New Mexico Bow Hunting: Desert Elk & Mule Deer
📅 2026 Season & License Info
Archery Season Open
August 23
Archery Season Close
September 22
Min Draw Weight
35 lbs
Resident License
$25/yr + tags
Non-Resident License
$65/yr + tags
Top Species
Elk, Mule Deer, Pronghorn, Oryx, Javelina
📍 Top Public Hunting Spots
Gila National Forest
Elk, Mule Deer, Bear, Javelina
SW New Mexico. Gila Wilderness is the nation's first designated wilderness. World-class elk.
Carson National Forest
Elk, Mule Deer, Bear, Turkey
Northern NM near Taos. Unit 2B produces exceptional archery elk. Excellent road access.
White Sands Missile Range
Oryx (Gemsbok)
Unique lottery hunts for non-native oryx introduced in the 1970s — now 3,000+ animals.
⚖️ New Mexico Archery Regulations
- •Minimum draw weight: 35 lbs
- •Most big game requires draw — some OTC mule deer units available
- •Oryx hunting available through special draw
- •Javelina year-round on private land with license
💡 Expert Tips for New Mexico
- →New Mexico's Unit 2B (north of Taos) produces exceptional archery elk — draw required but worth it
- →Oryx (gemsbok) hunting on White Sands is a unique North American bowhunting experience
- →September archery elk season overlaps with water hole hunting opportunities in arid terrain
- →Mule deer in the San Andres Mountains can be spotted and stalked on open terrain
🏛️ Official Wildlife Agency & Sources
Hunting seasons, tag quotas, and bag limits are established by state wildlife agencies and change annually. For official regulations, proclamations, and license purchases, consult:
New Mexico Department of Game and Fish (NMDGF)
Official State Wildlife Agency
Status: 2026 Season Guide