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Compound Bow Hunting in New Mexico — Desert Elk, Mule Deer & Oryx

ElkMule DeerPronghornOryxJavelina

📅 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

3,300,000 acres

Elk, Mule Deer, Bear, Javelina

SW New Mexico. Gila Wilderness is the nation's first designated wilderness. World-class elk.

Carson National Forest

1,500,000 acres

Elk, Mule Deer, Bear, Turkey

Northern NM near Taos. Unit 2B produces exceptional archery elk. Excellent road access.

White Sands Missile Range

Special access acres

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
⚠️ Regulation Disclaimer: Hunting regulations change annually. Always verify current season dates, bag limits, and equipment requirements with the New Mexico state wildlife agency before hunting. This information is for planning purposes only.