How to Hunt in the Guadalupe Mountains in New Mexico

The Guadalupe Mountains region of southeastern New Mexico contains a beautiful mix of rocky peaks, colorful caves and plentiful wildlife. While hunting is prohibited in the nearby national park, licensed sportsmen can go after Guadalupe game such as deer, pronghorns, elk and turkey on private lands. Hunters, of course, must obey local and state regulations when active in the field or New Mexico enforcement authorities will pursue poaching fines of up to $10,000 against violators.

Instructions

    • 1

      Obtain a proper license from the New Mexico Department of Game and Fish. An online application is available at: onlinesales.wildlife.state.nm.us/. In New Mexico, a hunter may be licensed for only one big-game species per year, according to state law.

    • 2

      Research the best times of year to go after the animal of your choice. Resources such as the New Mexico Outdoor Sports Guide track the quality of hunting and the quantity of animals and fowl in particular regions.

    • 3

      Confirm hunting is allowable in the location you have selected. In southeastern New Mexico, thousands of acres are owned by the federal Bureau of Land Management, but that doesn't necessarily mean hunting is not allowed. If hunting on public land, check with rangers or local authorities; if on private land, seek approval from the landowner.

    • 4

      Track your game and practice firearm safety while active. Remember, you may not be the only hunter in a given area, so be sure an in-season animal or bird is in your sights before firing.