Considering applying in New Mexico this year? This article and video outlines what you need to know before you apply
Application Deadline: March 19, 2025, at 5:00 PM MST
Looking to hunt elk, mule deer, bighorn sheep, or exotic species like oryx and ibex in New Mexico? This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about the New Mexico big game draw system, hunting regulations, application fees, and tips to improve your odds of drawing a tag. Having an Insider membership makes doing all of your hunting research a breeze. Be sure to check out our Application Strategy articles that will explain everything in more detail.
Insider makes it easy to find tag opportunities by state, species, probability of draw odds success, and much more! Whether you're new to the application system or have been at it for decades, Insider gives you the information you need to plan a successful hunt. In addition to our research tools, all Insiders have access to GOHUNT Maps on the web and mobile app. In addition to all these benefits, you can access our Insider research tools on our mobile app! It's the only complete and full package set of tools to help you find the hunt you want this year or to help you plan for hunts in the future.
If you're unfamiliar with Insider, check out the link below.
Applying for a hunting tag in New Mexico is straightforward but requires planning.
Best Option – Apply Online:
Phone Application Option:
New Mexico offers some of the best hunting in the U.S., with high success rates and trophy potential.
Tip: Bighorn sheep and ibex tags are rare but worth applying for if you’re up for the challenge.
New Mexico classifies hunts into three pricing tiers:
Strategy Tip: If you're chasing trophy bulls, go for quality or high-demand hunts—they cost more but provide a better experience.
Unlike other Western states like Colorado, Utah, or Wyoming, New Mexico has NO preference points or bonus points. Everyone has an equal chance every year.
You get up to five hunt choices, but only the first three really count.
Completely random allocation – No point system means new applicants have the same odds as veteran hunters.
Draw Odds in New Mexico Depend on Your Pool:
Pro Tip: If you're a nonresident, applying in the guided pool significantly increases your odds.
Short answer: No.
Best Practice: Apply individually for better odds unless you only want to hunt with a partner.
Standard elk tags have reasonable odds, but quality and high-demand hunts are much harder to draw—especially for nonresidents.
No! New Mexico’s draw is 100% random. This makes it one of the best states for new hunters to apply in.
Yes! You can apply for elk, deer, antelope, ibex, oryx, aoudad, and bighorn sheep all in the same year.
The application fee is $13 per species, but you must pay for your tag upfront. If unsuccessful, you get a refund (except for the application and hunting license fees).
Units 16A, 16D, 34, and 36 are known for trophy bulls, but competition is high.
New Mexico offers some of the best big game hunts in the country. Apply early, plan your choices, and increase your chances of drawing a once-in-a-lifetime tag!
Have questions? Drop them in the comments below!
Ensures accuracy and allows you to control your hunt choices.
Faster and more efficient than phone applications.
Apply online here.
Available but not recommended due to potential errors.
$65 non-refundable hunting license (required for all applicants).
$13 per species application fee.
Upfront Tag Fees:
Elk hunting in New Mexico – High-quality bulls, strong rut activity.
Mule deer and Coues deer – Both species available under one application.
Antelope – Great opportunity for a DIY hunt.
Bighorn Sheep (Rocky & Desert) – Extremely limited nonresident tags.
Oryx Hunts – Unique desert experience.
Ibex Hunts – One of the most challenging mountain hunts in North America.
Barbary Sheep (Aoudad) – Fantastic alternative to bighorn sheep.
Standard Hunts: More available, lower cost ($535 for elk).
Quality/High Demand Hunts: Managed for trophy animals ($760 for elk).
High-Demand Hunts: Most popular, higher competition and cost.
Residents: 84% of tags.
Guided Pool: 10% of tags (better odds but requires hiring a guide).
Nonresidents: Only 6% of tags available – Highly competitive!
You can apply as a group (up to four for elk, deer, and antelope).
Applying with a resident does NOT increase your odds.
If there aren’t enough tags for all group members, your application gets rejected.
Hunter Education is required for all applicants.
Youth Hunts: Special tags are available for kids under 18.
Minimum Age Requirement: Kids under nine cannot apply unless they take New Mexico’s online hunter education course.
World-Class Elk Hunting – High success rates, strong rut, and diverse season options.
Unique Public Land Hunts – Where else can you hunt oryx, ibex, and aoudad on public land?
No Bonus or Preference Points System – New applicants have the same chance as hunters who have been applying every year.
Flexible Application Strategy – Apply smart to maximize your odds.
Apply Early – Don’t wait until the last minute!
Prioritize Your Hunt Choices – Your first three choices matter the most.
Consider the Guided Pool – Better odds for nonresidents.
Check Your Budget – Be prepared to front the cost of tags upfront.
Research Draw Odds – Look at past success rates before applying.
You must pay for tags upfront—if unsuccessful, your money (except app and species fees) is refunded.
Applying for multiple species? Expect to front thousands of dollars.
