At a Glance
139Square Miles
99.9%Public Land
8,400 - 9,000Elevation Range
Quick Tips
- Scout before the season
- Try not to shoot the first sub-300 six-point bull you see
- Do not pass up 320” bulls
Hunters in Unit 6B, New Mexico, highlight a mixed yet insightful experience with its diverse terrain, from open meadows to rugged, dense forests. They emphasize the importance of understanding elk patterns, particularly their movement in response to seasonal changes and hunting pressure. Some hunters suggest that the unit can be challenging due to varying elevation and access routes, advocating for preparation and scouting to improve chances of success. Overall, the consensus is that while this unit may present difficulties, it offers rewarding opportunities for well-prepared and knowledgeable hunters.
Formerly the private Baca Ranch owned by a family from Texas, Valles Caldera National Preserve comprises Unit 6B and is one of the best public areas for hunting mature bull elk. Since it is a Preserve permits were formerly drawn through a different lottery process, but as of 2017 and continuing into future years, all permits will be allocated through the State draw. Hunters may apply for permits through the regular state permit lottery.
Only elk and Merriam turkeys are hunted on the preserve, with 2,500-3,000 elk living in this area. No deer or bear hunting is allowed here. Hunters can apply once for each hunt code.