At a Glance
2,550Square Miles
62.1%Public Land
4,000 - 7,800Elevation Range
This southern New Mexico unit is made up of mountains and valleys that stretch to the desert floor. From Hillsboro and north to Dusty, the elevations rise. Although not noted for large elk numbers, decent mule deer numbers can be found in this unit. Antelope can be found in the desert grasslands near Cuchillo and Monticello. There are also pockets of Coues whitetail in the southern portion of the unit.
This unit has produced several large mule deer bucks, but this area has low elk numbers. Better bucks are found in more remote mountains within the unit. Higher deer tag allocation means higher hunter traffic, but backpacking access gives opportunity to leave the crowds.
Quick Tips
- Typically an easier tag to draw for deer
- Noted as one of the best desert quail spots in the southwest
- Good javelina numbers
- Good fishing at nearby Elephant Butte and Caballo Reservoirs