Hunters in New Mexico's Unit 37 have highlighted the challenging conditions for both elk and antelope, emphasizing the importance of significant ground coverage and scouting. Elk are reportedly found in pockets, requiring persistence and mobility to locate and target them, as elk densities are low and sightings sparse, as noted by experienced hunters in the unit. Antelope hunters have also experienced difficulty, with low densities on public lands necessitating extensive scouting and possibly contributing to disappointing experiences despite diligent efforts. To improve success rates, hunters should focus on in-depth scouting, target isolated areas, and remain adaptable to the unique challenges presented by the unit's terrain and game behavior.
| species | general Size | trophy potential |
|---|---|---|
| Mule Deer | 140"-160" | 160"+ |
| Elk | 280"-320" | 330"+ |
| Antelope | 65"-75" | 75"+ |
High
Low
More than half of this unit is private land, mostly desert flatlands, while the biggest chunk of public land is Forest Service property that takes in some of the rugged Sacramento Mountains, the Tucsons, the Jicarilla Mountains and part of the Capitan Range. Elk live primarily in the mountains and foothills while most of the antelope occupy lowlands. Mule deer are present in the unit but densities are low deer are scattered.
Some of the biggest bull elk and antelope in New Mexico have come from this unit. Barbary sheep live in some rough terrain and in low numbers. The unit has lots of dense cover and thousands of acres of rugged land. The public land in this unit is not easy to hunt.
The chief mountain ranges are mostly rough with some sheer white cliffs and require cross country hiking, but many elk and deer hunters drive roads to find game and sometimes take remarkably big animals. The Jicarilla Mountains are nowhere near the Jicarilla Apache Indian Reservation, which is more than 200 miles to the northwest. Most of the unit is flat to rolling desert.
High elevations are mostly forested by Douglas firs, spruces, aspens and several kinds of pines. Middle elevations are covered by pinyon-juniper forests, brush and grass, while lower elevations are desert grasslands and foothills with desert scrub.
Most hunters camp by the sides of roads, which is allowed on virtually all federal land here. Ellis Store & Co. Bed and Breakfast in Lincoln is highly rated, and plenty of motels are in Capitan and Carrizozo.
Roughly 1,646 square miles
38.8% public land
Elevations from 4,300 - 10,200 feet
Public roads lead into the mountains, but hunters must hike to reach many places, including the Capitan Mountain Wilderness. Many trails lead into the wilderness. Much BLM and state land at low elevations is difficult to reach on public roads because most of the lower terrain is private.