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As we look forward to a new year of elk hunting in New Mexico, we hope many of you are also getting excited about next year’s hunting plans. No sooner does one season end, than planning for the next one begins! When it comes to planning a New Mexico elk hunt, from the license application and draw process to the trip itself, here are a few things you should know:

How and When to Apply for a New Mexico Elk License

There are two ways to obtain an elk-hunting license in New Mexico. The first is to draw a license in the annual draw. If unsuccessful in the draw, there is then the option to purchase a landowner tag.

We can begin submitting applications in the New Mexico license draw in mid-January. The deadline to apply is in mid-March each year. Hunters must apply during this window to have a chance at drawing an elk license and you must have a New Mexico Game and Fish account,

In New Mexico, 84% of the licenses are allocated to in-state residents. Only 6% are allocated to nonresidents. The remaining 10% are allocated specifically for guided hunters who apply with an outfitter. That means that when you apply with us, you have a far greater chance at drawing a coveted New Mexico elk tag than if you were to apply on your own.

For a more detailed look at how the draw works, see our previous article here.

In order to apply for a license as a guided hunter, we will need to have a signed contract and a deposit to hold your spot. For more information, check out our Book Your Hunt Page or simply give us a call at 315-374-8209.

With the application period opening in January and the deadline in March, that means it’s now time to begin planning your New Mexico elk hunt! Contact us to get started.

What Does A New Mexico Elk License Cost?

First, all hunters must purchase a New Mexico Game Hunting License. This is $65 for nonresidents. This is the prerequisite for all big game hunting in New Mexico.

In New Mexico there are two tiers of elk licenses. The standard elk license for a nonresident is $548. Quality and high demand licenses are $773 for nonresidents. Here at LOH Outfitters, we primarily hunt the latter units and seasons. Therefore, hunters can expect to draw an elk license at the $773 tier.

What Does A Guided Elk Hunt Cost?

We offer fully guided elk hunts that include 5-6 days of guided hunting, meals and accommodations. We offer a 2-on-1 guided option for pairs who wish to hunt together with a single guide. We also offer a 1-on-1 guided option. These two options are $5,949 and $8,949 respectively.

If you don’t draw a license in the annual draw, you may still have the option to purchase a landowner tag for elk. These licenses are very limited and in in high demand. So if you are interested, you’ll need to contact us early in the year to reserve your spot. For more information, please see our Elk Hunts Page.

Want to know more about the cost of a guided elk hunt in New Mexico or what goes into these costs? Please see our previous article on this subject.

Planning Your New Mexico Elk Hunt

With the application period open in mid-January and the final deadline in mid-March, it’s time to start planning your New Mexico elk hunt! This application window is brief, so let’s get started.

We can talk you through the options for your elk hunt – bow or rifle, as well as the different units and seasons. Based on your goals and desires for the hunt, we will make a strategic plan for your New Mexico elk application. Click here to learn more about our guided New Mexico elk hunts.

We can talk you through the options for your elk hunt – bow or rifle, as well as the different units and seasons. Based on your goals and desires for the hunt, we will make a strategic plan for your New Mexico elk application. Click here to learn more about our guided New Mexico elk hunts. To get started, please call or text us at (575) 517-6083. We can’t wait to help you plan an incredible elk hunting adventure!To get started, please call or text us at (575) 517-6083. We can’t wait to help you plan an incredible elk hunting adventure!