New Mexico Hunting Season 2025-2026 – Dates, Licenses & Game Management Units
Planning your next outdoor adventure in the Land of Enchantment? You’ve come to the right place! This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about New Mexico’s 2025-2026 game calendar, from archery opener to late-season opportunities. Whether you’re a resident sportsman or visiting from out of state, we’ll walk you through permit requirements, GMU boundaries, weapon restrictions, and all the essential details to make your trip successful.
New Mexico offers some of the most diverse wildlife opportunities in the Southwest, with everything from trophy elk in high-country units to desert mule deer and javelina in the southern regions. The state’s tag system operates on both draw and over-the-counter availability, so understanding the application timeline is crucial for securing your preferred dates and areas.
📅 Quick Highlights
Before diving into the detailed schedules, here are the key dates every outdoor enthusiast should mark on their calendar:
Major Application Deadlines:
- Big Game Draw Applications: March 19, 2025
- Turkey Draw Applications: February 12, 2025
- Over-the-counter licenses available starting August 1, 2025
Peak Activity Periods:
- Archery opener: September 1, 2025 (most species)
- General rifle opener: October-November (varies by unit)
- Turkey spring gobbler period: April 15 – May 15, 2025
- Migratory bird activities: September through January
Youth Opportunities:
Most species offer special youth-only periods with extended dates and reduced competition. These mentored programs are excellent for introducing young hunters to ethical outdoor traditions.
Big Game Overview
New Mexico’s big game program centers around a lottery system for premium units, while some areas remain available through over-the-counter sales. The state manages wildlife through Game Management Units (GMUs), each with specific regulations and bag limits.
| Species | Season Type | Dates | Weapon Type | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mule Deer | Archery | Sept 1-30, 2025 | Bow only | Most GMUs |
| First Rifle | Oct 11-15, 2025 | Any legal firearm | Units 6A, 6C, 7, 10 | |
| Second Rifle | Oct 18-22, 2025 | Any legal firearm | Unit 34 | |
| Muzzleloader | Oct 18 – Dec 31, 2025 | Muzzleloader only | Units 13, 15, 17 | |
| Elk | Archery | Sept 1-30, 2025 | Bow only | Statewide |
| First Rifle | Oct 11-15, 2025 | Any legal firearm | Units 6A, 6C, 7, 10, 16E, 36, 23, 24, 45, 48, 52, 53 | |
| Second Rifle | Oct 18-22, 2025 | Any legal firearm | Unit 34 | |
| Extended Muzzleloader | Oct 18 – Dec 31, 2025 | Muzzleloader only | Units 13, 15, 17 | |
| Black Bear | Spring | April 1 – May 31, 2025 | Any legal method | Draw tags required |
| Fall | Sept 1 – Dec 15, 2025 | Any legal method | Coincides with other seasons |
The draw system requires purchasing a base game license before applying for premium tags. Success rates vary dramatically between units, with some trophy areas seeing less than 5% draw odds for nonresidents.
Turkey Dates
Turkey opportunities in New Mexico are split between spring gobbler periods and fall either-sex periods. The spring period offers the classic calling experience during peak breeding activity, while fall provides family group scenarios.
| Season Type | Dates | Weapon Method | Bag Limit | Application Required |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Spring OTC | April 15 – May 15, 2025 | Shotgun, archery, crossbow | 2 bearded birds | No |
| Youth Spring | April 11-13, 2025 | Shotgun, archery, crossbow | 1 bearded bird | No |
| Fall OTC | Sept 1-30, 2025 | Shotgun, archery, crossbow | 2 birds, either sex | No |
| Draw Periods | Various dates March-May | Shotgun, archery, crossbow | 1-2 birds (varies) | Yes – Feb 12 deadline |
Spring over-the-counter opportunities provide excellent access for both residents and nonresidents. The youth-only period allows hunters under 18 to participate with reduced competition and extended mentoring opportunities.
Draw permits are available for specific GMUs with limited access or enhanced success rates. These areas often feature less hunting pressure and higher bird densities, making them attractive for serious turkey enthusiasts.
Furbearer Opportunities
New Mexico’s furbearer program operates year-round for most species, providing excellent opportunities for predator control and pelt harvest. No special permits are required beyond the base game license for most species.
| Species | Season Dates | Method | Daily Bag | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Coyote | Year-round | Any legal method | No limit | No license required on private land |
| Bobcat | Nov 1, 2025 – March 31, 2026 | Any legal method | No limit | Pelt tag required |
| Fox (Gray/Kit) | Nov 1, 2025 – March 31, 2026 | Any legal method | No limit | Game license required |
| Raccoon | Nov 1, 2025 – March 31, 2026 | Any legal method | No limit | Game license required |
| Skunk | Year-round | Any legal method | No limit | Game license required |
| Ringtail | Nov 1, 2025 – March 31, 2026 | Trap only | No limit | Game license required |
Coyote activities receive special attention due to their impact on game species. Many ranchers welcome responsible predator management, providing access to private lands where public opportunities are limited.
Bobcat pelts must be tagged and sealed within five days of harvest. The state maintains specific regulations for international export of bobcat pelts under CITES requirements.
Small Game Section
Small game provides year-round opportunities across New Mexico’s diverse ecosystems. These activities require minimal investment while offering excellent training for new hunters and skill maintenance for experienced outdoorsmen.
| Species | Season Dates | Daily Bag | Possession Limit | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cottontail Rabbit | July 1, 2025 – March 31, 2026 | 8 | 24 | Statewide |
| Jackrabbit | Year-round | No limit | No limit | No license required |
| Tree Squirrel | May 15 – Sept 30, 2025 | 4 | 12 | Tassel-eared and red squirrel |
| Ground Squirrel | Year-round | No limit | No limit | No license required |
| Gambel’s Quail | Nov 15, 2025 – Feb 15, 2026 | 15 | 30 | Most productive in desert areas |
| Scaled Quail | Nov 15, 2025 – Feb 15, 2026 | 15 | 30 | Eastern plains and foothills |
| Mourning Dove | Sept 1 – Oct 28, 2025; Dec 1, 2025 – Jan 1, 2026 | 15 | 30 | Federal regulations apply |
Quail populations fluctuate with annual precipitation patterns. Wet years produce exceptional broods, while drought conditions can severely impact bird numbers. Check local precipitation data and recent scouting reports before planning extended trips.
Small mammals like rabbits and squirrels provide excellent training opportunities for young hunters. Their abundant populations and extended periods allow flexibility in scheduling family outings.
Complete Waterfowl Seasons
Waterfowl activities in New Mexico follow federal frameworks established by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. The state coordinates with surrounding regions to provide consistent migration period opportunities.
| Species Group | Season Dates | Daily Bag | Possession Limit | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ducks (Regular) | Nov 2, 2025 – Jan 26, 2026 | 6 | 18 | Species-specific limits apply |
| Mallard Hens | Nov 2, 2025 – Jan 26, 2026 | 2 | 6 | Part of regular duck bag |
| Pintail | Nov 2, 2025 – Jan 26, 2026 | 1 | 3 | Part of regular duck bag |
| Canvasback | Nov 2, 2025 – Jan 26, 2026 | 1 | 3 | Part of regular duck bag |
| Geese (Light) | Nov 2, 2025 – Jan 26, 2026 | 3 | 9 | Snow and Ross’s geese |
| Geese (Dark) | Nov 2, 2025 – Jan 26, 2026 | 2 | 6 | Canada and white-fronted |
| Sandhill Crane | Nov 9, 2025 – Feb 2, 2026 | 3 | 9 | Special permit required |
Federal stamps and state waterfowl validation are required for all migratory bird activities. HIP (Harvest Information Program) registration is mandatory and must be completed before first participation.
New Mexico participates in the Light Goose Conservation Order, allowing extended opportunities for snow and Ross’s geese outside regular periods. Electronic calls and unplugged shotguns are permitted during conservation order dates.
Other Available Game
New Mexico offers several unique opportunities not found in many other states. These specialized activities add diversity to the annual outdoor calendar and provide distinct challenges for experienced hunters.
| Species | Season Dates | Method | Bag Limit | Special Requirements |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Javelina | Various draw periods | Any legal method | 1 | Draw tag required |
| Oryx | Year-round (with permit) | Any legal method | 1 | Draw tag required |
| Ibex | Various draw periods | Any legal method | 1 | Draw tag required |
| Barbary Sheep | Various draw periods | Any legal method | 1 or 2 (varies) | Draw tag required |
| Bighorn Sheep | Various draw periods | Any legal method | 1 | Draw tag required |
| Cougar | Year-round | Any legal method | 2 | Special regulations apply |
| Prairie Dog | Year-round | Any legal method | No limit | Private land permission required |
Exotic species like oryx and ibex were introduced decades ago and now provide unique opportunities found nowhere else in North America. These animals adapted well to New Mexico’s arid conditions and offer challenging pursuits for serious hunters.
Cougar activities require special attention to regulations, as the state maintains specific quotas and areas. Check current status before planning trips, as areas may close when quotas are reached.
Hunting Zones and Public Access
New Mexico divides wildlife management into numbered Game Management Units (GMUs), each with specific regulations, access points, and habitat characteristics. Understanding unit boundaries is essential for legal compliance and trip planning success.
Key Mapping Resources:
- Official GMU Map (PDF)
- Interactive online mapping system
- Mobile applications with offline capability
- Printed maps available at license vendors
Public Land Access:
- National Forest: Extensive access across mountainous regions
- Bureau of Land Management: Desert and plains areas
- State Game Commission Lands: Managed specifically for wildlife
- State Trust Lands: Limited access, permit required
- Open Gate Program: Private lands open to public use
The Open Gate Program provides access to over 2 million acres of private lands through cooperative agreements between landowners and the state. Participants must follow specific rules and respect property boundaries.
Unlike Colorado hunting seasons which rely heavily on wilderness areas, New Mexico offers substantial desert and plains opportunities that remain accessible throughout winter months.
Permits, Tags & License Details
New Mexico’s license structure accommodates various user groups with specific pricing and requirements. Understanding the fee schedule and application process is crucial for budget planning and legal compliance.
| License Type | Resident Fee | Non-Resident Fee | Youth Fee (Under 18) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Game License | $15 | $65 | $5 | Required for all activities |
| Combination Game/Fish | $25 | Not available | $10 | Resident convenience option |
| Temporary Game (4-day) | Not available | $85 | Not available | Short-term visitors |
| Habitat Stamp | $5 | $5 | $5 | Required for certain areas |
| Waterfowl Validation | $15 | $15 | $5 | Migratory birds only |
| Federal Duck Stamp | $25 | $25 | $25 | Required for waterfowl |
Big Game Tag Fees (Draw System):
| Species | Resident | Non-Resident | Quality vs. Opportunity |
|---|---|---|---|
| Elk | $290 | $773 | Premium units require draw |
| Deer | $75 | $368 | Some OTC availability |
| Antelope | $75 | $283 | Limited draw opportunities |
| Bear | $150 | $460 | Spring and fall periods |
| Oryx | $250 | $1,710 | Unique to New Mexico |
| Ibex | $103 | $1,610 | Mountain species |
| Bighorn Sheep | $250 | $2,410 | Once-in-a-lifetime |
Military and Disability Discounts:
- Active duty military: 50% discount on all fees
- 100% disabled veterans: Free lifetime combination license
- Disabled hunters: Reduced fees and special accommodations
- Senior citizens (65+): Reduced license fees
Application fees are non-refundable and range from $7 (residents) to $13 (non-residents) per species. Successful applicants must purchase the appropriate license and tag to validate their permit.
New Mexico Hunting Quick FAQ
Q: Can I buy licenses online?
A: Yes, New Mexico offers online license sales through their official website. You can also purchase by phone (888-248-6866) or from authorized vendors statewide.
Q: Do I need special education or certification?
A: Hunter education certification is required for all first-time license purchasers born after January 1, 1971. Bowhunter education is recommended but not mandatory.
Q: Can non-residents participate in over-the-counter opportunities?
A: Absolutely! Many species including turkey, small game, and some deer units remain available without draw applications. Non-resident fees are higher but provide immediate access to activities.
Q: How do draw odds work in New Mexico?
A: The state operates a true lottery system with preference points for unsuccessful applicants. Each year of unsuccessful application adds one point, slightly improving future odds. Some species offer up to three choices per application.
Q: Are there special accommodations for disabled hunters?
A: New Mexico provides various accommodations including reduced-mobility permits, modified weapon allowances, and accessible area designations. Contact the Department of Game and Fish for specific requirements.
Q: What happens if I harvest an animal outside my designated unit?
A: This constitutes a serious violation with potential criminal charges, license revocation, and civil penalties. Always verify unit boundaries using official maps and GPS coordinates.
Q: Can I hunt on private land without permission?
A: No, trespassing laws apply to all private property. Always obtain written permission and respect landowner requirements. The Open Gate Program provides legal access to participating private lands.
Related Resources and External Links
Official Government Resources:
- New Mexico Department of Game and Fish
- Federal Migratory Bird Permits
- New Mexico State Parks
- Bureau of Land Management – New Mexico
Maps and Planning Tools:
Education and Safety:
Conclusion
New Mexico’s 2025-2026 game calendar offers something for every outdoor enthusiast, from world-class elk opportunities in high-mountain units to excellent small game activities across diverse ecosystems. The state’s combination of draw and over-the-counter availability ensures access regardless of experience level or budget constraints.
Remember that regulations can change throughout the year, and unit-specific details may vary from this general overview. Always verify current information through official sources before making final plans. Purchase licenses early, especially for popular over-the-counter periods, as some opportunities have limited availability.
The Land of Enchantment continues to provide exceptional wildlife experiences for those willing to invest time in proper preparation and respect for the resource. Whether you’re pursuing your first deer or chasing a once-in-a-lifetime sheep tag, New Mexico’s diverse landscapes and abundant wildlife create memories that last forever.
Start planning now, submit applications before deadlines, and prepare for an unforgettable outdoor adventure in one of America’s premier destinations. The wide open spaces and abundant opportunities are waiting for you to explore them responsibly and ethically.
