Field Guide / State Hunting Guide
The Guide to the New Mexico Hunting Seasons 2026
The name of the game in New Mexico is "big game." However, that's not to say you can't also have a field day tagging out with waterfowl, upland game birds, turkey, and small game, too.
New Mexico has a little (or big) something for every hunter. If hunting in the Land of Enchantment is on your agenda this year, you'll need to plan carefully to bring home everything you plan to hunt.
We're here to help! In this guide, we've pulled together everything you need to know about season dates, bag limits, and hunting licenses. We'll also help you find the best private and public lands to hunt game—big or small.
Updated February 11, 2026
Why Do Hunters Hunt in New Mexico?
Abundant opportunities and diverse terrain are two of the primary reasons hunters love to hunt in New Mexico. You can go after mule deer, pronghorn, grouse, deer, and even the ibex when hunting in this state.
Even with the allure of rare and big game, there's no shortage of opportunities to go after more traditional game like wild turkey and waterfowl.
So, whether you live in New Mexico or have an out-of-state hunt planned with travel to this spectacular state this year, it's an excellent place for a hunt.
Where Should I Hunt?
Depending on what and when you plan to hunt, you'll experience New Mexico's plains or the heights of the Rocky Mountains. So, make sure you're prepared for the terrain or the potential for dry plains when planning for your hunt.
Hunters can also hunt federal, state, Native American, and private lands, depending on the season. The state's Open Gate program allows more access to private lands through partnerships with landowners.
With the HuntWise hunting app, you can scout the land and understand boundaries to find the best places (and permissions) for your hunt. Our map layers help you visualize New Mexico's varying terrain, from the mountains to the plateaus in the north-central part of the state.
When Can I Hunt?
Let's start planning your hunting year!
Note that the information we provide in this guide is the latest available from the New Mexico Game & Fish department (NMGF). We'll update this guide with the latest season information as new details become available.
While our guide is an excellent resource for planning your season, we also recommend checking official resources for the latest hunting season dates.
Deer Hunting Season in New MexicoPrivate Land Hunts (Units 8, 46, 55A, and 55B)
| New Mexico Elk SeasonPrimary Management Zone Seasons
|
PronghornPrivate Land Hunts
| Bighorn SheepDates vary based on GMU, the species (Rocky Mountain vs Desert Bighorn), and the allowed gender of sheep you hunt. Big-Game Sporting Arms
Rocky Mountain Bighorn Ewe
Desert Bighorn Ram
|
IbexDraw Licenses
| Barbery SheepDraw Hunts
Over-the-Counter Any Legal: April 1, 2026 – Marh 31, 2027
|
BearOver-the-Counter Seasons
| TurkeySpring
|
Migratory Game BirdsWe'll update the dates for 2025-2026 when they're released by the State of New Mexico this summer. Central Flyway Seasons
| Upland Game
|
CougarApril 1, 2025 – March 31, 2026 and April 1, 2026 – March 31, 2027 | JavelinaDraw Hunts
|
Furbearers (Trapping)
Remember to following all rules and regulations when trapping live animals. | CoyoteNo closed season. |
Note that Gray Wolves are federally protected and cannot be hunted in New Mexico.
What Do I Need to Know About New Mexico Hunting Regulations?
All hunters under the age of 18 who plan to hunt with a firearm must pass a hunter education course, either online or an in-person course. Once completed, you can get your hunting license for the game you plan to hunt.
Hunters can purchase licenses online.
However, even with a license, you may need to also win a tag through the draw system for the game you plan to hunt. Pay close attention to the application dates and draw deadlines so you don't miss your chance to hunt one of the species you have your eye on. Check the NMGF website for details.
What are the Bag Limits?
How many ibex, mule deer, or javelina can you bring home this year? To comply with New Mexico hunting regulations, make sure you know the bag limits for every animal you plan to hunt.
Check out the overview below.
| Deer | Varies based on when and where you hunt. Check the NMGF hunting guide for details. | Pidgeon | 2 per day (6 in possession) |
| Elk | Varies based on when and where you hunt. Check the NMGF hunting guide for details. | Sandhill Crane | 3 per day (6 in possession) |
| Pronghorn | Varies based on when and where you hunt. Check the NMGF hunting guide for details. | Ducks | Central Flyway 6 per day singly or in aggregate (3x daily limit in possession) Pacific Flyway 7 per day in aggregate (3x daily bag limit) |
| Bighorn Sheep | Ram or ewe based on your hunting license | Coot | 15 per day (45 in possession) |
| Barbery Sheep | Male or female sheep based on your huntinng license | September Teal | 6 per day singly or in aggregate (18 in possession) |
| Ibex | Varies based on when and where you hunt. Check the NMGF hunting guide for details. | Gallinules | 1 per day (3 in possession) |
| Turkey | 1-2 bearded (spring), any 1 turkey (fall) | Rails | Central Flyway 10 singly or in aggregate (20 in possession) Pacific Flyway (25 singly or in aggregate (75 in possession) |
| Bear | 1 bear | Snipe | 8 per day (24 in possession) |
| Cougar | Total limits or female limits based on hunting zones | Dark Goose | 5 per day (15 in possession) MRGV 2 per day (2 per season Canada & white-fronted goose) |
| Quail | 15 per day (30 in possession) | Light Goose | Central Flyway 50 per day (no possession limit), No limit (Conservation Order) Pacific Flyway 20 per day (60 in possession) |
| Grouse | 3 per day (6 in possession) North Zone, 1 per day (2 in possession) South Zone | Canada Goose & Brant | 5 per day (15 in possession) |
| Squirrel (Albert's, Red, Gray, Fox) | 8 per day singly or in aggregate (16 in possession) | White-fronted Goose | 10 per day (30 in possession) |
| Pheasant | 3 males per day (6 in possession) | Scaup | 8 per day (24 in possession) |
| Dove (Eurasian Collared) | Unlimited | Javelina | 1 either-sex |
| Dove (Mourning and White-Winged) | 15 singly or in aggregate per day (45 in possession) |
What Else Do I Need Before I Can Hunt?
In addition to understanding the New Mexico hunting season dates, you need the right gear for successful hunts!
Successful hunts—including big game hunts—require gear like a good hunting knife, the right clothing (depending on the season), a solid pair of binoculars or a scope, and a good rifle or bow.
Remember: As you get geared up for your hunt, take advantage of the gear discounts you can use with our HuntWise partners. From odor control to optics and clothing, HuntWise hunting app users can save hundreds on gear.
Let HuntWise Guide You to Success During the New Mexico Hunting Seasons
We try to make it easier for you to hunt and tag out every year. So, we hope the information we compiled in this guide helps you plan your hunts in New Mexico this season! Remember also to consult official resources when finalizing your plans to catch any changes in dates or details.
Do you know what else do you need for success? The HuntWise hunting app! It's the best tool for hunters to scout and plan a hunt before heading out. With our 3-D mapping, layers, markers, and more, you gain an advantage over other hunters. You can also experience a more efficient (and successful) day in the field.
Plus, Elite subscribers get access to more tools in the app, including up to 15 days of animal activity and weather forecasting.
Download the app and start your free trial. You'll be ready for opening day!
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