New Mexico offers a variety of hunting opportunities, but it's important for hunters to stay informed about key regulations and dates to ensure a successful and responsible hunting experience. Whether you're after big game, upland birds, or migratory game, New Mexico's hunting guidelines are designed to maintain wildlife conservation while providing sustainable opportunities for hunters.
Hunting Programs and Regulations
New Mexico supports several hunting programs aimed at wildlife conservation and access to private lands, such as the Open Gate Program, which gives hunters access to private property for hunting. Key regulations apply to high-demand species like deer, elk, pronghorn, bighorn sheep, and Barbary sheep, as well as ibex. These regulations include hunting seasons, tag availability, and specific methods allowed, ensuring responsible hunting practices.
Below are lists of important dates to keep in mind for the 2025 - 2026 hunting season!
2025 - 2026 Important Dates
Feb. 12: Deadline to apply for Bear and Turkey Draw Permits
Feb. 15: Deadline to submit 2024–25 harvest reports for deer, elk, pronghorn, and turkey
Feb. 19: Results for Bear and Turkey Draw Permits available
Mar. 19: Deadline to apply for draw licenses for species like Barbary sheep, bighorn sheep, deer, elk, ibex, javelina, pronghorn, and oryx
Mar. 19: Deadline to submit late 2024–25 harvest reports for deer, elk, pronghorn, and turkey
Mar. 24: 2025–26 over-the-counter (OTC) license types available
April 1: 2025–26 license year begins
April 7: Deadline to submit 2024–25 harvest reports for Barbary Sheep, Ibex, Javelina, Oryx, and Trapper License holders
April 23: Big-game draw results available
Aug. 13: Deadline to apply for Pheasant and Sandhill Crane Draw Permits
Aug. 20: Results for Pheasant and Sandhill Crane Draw Permits available
Species Specific Dates
Barbary Sheep
Any Legal Sporting Arm: Dec. 15-21, 2025; Jan. 20-26, 2026; Feb. 1-7, 2026; Feb. 12-18, 2026; Feb. 21-27, 2026
Bow: Jan. 1-15, 2026
Oryx
Once-in-a-Lifetime Hunts: Sep. 5-7, 2025; Sep. 19-21, 2025; Oct. 31-Nov. 2, 2025; Nov. 28-30, 2025; Jan. 9-11, 2026; Jan. 23-25, 2026; Feb. 6-8, 2026; Feb. 20-22, 2026; Mar. 6-8, 2026
Turkey
Spring OTC License Hunts: April 15-May 15, 2025
Youth-Only Spring OTC License Hunt: April 11-13, 2025
Fall OTC License Hunts: Sept. 1-30, 2025 (bow only); Nov. 1-30, 2025 (shotgun, bow, or crossbow)
Javelina
Draw Hunts: Jan. 1-31, 2026 (Bow – Units 19, 23-27); Feb. 1-Mar. 31, 2026 (Any Legal – Statewide except GMU 28 / Youth Only); Dec. 27-28, 2025 (Any Legal – Unit 28 McGregor Range / Military Only)
Bear
OTC Seasons: Aug. 16-31, 2025; Sept. 1-24, 2025 (Bow Only); Sept. 25-Nov. 15, 2025 (Any Legal); Sept. 25-Dec. 15, 2025 (Any Legal for certain zones)
Cougar
Statewide Season: April 1, 2025 – March 31, 2026
Upland Game
Quail: Nov. 15, 2025 – Feb. 15, 2026
Dusky (Blue) Grouse: Sept. 1 – Dec. 31, 2025
Squirrel: Sept. 1 – Dec. 31, 2025
Pheasant: Dec. 11-14, 2025
Eurasian Collared-Dove: April 1, 2025 – March 31, 2026
Migratory Game Birds
Dove and Band-Tailed Pigeon Seasons: Specific dates to be checked in the Migratory Game Bird Supplement (available in summer)
Sandhill Crane
Draw Permits: Applications must be submitted by Aug. 13, 2025, before 5 p.m. MDT
Hunting Requirements and Regulations
In New Mexico, hunters need to apply for either over-the-counter or draw hunt licenses depending on the species. Special provisions are in place for juniors, seniors, disabled individuals, and military personnel and veterans to receive special licenses or discounts.
Hunters are required to use legal sporting arms and adhere to state guidelines for tagging and reporting harvests. For hunting on federal lands, state trust lands, or wildlife management areas, it's important to verify specific restrictions for each area.
Programs for Youth and Mentorship
New Mexico’s Mentor-Youth Hunter Program connects experienced hunters with young or new hunters to help them gain skills and practice ethical hunting. Additionally, Hunter Education and Furbearer Education programs ensure that all hunters are knowledgeable about safe and responsible hunting practices.
By staying informed about these dates and regulations, New Mexico hunters can ensure they’re ready for the 2025-2026 season and contribute to the state's conservation efforts. Whether you're a first-time hunter or a seasoned pro, these rules and deadlines are essential for a safe and enjoyable hunting experience.
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