New Mexico is not a state talked about for its deer hunting, but over the last few years, it has been producing some great bucks in units that might not be as well known. With New Mexico being a random draw state and having some pretty good draw odds for areas that are producing great bucks, we believe it is a state you should definitely take a closer look at. The state offers mule deer and Coues deer hunts through a non-resident random draw. They also offer over-the-counter tags for private ranches. The state offers a ton of different hunt options and terrain for any type of hunter. From its rugged wilderness areas to low elevation sage flats and pinyon/juniper canyons, there are plenty of hunts to apply for no matter your preferred style of hunting.

Some of the southern units have been producing great bucks over the last few years and might be something for you to look into if you are wanting better odds for drawing a great deer hunt. Some of the southern units also offer tags that allow you to harvest either a mule deer or Coues deer. The eastern side of the state is more of an opportunity-type hunt with the deer population doing very well but trophy potential not being as high. That’s not to say if you draw a tag out east and hunt hard you won’t find a big mule deer buck.

For the most part, all of New Mexico's gun hunts will take place before the rut, so most of the hunts will require a lot of time behind glass looking over a lot of country. For the archery deer hunter, New Mexico offers some great rut hunts in January. All in all, both mule deer and Coues deer are doing very well in most areas of the state. If you are looking for a fun deer hunt this fall, then take a look at New Mexico.

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