Elk Hunts
Unit 52 Elk Hunts
Unit 52 in New Mexico is a popular hunting area located in the San Juan Mountains and surrounding public and private lands. Known for its rugged terrain, dense forests, and high elevation, it offers great opportunities for elk hunters. Here's a summary of key points about hunting elk in this unit:
1. Location and Terrain
Unit 52 is located in northcentral New Mexico, encompassing parts of the Carson National Forest and nearby private lands.
The area features diverse landscapes, including mountainous regions, deep canyons, and meadows, which provide ideal elk habitat.
2. Elk Populations
Unit 52 is known for having healthy elk populations, with both mule deer and rocky mountain elk found in the area.
The region is renowned for producing bulls.
3. Hunting Seasons
The elk hunting season in Unit 52 generally includes both archery and rifle seasons.
Archery season is typically in September, while rifle hunts occur in October and November.
4. Public and Private Land Access
The unit contains both public lands (such as parts of the Carson National Forest) and private lands where landowner tags may be available.
5. Challenges and Opportunities
Terrain can be difficult with steep slopes and thick forests, requiring hunters to be prepared for challenging conditions, although the unit provides terrain that is favorable to those that may not have the ability to hunt the rougher areas.
Hunters should be prepared for varying weather, especially as the season progresses into fall.
Success rates in Unit 52 are generally favorable for elk, especially for those who know the terrain or work with experienced outfitters.
6. Landowner Tags and Outfitters
Landowner tags provide hunters an opportunity to hunt on private land within Unit 52, often offering better odds of success.
Outfitters in the area can help secure landowner tags and provide expert guidance, increasing the likelihood of a successful hunt.
Conclusion
Hunting elk in Unit 52 of New Mexico offers a great mix of trophy potential, diverse terrain, and relatively high elk populations. It is an excellent choice for both experienced hunters looking for a challenging adventure and for those seeking a guided hunt with better odds of success.
Tentative 2025 Hunt Dates
Bull Elk
Bow Sep 1-14
Bow Sep 15-24
Muzzle -Oct 4-8
Rifle Oct 11-15
Rifle Oct 18-22
Cow Elk
Muzzle – Oct 4-8
Rifle – Nov. 15-19
Rifle – Dec. 6-10
Unit 51 Elk Hunts
Unit 51 in New Mexico is a highly regarded hunting area, known for its abundant elk populations and diverse terrain. Located in the northern part of the state, the unit includes a mix of public lands and private ranches, offering opportunities for both experienced and novice hunters.
1. Location and Terrain
Unit 51 is located in northern New Mexico, encompassing parts of the Carson National Forest and surrounding areas.
The terrain includes mountainous landscapes, dense forests, and open meadows, providing ideal habitats for elk. The higher elevation areas can be rugged, with steep slopes and dense vegetation.
2. Elk Populations
Unit 51 is known for its healthy and stable elk populations, including both mule deer and rocky mountain elk.
The unit produces often 250 – 300 class bulls, and hunting here is highly sought after, making it one of New Mexico’s top elk hunting destinations.
3. Hunting Seasons
Unit 51 offers both archery and rifle hunting seasons, with archery hunts typically occurring in September and rifle hunts in October and November.
The timing of the hunts allows hunters to target elk during the rut (mating season) in September or pursue them later in the season during rifle hunts.
4. Public and Private Land Access
The unit has a mix of public land within the Carson National Forest and adjacent private land.
Most private land is accessible through the E-Plus program which is unique to New Mexico.
5. Challenges and Opportunities
Terrain in Unit 51 can be challenging, with dense forests and high elevations that require hunters to be physically prepared.
The elk rut in September can provide exciting opportunities for hunters, as bulls are actively seeking cows and can be more responsive to calls.
Success rates for elk hunters are generally good, though hunters may face competition for tags due to the area’s popularity.
6. Outfitters and Guides
Many hunters opt to use outfitters in Unit 51, especially for access to private lands and to improve the chances of success.
Outfitters often have access to landowner tags and offer guided hunts, making it a great option for hunters who want expert advice and support.
Conclusion
Unit 51 in New Mexico is a premier destination for elk hunting, with its healthy elk populations, diverse terrain, and trophy potential. The unit offers a variety of hunting opportunities, from archery to rifle hunts, and provides access to both public and private lands. While the terrain can be challenging. There is plenty of area for the hunter that might not have the ability to hunt the rougher terrain. The unit’s popularity and success rates make it a top choice for elk hunters in New Mexico.
Tentative Hunt Dates 2025
Bull Elk
Bow- Sep . 1-14 (Either Sex)
Bow- Sep . 15-24 (Either Sex)
Muzzle- Dec . 6-10 (Either Sex)
Rifle- Oct . 4-8
Rifle- Oct . 11-15
Rifle -Oct . 18-22
Cow Elk
Rifle- Nov, 1-5
Rifle- Nov, 8-12
Rifle- Nov, 15-19
Unit 49 Elk Hunts
Unit 49 in New Mexico, located in the northwest part of the state, is a premier elk hunting area known for its trophy elk potential. This unit is situated within the Carson National Forest and surrounding private lands, offering a diverse range of terrain, including mountainous areas, forests, and open meadows—ideal habitats for elk.
Key Points:
Trophy Elk: Unit 49 is famous for producing large, mature bulls with impressive antlers, making it a top choice for hunters seeking trophy elk.
Healthy Elk Population: The unit has a stable elk population of rocky mountain elk, ensuring a strong hunting experience.
Hunting Seasons: Unit 49 offers both archery and rifle hunting seasons, with archery season typically in September and rifle hunts in October and November.
Public and Private Land Access: The area includes both public lands and private lands, with access to private land available through landowner tags.
High Success Rates: The unit's trophy potential, along with its well-managed elk populations, offers relatively high success rates for hunters.
In summary, Unit 49 is a highly sought-after area for trophy elk hunting, providing abundant opportunities for both novice and experienced hunters to pursue large bulls in a variety of challenging and scenic terrains.
Tentative Hunt Dates 2025
Bull Elk
Bow Sep . 1-14 ( Either Sex)
Bow Sep . 15-24 (Either Sex)
Any Legal Oct . 4-8
