With more than 30 million acres of public land available to stalk and chase game, plus a large amount of private land, New Mexico is popular with hunters looking to hunt elk, deer and antelope in the state's forests and hills. Several companies organize guided hunts in New Mexico, with local guides leading amateur hunters through spectacular scenery in pursuit of their prize. The companies and hunting grounds aren't in or close by to Rio Grande, but nearby Albuquerque International Sunport is the main aviation gateway to the region and New Mexico's best elk hunting.
Like other tour organizers, Moon Valley Outfitters conducts three types of elk hunts: archery, muzzleloader and rifle. Archery hunts take place in Gila and Cibola National Forests, as well as on private land. Muzzleloader hunting trips are held in the same two forests, and state legislation allows for the use of .45-caliber or larger in-line muzzleloaders, and scopes. Rifle hunts take place on private land and Gila National Forest. The company is based in Luna, around 115 miles, or a three-hour drive east, from Rio Grande.
Located near Sante Fe National Forest, Jaco Outfitters offers hunters the chance to shoot and stalk elk and other wild animals with bows and arrows, muzzleloaders, and rifles, with the choice of weapon depending on the season. September is archery season, when five-day trips are held. Places are limited to four hunters per hunt. Rifle hunts take place in October, and large male elks are a popular target. Muzzleloader hunts also commence in October and take place until the end of November. The company is about 210 miles, or a five-hour drive north, from Rio Grande.
A family-run company, Sierra Blanca Outfitters organizes cow elk hunts and trophy bull hunts throughout the hunting season on public and private land for participants armed with rifles, muzzleloaders and archery equipment. The firm is located near Sante Fe National Forest — around a five-hour drive north from Rio Grande — and caters to hunters of all ages and abilities. Clients can choose from guided hunts or guide only, with meals, transport and accommodations, either tents or motel rooms, included in the price.
Based in Chama Valley, Fishtail Ranch specializes in fair chase hunts for elk that roam the wild plains and forests of northern New Mexico and southern Colorado. All of the firm's hunts take place on private ranches. This means licenses are guaranteed and gives authorities greater control over the number of elk killed. Participants must agree to hunt in a spot-and-stalk manner, with their activities monitored by guides who are local to the area. The company is 240 miles, or about a five-hour drive north, from Rio Grande.
