Unit 17 New Mexico

[juschillin23]

I'm hoping this unit is a good unit. My son got drawn for unit 17 youth hunt at the end of Nov. I got drawn there for the archery Jan. hunt.

Anyone else been to this unit? If so any pointers or advice to share? Anything will be appreciated.

 

[mcelweed]

Hunted it a few years ago. There's a lot of private land on the west side of Magdalena Mountains that blocks access to that side of the mountains, but I didn't realize that until I had committed to that area. San Mateo Mountains are a little easier to access except for the Apache Kid Wilderness in the southern part of the range. Deer seemed to stay high on the mountains, even in Nov. Try working top down until you find the elevation they are hanging out at. Hope this helps at least a little.

 

[nuevo_eph]

I'll be hunting first rifle there (here, actually) so PM me in November and I'll tell you what we saw. I've tagged out before in the SE Magdalenas, but it is rough on that side. I've seen decent herds on the west side while elk hunting and the terrain is much nicer there.

 

[juschillin23]

mcelweed,
thank you for the input. i've been looking at some maps already. i know our hunt is a ways off but i'm excited to get out there and scout.

 

[juschillin23]

nuevo,
Thats awesome, my son has a youth hunt at the end of NOV. also. its a big unit with lots of potential. i hunted this unit as a kid but thats been a long time ago. i hear the terrian is really rough and steep out there.