New Mexico Gila Unit 15 Elk Hunt

New Mexico’s Unit 15 is well known for being a primitive weapons unit as there are no rifle seasons in this unit, however its also well know for the record class bulls taken over the years by bowhunters and muzzleloader hunters. It’s located in the western portion of the state where it borders Arizona. Here you can experience varying landscapes ranging from 7,400 to 9,000 ft. of elevation and includes a large part of the nationally known Gila National Forrest. Much of the southern half is comprised of ridges and canyons covered in Ponderosa pines and Gambel oaks, where the north half is mainly flat with rolling sagebrush-covered basins with junipers scattered throughout the lower hills.

These tags are in high demand not only for the trophy quality, but also for the thriving herds of elk throughout the unit. So, if you’re a bowhunter or muzzleloader hunter looking to harvest a trophy class bull and are lucky enough in the draw (about 1 in 20 odds), one would have a real opportunity to harvest a bull in the 310-inch class and above. Multiple mid to high 300’s have been taken in this unit every year.

There are two September archery season, early and late. During the early season, September 1-14, rut action could be relatively light so the hunt would consist of calling, spot and stalk, utilization of trail cameras and stand hunting over water in dry weather can be very productive. During the late archery, September 15-24, the rut should be in full swing so calling and spot and stalk would be the primary hunting methods but hunting over water can still be very effective depending on the weather.

During the muzzleloader seasons (October and November) bulls will be less vocal so glassing is the primary method used to locate elk. Once located, a stalk will be planned that may also include calling and or tracking, in order to harvest the bull.

With vast amounts of limited-entry public land, and seasoned outfitters who have everything from wall tents to lodges WTA TAGS can help you through the process of applying and planning this dream hunt. If you have more questions regarding this hunt, have drawn a tag and now wish to locate the right outfitter, or would like assistance applying in the New Mexico elk draw- please contact WTA TAGS at 1-800-755-TAGS (8247) or email us at TAGS@trophyadventures.com