Late September- Early October
New Mexico continues to lead the West in youth elk hunting opportunities. Each year, youths (17 & under), are eligible to draw Youth Only Licenses. Not only do these hunts take place in some of the state’s best units, they also have season dates that often coincide with the peak of the rut. Draw odds can be up to five-times better on youth only tags compared to adult licenses. Also, guaranteed tags are available at a higher-cost.
Youth only hunts take place in units spread out across the state, although we at WTA TAGS, focus completely on the highest quality units. These hunts have produced giant bulls and an overall great hunting experiences for our youth applicants over the last 18 years. It is virtually impossible for a child to go on one of these hunts and not become addicted to elk hunting.
Many of the hunts will utilize lodges, or RV style camps with terrain varying from traditional mountainous elk habitat to rolling hills covered in pinon and juniper trees. For those looking for a true adventure a number of wilderness style hunts utilizing horses and wall tent camps do exist.
The outfitters we work with for the youth-only hunts are fathers and grandfathers whom excel at providing a safe, family friendly, high quality hunting experience that only furthers a child’s love for the outdoors.
Youth only elk tags are limited to rifle and muzzleloader. Scopes and pelletized powder are legal to use in muzzleloaders.
WTA TAGS values our outdoor heritage and the future of hunting, so much so, that we offer free application and float services to all youth hunters (18 & Under). To be clear, TAGS will apply and front the $760 license fee required at the time of application; the only cost incurred will be the $13 state application fee and $20 license fee.
If you have 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 youth only elk draw- please contact WTA TAGS at 1-800-755-TAGS(8247) or email us at TAGS@trophyadventures.com
$5,000 + 7% tax (approx.) if drawn
$10,500 + 7% tax (approx.) Guaranteed Unit Wide Tag In Unit 16C
$12,500 + 7% tax (approx.) Guaranteed Ranch Tag In Unit 34C
Pricing includes one hunter and one observer
$760 License & Tag
Hunt inclusions will vary based off of area drawn.
Hunt exclusions will be based off of area drawn.
Many of the hunts will utilize lodges or RV style camps with terrain varying from traditional mountainous elk habitat to rolling hills covered in pinon and juniper trees. For those looking for a true adventure a number of wilderness style hunts utilizing horses and wall tent camps do exist.
Transportation will be based off of area drawn. Typically clients will fly into Albuquerque, NM or El Paso, TX – rent car and drive to camp.
Easy: Somewhat easy walking when it comes to physicality. Minimal walking or hiking and terrain is very accessible. Mostly hunting from blinds or tree stands.
Moderate: Physicality is somewhat moderate to advanced. Spot and stalk method of hunting as well as some hunting from blinds. Terrain can vary from prairies to mountains at higher elevations.
Difficult: Requires an advanced degree of physical endurance. Terrain is typically more mountainous and hunting can take place at higher elevation.
Extreme: Most difficult and physically demanding hunts. Requires advanced to extreme endurance and terrain or game pursued may involve dangerous situations.
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