Game Management Unit 18 (34.0626, -106.3712)
© OpenStreetMap contributorsGame Management Unit 18
Game Management Unit 18 covers mostly flat to rolling desert east and west of the Rio Grande near Socorro in central New Mexico, with steep mesa edges and canyon sections; elevations range from about 5,500 to 7,500 feet, grading from desert grassland to juniper and scrub oak. Pronghorn is the primary draw species, with elk and limited mule deer also available, plus bear and cougar in their zones. About two-thirds of the unit is public land in a BLM/state trust checkerboard; no big-game hunting is allowed on the Sevilleta National Wildlife Refuge within the unit. A valid New Mexico hunting license is required. Confirm current dates, draw requirements, and limits with NMDGF.
Pronghorn is the primary draw, with elk (often archery) and limited mule deer, plus bear and cougar in their zones; tags are issued through the NMDGF draw. Check NMDGF for current dates and limits.
Roughly two-thirds public land in a checkerboard of private, BLM and state trust parcels, accessed by dirt roads off I-25 and US 380/54/55. No big-game hunting is allowed on the Sevilleta National Wildlife Refuge within the unit.
Data from New Mexico Department of Game and Fish. Conditions change — verify with the managing agency before you go.