New Mexico Elk Hunting Trips

New Mexico Unit 16B

Overview

New Mexico Unit 16B is a premier hunting destination located within the heart of the Gila Wilderness, one of the most iconic and remote elk hunting areas in the state. Known for its rugged terrain, Unit 16B offers hunters a true backcountry experience with steep canyons, dense forests, and vast open meadows, making it a prime location for trophy elk hunting. The unit is renowned for producing mature bulls, with many hunters targeting bulls in the 300+ inch range, and it’s a top choice for those seeking high-quality, free-range elk hunts.

Unit 16B is highly coveted due to its limited access, ensuring low hunting pressure and an exclusive hunting experience. The early archery and rifle seasons during the rut are especially popular as the bulls are highly vocal, making it an exciting time for hunters to call and stalk their game. The wilderness nature of Unit 16B adds an extra layer of adventure, requiring hunters to be prepared for a physically demanding hunt in a remote, wild setting.

New Mexico Elk Hunting Seasons in Unit 16B

Unit 16B offers hunting opportunities for archery, muzzleloader, and rifle seasons, with prime elk hunting taking place during the rut in September and early October.

Scouting for Unit 16B

Given its remote location and challenging terrain, scouting is crucial for success in Unit 16B. Utilizing mapping tools like OnX Hunt and Google Earth, as well as detailed U.S. Forest Service maps, can help hunters familiarize themselves with key areas of elk activity and prepare for navigating this vast wilderness unit.

For more detailed maps, you can contact the NM Public Lands Information Center at (877) 851-8946 or visit their website for more resources: http://plicmapcenter.org/NM/.

Thank you Outdoors International!

It was an amazing steelhead fishing trip! I brought my dad along with me and we slayed the fish. If you guys aren't applying for the OI Draws, you should. They're legit!

Tyler Kirk / OI Draw Winner

I couldn't believe we won!

We won this fully guided, all-inclusive New Zealand red stag hunt in the OI Draw! I highly recommend this hunt, and Outdoors International—fantastic company, amazing meals, and hunts that are second to none.

Brandon Ball / OI Draw Winner

I'm so grateful for the opportunity!

Thank you to Outdoors International, all the PH's and their awesome staff. I made some new friends and will be back to Africa again 100%.

Brye Mangum / OI Draw Winner

My most memorable and rewarding experience.

This was my first guided hunt, and the outfitter was amazing. He was able to keep me motivated and encouraged to hold out for true trophies. I would rate him on an 11 on a scale of 1 to 10! I never thought Africa would be a reality for me. Thank you Outdoors International.

Dason Lasater / OI Draw Winner