Just drew NM 51 1st archery

[82ndreddevil]

I've got years of rifle experience in this unit, never bow hunted it though. Since most hunters hunt 5-7 days I'm curious if any of you have hunted it before and can tell me if most hunters show up during the opening week or the second week. I am guessing most will show up in the second week in order to try to catch the rut. Im more interested in bypassing all the hunting pressure. Any advice will be appreciated!

[ElkNut1]

I believe there are as many hunters during both weeks. It's a draw & there are close to the same amount of tags each season there. Also take into consideration that any that have landowner tags for 51 can also hunt the entire unit so there's generally more competition than just the normal draw tag holders. Get away from the norm there & hunt areas where where public access is difficult & no trails exist to better your chances of being by yourself. If you use trail systems use them well before daylight & have areas in mind you've found through map study that help get you closer to your destinations but are still a mile + away from trails & roads.

ElkNut1

[zpd307]

so you stole my tag..... good luck with hunt! I don't have any advice as I have never been there. I was planning on having a secret weapon take me along....

[82ndreddevil]

Sorry I drew your tag. Last year I called dibs on a Valle Vidal archery hunt but Game & fish gave that tag to someone else. Well I got two areas in mind. One requires me to go in deep because it's a popular area, the other I see very limited access. So I guess at least I have a plan A and Plan B. Only results in scouting will prioritize them.

[zpd307]

just a little jealous

[vertical limit]

Congratulations. Should be a great hunt.