Elk Hunting in New Mexico – A Premier Guided Experience
Our limited-reservation elk hunts are designed to provide hunters with maximum opportunity, minimal pressure, and a high success rate. With experienced guides, comfortable accommodations, and expert game management, we do our best to see that every hunter experiences the adventure of a lifetime.
Whether you choose to chase bugling bulls during the rut, hunt from a heated stand in muzzleloader season, or spot-and-stalk with a rifle, our ranch in New Mexico provides an authentic, high-quality elk hunting experience.
Why Hunt Elk at La Joya Valley Ranch?
Hunting elk in New Mexico is highly competitive, and securing a quality private land hunt can be difficult. At La Joya Valley Ranch, we provide a premier experience that sets us apart from public land and other outfitters:
1. Private Land Elk Hunting – No Crowds, No Overhunting
Unlike public land hunts where elk are constantly pressured, our ranch offers exclusive, private access to well-managed hunting grounds in New Mexico. This means:
- Higher elk populations and better opportunities for bulls.
- Minimal hunting pressure, ensuring elk stay in their natural patterns.
- Better shot opportunities with less competition from other hunters.
2. High Elk Density & Bulls
Our ranch is located in New Mexico’s Elk Zone 18, an area known for producing impressive bulls. We maintain a healthy herd with a mix of mature bulls, cows, and younger males thanks to careful game management and controlled hunting.
Hunters can expect to see plenty of elk, making La Joya Valley Ranch one of the top private land destinations for elk hunting.
3. Experienced Guides & Proven Hunting Strategies
Our guides are skilled in tracking, calling, and positioning hunters for success. Whether you prefer archery, muzzleloader, or rifle hunting, our guides will:
- Use calling techniques to draw in rutting bulls.
- Identify the best stands and ambush locations.
- Provide one-on-one guidance to ensure a safe and successful hunt.
Elk Hunting Packages & Pricing
We offer three elk hunting options in New Mexico, each designed to provide a high-quality, all-inclusive experience. Each package includes the option to bring non hunting guests for $200.00 per day.
Bull Elk Hunting Package – $13,000
- 5-day, 6-night guided hunt.
- Hunt any legal bull elk.
- Lodging, meals, and private land access are included.
- Hunting methods: Spot & stalk, calling, or elevated stands.
Management Bull Elk Hunt – $7,500 (When anailable)
- 5-day, 6-night guided hunt.
- Select bulls (2- to 3-year-old animals) chosen by our guides for herd management.
- Lodging, meals, and private land access are included.
Cow Elk Hunting Package – $4,000
- 3-day, 4-night guided hunt.
- An excellent opportunity for meat hunters looking for an affordable elk hunt.
- Includes lodging, meals, and expert guide service.
These prices do not include:
- 6.25% NM sales tax.
- Guide gratuities (15% minimum is recommended).
Elk Hunting Methods & What to Expect
Elk hunting at La Joya Valley Ranch in New Mexico occurs in varied terrain, including river bottom woodlands, rolling grasslands, and open meadows. Our guided elk hunts in New Mexico utilize several effective hunting methods based on the season and the hunter’s preference.
Archery Elk Hunts (Spot, Stalk & Call) – September
Early season archery elk hunts are an adrenaline-packed experience, as bulls are entering the rut. This is when they:
- Bugle aggressively, making them easier to locate.
- Respond to calling techniques, allowing for close encounters.
- Are more active during daylight hours, increasing shot opportunities.
What to Expect for Archery Hunts:
- Spot and stalk tactics for getting within range.
- Calling strategies to bring bulls into bow range.
- Close-quarters action makes this one of the most exciting ways to hunt elk.
Muzzleloader Elk Hunts
September-October
During the muzzleloader season, bulls are still rutting, but their behavior begins to change. While some calling can still be effective, we also:
- Utilize comfortable, heated elevated blinds in prime locations.
- Focus on ambush strategies, taking advantage of food sources and travel corridors.
- Provides longer-range shot opportunities, making this an excellent choice for those comfortable with a muzzleloader.
Rifle Elk Hunts
October 1st to December 31st
Rifle season in New Mexico provides the best opportunity for elk hunting success. During this season:
- Bulls begin transitioning from rut to post-rut behavior.
- The colder weather may keep them active throughout the day.
- Shot distances may range from 100 to 300 yards, requiring good marksmanship.
What to Expect for Rifle Hunts:
- Well-placed heated stands and blinds in high-traffic areas.
- Medium-range shooting opportunities.
- UTV-assisted transportation to make hunts less physically demanding.
What’s Included in Your Elk Hunt?
Each of our elk hunting packages in New Mexico is all-inclusive, meaning we take care of everything except your personal gear. Your package includes:
- One-on-one professionally guided elk hunts here in New Mexico.
- Private land access with well-managed game populations.
- Lodging at our comfortable Main Lodge or Southern Ranch House.
- Three home-cooked meals per day, plus snacks and beverages.
- Field dressing, quartering, and cold storage of your elk.
- Transportation to and from hunting locations.
- Assistance with purchasing NM hunting licenses and tags.
Book Your Elk Hunt Today
Due to high demand, our elk hunting openings in New Mexico are limited and fill quickly. We recommend booking at least a year in advance to secure your spot.
Call Eric at (505) 357-3082
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