NM Elk Unit 12

[steelhead]

Has anyone hunted this unit in the past? I have an either sex archery elk hunt tag for this unit and am just beginning to scout things out. I have found some pretty good areas and was just wondering if anyone else is familiar with the unit and has any suggestions. Also, if anyone could tell me what caliber of bulls to expect in this unit, that would be helpful. I have seen some bulls, but nothing huge yet. Just wondering if there are some big guys out there. What seems to be the best way to archery elk hunt this unit? Do the bulls get pretty vocal? I have heard the elk are pretty spread out on this unit. Would sitting water holes be a good method? Any information would be appreciated.

Thanks,
Steelhead

 

[elk4you]

The elk pop is very spread outin 12. If you found a good waterhole with tracks, I would sit. The are some huge bulls there...it's just getting access to them There was a 420+" bull killed on the Hubble ranch North of Quemado.
Josh

 

[270winchester]

we hunted it the last two years and only saw a total of 25 elk. never did take one. my dads friend shot a nice five by six in the same area we hunted just three weeks earlier. he then hunted the same area the next year for archery and had a shot at a nice 6x6. i can't tell you where at though due to the fact that it is his little secret spot. good luck though.

 

[1Bigbull]

Steelhead,
Unit 12 is a tough unit to hunt. Elk occupy the whole unit but with a very low density, which is why the permits have been cut. The majority of 12 is private so that presents another problem. One good fact about 12 is that if you find a herd bull he will usually be a hogg. But because it is such a tough hunt don't pass on anything decent or you will likely regret it.If you find a waterhole that is being hit sit it in the afternoon and you should get a shot. You will not have a significant issue with pressure from other hunters so calling works well if you can find the elk. The only thing is that they really don't get fired up until the last week of the season. Purchase the Fence Lake and Quemado BLM maps and try to find areas of accessable public land. The western portion of this unit butts up to unit 1 in Arizona and there is some public land you can hunt you will have a good chance there. The chain of craters also has elk and will be a good place to look because of the abundance of public land. If you go there you will find elk just east of the indian reservation. Go early if you can because you will need to scout a good bit. Hope this helps.

1Bigbull

 

[steelhead]

Thanks everyone for your information. People like you are what makes this site so great. Hopefully someday I can return the favor. Once again, thanks a lot. Your information has given me just what I need to get started. Good luck this fall!

Thanks,
Steelhead