NM 16E Gila

[TK]

Just drew a 16E Muzzleloader Tag. Oct 14-18. First time to hunt SW New Mexico. Curious as to what to expect as far as Quality, what type of terrain. Are there many roads? Is a 350 or better realistic? Thanks in advance for any info.
TK

 

[NMHUNTNUTT1]

You have a great tag , and any time a guy has a Gila tag , 350 is possible. But they don't get to 350 by being seen too often so you'll have your work cut out . Congrats on a real good hunt though...crazyboutcoues guides clients pretty successfully in that country , drop him a line , he offers a service helping hunters and he'll be launching an arrow there in 06 too.

 

[NMHUNTNUTT1]

Did ya'll notice I stated the crazy would be launching "an arrow" what confidence I have in that crazy dude eh...

 

[crazyaboutcoues]

Yeah i hope i get the chance to "launch" an arrow.

16E is a very good unit for quality Elk. Lots of Private land with little forest. I had four clients in there last year and they all had chances at good bulls. Two of the four settled for small five points.

Good Luck

www.gilawildernesshunting.com

 

[TK]

Thanks for the response. I kind of figured that the area could grow some big Wapiti but was not up on how much hunting pressure there is in that unit. I am used to public ground in SW Colorado where it is rare to see a bull over 3 1/2 years old.
Taken my fair share of them with Bow, Gun, & Muzzleloader but not any bragging size Bulls. What can I expect as far as terrain. I am used to hunting them at nose bleed elevation in the steepest and darkest timber one can find. Just curious how tough the hunt is in that area and how hard I need to exercise to get in shape as I am a flatlander and not a spring chicken anymore.
TK