New mexico Unit #30 Please HELP

[coon007]

hello all
I'am new here and to hunting mule deer, this year I got a tag for unit #30 in southern New Mexico during muzzleloader season and need a little help. I don't know where to start hunting or which location is best in unit 30. Iam not looking for trohpys just to have a good time and try to see some bucks.what would be the best place for entering public lands.
thanks in advance.
George

 

[stevie]

I have hunted that unit many times. I think the lower elevations hold more deer, but make for longer shots. With a muzzleloader, especially an old timey one as required in that unit, I think you should hunt on top. There you will find fairly dense pinon juniper forest thereby allowing you to stalk within muzzy range.

Stay within a mile of water.

 

[coon007]

Thanks for the info that should be a great help. what general area of unit 30 would you hunt.
thanks again
george

 

[stevie]

Well, hunt in the National Forest on top of the Guadalupe Mountains. Get a map that shows all the raods and where the water tanks are. I think most hunters concentrate along the West rim, but I think the entirety of the Guadalupe Mountains is pretty good. Again, stay near water.

I would stay away from the Brokeoff Mountains which are in the Southwestern part of the unit. There was a discussion recently about hunting them with many saying it's a great place, but my experience has been poor there recently. Too many posted access roads.

I never hesitate to shoot a forkhorn in Unit 30. I'm sure many will excoriate me for this attitude, but I like meat in the freezer. Don't expect many big ones.