Mountain Lion Hunting in Montana: Western Cat Strategies
Understanding the Terrain and Habitat
Hunting mountain lions in New Mexico isn’t like slipping through timber country in the East or managing populations in the northwest of Montana. This is a land of sun-scorched mesas, rocky arroyos, and sprawling desert scrub. Lions don’t hang around in the open, so success starts with understanding where this species moves, rests, and hunts, considering their unique behaviors and genetic relationships. They tend to roam the breaks where canyons meet ridgelines, and they’ll use cover like junipers and piñon pines to stalk prey such as deer and elk. Early morning and late afternoon are good times to scout for fresh sign, including tracks in sandy washes, claw marks on trees, and scat near game trails. Glassing from high points can help spot game movement, but once the lion is located or sign is found, that’s when the dogs take over. The landscape may look bare at first glance, but mountain lions thrive in these stretches of wild country if you know how to read it.
Picking the Right Dogs for the Job
The backbone of any successful lion hunt in New Mexico is a good pack of hounds. Not every dog is cut out for lion country. You need dogs that can handle rocky ground, high heat, and long miles without losing drive or focus. The breed of the dog is crucial; breeds like the Walker Hound, Plott Hound, or Redbone Coonhound are common choices, especially when they’re bred and trained specifically for mountain lion hunting. A typical pack might include several cold-nosed trailers that can work an older track and one or two faster dogs that push once the scent heats up. Training starts young and continues with every hunt. These dogs have to be able to pick up the faintest trail in dry, dusty conditions and stick with it across steep terrain until the lion is treed or bayed up. A strong bond between hunter and dog keeps the whole operation running smooth.
Tracking and Treeing Lions in the Desert
Once a track is found, the dogs are cast out and the work begins. Following a lion in New Mexico is no quick sprint. Tracks can lead across miles of harsh country. The dogs will bark as they strike the scent, then begin to trail. Every bark tells a different part of the story. Experienced hunters can tell whether a dog’s excited about a fresh track or just sniffing a day-old trail. When the pack opens up full and begins to push hard, that’s when the chase is on. Effective management strategies are crucial to ensure that the number of lions killed is sustainable and does not negatively impact the population. Biologists play a key role in tracking and studying mountain lion populations, utilizing data from collar studies and field observations to monitor populations, lion behavior, territory ranges, and genetic diversity. Lions will often tree in a juniper or hunker down in a rocky crevice. When that happens, the hunter has to hustle to reach the dogs before the lion decides to move again. It’s not uncommon to hike several miles up and down ridges just to get within sight. The final approach should be careful and respectful. Safety and a clean, ethical shot are top priorities.
Gearing Up for Desert Conditions
The desert doesn’t forgive unprepared hunters. A successful mountain lion hunt in New Mexico starts with smart packing. Sturdy boots with ankle support and a tread that grips well on loose rock are a must. Layered clothing helps you adapt to temperature swings from freezing mornings to hot afternoons. A wide-brim hat and sunglasses keep the sun off your face, and a hydration pack is just as critical as your rifle. Hunting with hounds typically occurs during winter and early spring. Many hunters also carry GPS units with dog trackers, extra collars, spare batteries, and a small medical kit for both the hunter and the dogs. Hunting dogs play a crucial role in tracking and managing mountain lion populations, making their preparation and care essential for a successful hunt. A reliable sidearm is carried by some in case of a close encounter, though the final shot on a treed lion is typically taken with a scoped rifle in .243 or similar caliber. The hunt can last a full day or more, so being prepared is key to both success and safety.
Working with a Guide or Going Solo
Most first-time lion hunters in New Mexico hire a guide. These professionals have the dogs, the knowledge of the area, and the experience to read subtle signs most would miss. Outfitters play a crucial role in developing effective hunting strategies, ensuring both conservation and sustainable practices. In Montana, for example, mountain lion populations are managed differently compared to other species like elk, with numerous hunting districts having specific quotas. They know which canyons hold lions and when to move to a different range. For those looking to go solo, the learning curve is steep. Boot hunters, who employ traditional hunting methods without dogs, face additional challenges in accurately identifying the sex of the lions and managing population control. It takes time to build a reliable pack and learn the land. Solo hunters often start as apprentices under seasoned guides or experienced houndsmen before setting out on their own. Whether guided or not, lion hunting in New Mexico demands patience, persistence, and a willingness to put in the miles.
Respecting the Animal and the Law
Mountain lions are top-tier predators and should be hunted with respect. New Mexico’s Game and Fish Department requires a license and often a special tag for lion hunting. The Montana FWP (Fish, Wildlife, and Parks) department also manages mountain lion hunting, proposing management strategies and incorporating a public comment period to gather community input on quotas. There are rules about reporting harvests, tagging, and checking in animals. Every hunter should be familiar with the current regulations, including areas where hunting is restricted or methods that are prohibited. Ethical hunters also think about the animal. Determining the sex of mountain lions before hunting is crucial to prevent the accidental killing of females with dependent young. A clean shot, minimal suffering, and respect for the animal after the kill all matter. Many hunters use the hide and skull for display, but nothing should be taken lightly. This is a serious kind of hunting that’s more about the chase and the tradition than the trophy.
Conclusion
Mountain lion hunting in New Mexico is unlike any other hunt in the country. It’s a test of grit, teamwork, and understanding a landscape that hides its secrets well. The bond between hunter and dog, the stillness of a desert morning, and the adrenaline of hearing a hound open up on a fresh trail create an experience that stays with you long after the hunt is over. It’s not a hunt for everyone, but for those willing to put in the work, the reward goes beyond the mountain lion. It’s in the miles walked, the lessons learned, and the memories made under a sky that seems to stretch forever. This is hunting stripped down to its roots—man, dog, and wild country.
FAQs
What kind of dogs are best for hunting mountain lions in New Mexico?
Dogs like Treeing Walkers, Plotts, and Redbones are commonly used. The most important thing is a strong nose, endurance, and good training for desert conditions.
Do I need a guide to hunt mountain lions in New Mexico?
While not required, most first-time hunters use a guide. Guides provide dogs, local knowledge, and help navigate regulations and terrain, ensuring a successful experience for future hunts. Some hunters, known as boot hunters, employ traditional hunting methods without dogs, especially in states like California, Oregon, and Washington.
What caliber rifle is recommended for mountain lion hunting?
A scoped .243 or similar caliber is often used for clean shots on a treed lion. It offers enough power without excessive recoil.
Can I hunt mountain lions year-round in New Mexico?
Hunting season for mountain lions is open most of the year, but there are harvest limits and zones that can close once quotas are met. Always check current regulations.
How far do you usually travel on a mountain lion hunt?
Hunts can cover several miles in a single day, often across steep and rugged desert terrain. Good physical condition and preparation are important.