Mountain Lion Hunting in New Mexico: Dogs and Desert Hunts
Introduction to the Hunt
New Mexico is a prime destination for mountain lion hunting, offering a thrilling pursuit in the state’s rugged wilderness. The diverse terrain, which includes the Chihuahuan Desert and the Gila National Forest, provides ideal habitat for mountain lions. With a healthy population of these majestic animals, New Mexico is an exciting location for hunters to test their skills. Mountain lion hunts in New Mexico are physically demanding, requiring hunters to be in good physical shape and prepared for the challenge. For those ready to take on the adventure, New Mexico’s mountain lion hunting experience is an opportunity not to be missed. Hunters can pursue mountain lions using various methods, including archery and rifle, and with the help of experienced guides and hounds, they can increase their chances of success.
Understanding the Terrain and Habitat
Hunting mountain lions in New Mexico’s rugged wilderness isn’t like slipping through timber country in the East. 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 they move, rest, and hunt. They tend to roam the breaks where canyons meet ridgelines, and they’ll use cover like junipers and piñon pines to stalk prey. 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. Traditional hunting methods often involve the use of horses, adding to the adventure and immersion in the scenic beauty of the landscape.
Prime Hunting Grounds
The prime hunting grounds for mountain lion hunts in New Mexico are located in the state’s rugged wilderness, including the Gila National Forest and the Chihuahuan Desert. These areas offer ideal habitat for mountain lions, with diverse terrain that includes desert canyons, mesa plateaus, and forested mountain slopes. The best chance of spotting a mountain lion is in areas with fresh water sources, such as rivers and streams, and where the terrain provides ample cover and stalking opportunities. Hunters can access these prime hunting grounds with the help of experienced guides, who can provide valuable information on the best locations and techniques for tracking and pursuing mountain lions. By booking a hunt with a reputable outfitter, hunters can gain access to private lands and exclusive areas, increasing their chances of a successful hunt. Whether hunting with hounds or on foot, the prime hunting grounds in New Mexico offer an unforgettable experience for hunters. With its unique landscape and abundant wildlife, New Mexico is a haven for hunters seeking a thrilling mountain lion hunting adventure.
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. Breeds like the Walker Hound, Plott Hound, or Redbone Coonhound are common choices, especially when they’re bred and trained 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, making them feel like family. The heart of these dogs, combined with the emotional intensity of the hunt, makes the experience truly exhilarating.
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. One thrilling moment is when the lion is finally treed, and the anticipation peaks. 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. Wintertime hunts, especially in snow, present unique challenges and excitement. 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. 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. 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 book a hunt with a guide. These professionals have the dogs, the knowledge of the area, and the experience to read subtle signs most would miss. They know which canyons hold lions and when to move to a different range. Clients are responsible for obtaining tags, licenses, and handling sales tax, ensuring a personalized and immersive adventure. For those looking to go solo, the learning curve is steep. 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. Hunters can obtain these licenses through the New Mexico Department of Game and Fish website. 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. 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. The crucial moment when the lion is treed adds to the excitement and anticipation of the hunt. 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. Securing a hunting tag can take several years, making the experience even more coveted and memorable.
FAQs
What kind of dogs are best for hunting mountain lions in New Mexico?
Dogs like Treeing Walkers, Plotts, and Redbones are primarily used for hunting. 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. It is highly recommended to book a guide, as they provide dogs, local knowledge, and help navigate regulations and terrain.
What caliber rifle is recommended for mountain lion hunting?
A scoped .243 or similar type of rifle 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. These hunts can be conducted traditionally using horses and mules for transportation. Good physical condition and preparation are important.