I was fortunate enough to draw the late aug muzz tag for 50-52 nm. Ive hunted these units several times but never for this species. I was wondering if any of you guys had any recent experience with this hunt or the units. Will the goats be starting to rut at this time? Anyone with any suggestions for late aug antelope? Ive only hunted them a couple times and it was in late sept so im definitely a novice when it comes to antelope. Thanks Yall!
unit 50-52 nm
- Thread starter swampokie
- Start date
gonhunting247
Veteran member
- Jan 21, 2014
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- 797
I haven't hunted NM but if it's like most places I've hunted, it's a little early for the rut. I've been interested in that hunt and from what I've read, it should be a good time. Good luck and have a blast!
chiefgobbler
Active Member
I have hunted that unit twice for Muzzle Antelope. It is a fun hunt and you should see plenty of Antelope. Due to the monsoon season I was surprised to find everything green and many of the roads muddy. Strong potential for thunderstorms. Be sure to have chains. Spring camo patterns are best there. You will also see a lot of hunters (camp spots fill up fast) and game wardens. I was in Unit 52 both hunts. Some things to consider, the National Forest part of the unit has strongly enforced travel restrictions. I was hunting from an existing two-track road that was shown on the map. A Warden issued me a written warning for being on the road even though I showed him a map with the road on it. That was the only reason he did not give me a citation. I was stopped by other Wardens (4 times in two days I had my license checked) and when I asked if I could travel that road I was told yes. I chose not do drive it again though. I do not like to road hunt; however, that road provided access an area I could walk from and be where hunters pushed the Antelope. Be careful and follow their rules. The BLM portion of the unit follows standard rules. There are trophy bucks in the unit if there is normal horn growth this year. If you have time to scout before the season you will find travel routes the Antelope frequent in this unit. I apply every year for the hunt but have not been lucky enough to draw for several years.
Thanks for the responses. This was the fourth time I applied and finally drew. I will be staying at a friends house nearby so wont be camping. Did u have any luck? Did the crowds diminish after the weekend?
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chiefgobbler
Active Member
It was only a four day season and the majority of the hunters stayed the entire time. If you get off of the roads you can get away from most of the hunters. The Antelope moved to these areas after opening day pressure. If you can find a saddle or crossing spot on a fence line and get there before first light opening day you will spot Antelope moving away from hunters. I killed a smaller buck on day 4 on the first hunt. Missed a nice buck on day one. Killed a 76 inch buck the second trip. Kicked myself for passing on a non-typical day one as I was trying for a big buck I saw when scouting.