Hunting is one of the priority recreational uses on National Wildlife Refuges and compatible with the mission of this refuge. Organized hunting of surplus wildlife species is one tool used to maintain wildlife populations at a level compatible with the available habitat. Hunting on National Wildlife Refuges is a privilege, please respect it.
In addition to specific hunting regulations, there are rules and regulations governing visitor use on the refuge. Please visit our rules and regulations page for more information.
Bosque del Apache NWR Hunting Information Sheet with map (.pdf)
Light goose hunting for the 2018-2019 season has been temporarily suspended due to lack of harvest and changes in the agriculture system at the refuge.
Farm reconstruction and reorganization should be completed by the 2019-2020 season and we anticipate the hunts to reconvene at that time.
Youth turkey hunts are available through an online application and drawing system. The application period is in February and the hunts occur on select weekends in April and May.
Learn more
Mule deer hunting is open in specific areas of the refuge and abides by the State of New Mexico regulations.
Intermittent elk hunts are conducted by lottery system through New Mexico Game and Fish's elk depredation list. You must apply through the state drawing system in the spring to potentially be chosen for a hunt. Contact NM Game and Fish for more information.
Oryx hunting is allowed in specific areas of the refuge from September 1 through January 31 and abides by the State of New Mexico regulations.
Hunting for cottontail rabbit, dove, and quail is allowed in certain areas of the refuge and abides by the State of New Mexico regulations.
New Mexico Department of Fish and Game
Please contact the refuge with additional questions: 575/835 1828