Mark and Edna Harper built Rancho Rojo Outfitters into a full-time family operation based in Coyote, New Mexico—some of the most scenic country in the Southwest. Lifetime New Mexico residents, they've spent over three decades guiding hunters across the state's best game units. Every guide at Rancho ...
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Full description and what we offer
Mark and Edna Harper built Rancho Rojo Outfitters into a full-time family operation based in Coyote, New Mexico—some of the most scenic country in the Southwest. Lifetime New Mexico residents, they've spent over three decades guiding hunters across the state's best game units.
Every guide at Rancho Rojo is local and experienced. Most have lived and worked their entire lives in the areas being hunted. This isn't a small thing—it means they know how weather, time of year, and terrain affect animal movements. That local knowledge translates directly into better hunts.
Rancho Rojo limits the number of clients booked each season to maintain quality service. Repeat customers and referrals are the foundation of their business.
Every hunt package covers: - Fully guided and outfitted experience - Two hunters per guide (one-on-one available at extra cost) - Modern lodging with hot showers and satellite TV - Homemade camp meals - Field care and cold storage of game - Transportation during the hunt - Delivery of meat and trophy to local processor and taxidermist
Hunter pays separately for: New Mexico license fees, personal gear, meat processing, and taxidermy charges.
Elk hunts are conducted on quality game units (5-A, 5-B, 6-A, 6-C) listed for 24+ years as some of the best mature bull areas in New Mexico. Elevations range from 7,000–10,000 feet.
Success track record: - Bulls scoring up to 360 inches - Average bulls in the 260–320 inch class - Multiple record book animals harvested
| Season | Dates | Hunt Length | Method |
|---|---|---|---|
| Archery | September | 6 days standard | Spot & stalk, calling, tree stands |
| Muzzleloader | October (early) | 5 days | Spot & stalk, calling |
| Rifle | October–Early November | 5 days | Spot & stalk, calling, ground blinds |
| Private Land | Sept 1–24 (archery); Oct 1–Dec 31 (all weapons) | Your choice | Bull or cow elk |
License Fees: - New Mexico Game License: $65.00 - Bull Elk: $555.00 - Cow Elk: $345.00 - Quality High Demand: $780.00
Deposits: $500 (public land draw), $2,500 (private ranch). Refundable if not drawn.
These public land units produce mature heavy-horned bucks year after year. The area maintains an excellent resident herd, and cold weather brings migratory deer. Numerous record book deer have been harvested here.
Public Land Seasons: - Rifle Hunts (November): 5-day "pre-rut" hunts when bucks are most active. Spot and stalk from 6,500–7,500 ft elevation. Easy to moderate terrain. - Archery (September): 6 days standard, shorter/longer available - January: Tail-end rut keeps big bucks moving - Muzzleloader (Late September): 90% shooting opportunity over past years
Track Record: - 20% draw success rate over 25 years - 100% shooting opportunity on multiple bucks - Bucks up to 200-inch class harvested
Private Ranch Mule Deer Hunts: Borders the famed Jicarilla Reservation with guaranteed tags (no draw required). 100% shooting opportunities on mature bucks. Costs $3,000–$5,500. Same season dates as public land.
Deposits: $500 (public), $2,000 (private). Refundable if not drawn.
3–5 day hunts on public land with limited entry and excellent draw success for guided hunters. This is 100% shooting opportunity hunting on 12–17 inch bucks during August.
Method: Spot and stalk plus ground blinds at crossing areas and near water. Camp includes wall tents, RV trailer with hot shower, and camp meals.
Application Deadline: March each year
Cost: $2,700
Deposit: $500 (refundable if not drawn)
Rancho Rojo is approved and permitted to conduct guided oryx hunts on White Sands—a unique opportunity to hunt free-ranging trophy animals. Previous clients have enjoyed 100% shooting opportunities on mature animals. Hotel accommodations in nearby towns.
Cost: $2,700
Deposit: $500 (refundable if not drawn)
Application Deadline: March each year
Hunt application assistance is available with no obligation. If unsuccessful in the draw or if you miss the application deadline, guaranteed tags (Landowner Permits) may be available at additional cost. Contact for pricing.
Group, Military & Return Client Rates Available — Ask about discounts when booking.
Mark Harper is a licensed Professional Outfitter in New Mexico and Colorado. Rancho Rojo holds memberships in: - Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation - Safari Club International - Mule Deer Foundation - NWTF (National Wild Turkey Federation) - New Mexico Council of Outfitters & Guides - NRA - North American Hunting Club
Mark and Edna Harper Rancho Rojo Outfitters PO Box 239 Elephant Butte, NM 87935
Phone: (505) 252-1043 (Mobile phones only)
Email: [email protected]
"We are a small family business and pride ourselves in being able to give you the best value for your dollar, with personal service and honesty."
References furnished upon request. Testimonials from clients across the country confirm the quality of hunts and hospitality Rancho Rojo provides year after year.
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