Ridgeline Outfitters operates private ranch elk hunts in Unit 46 near Ocate in Northeast New Mexico—the only unit in the state that's entirely private. This matters because it means consistent animal quality and no crowding. Bow season: September 1-24. Pick any five consecutive days. Rifle season: O...
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Full description and what we offer
Ridgeline Outfitters operates private ranch elk hunts in Unit 46 near Ocate in Northeast New Mexico—the only unit in the state that's entirely private. This matters because it means consistent animal quality and no crowding.
Terrain is mild compared to other NM units—cedar-juniper canyons with glassing opportunities, averaging 6,800' elevation. Trophy bulls average 325 pounds with 350+ class bulls possible.
Spot and stalk or ambush hunting from blinds. Rifle hunters should be comfortable with shots from 200-400 yards. Muzzleloader hunts offer a more challenging experience. Archery hunts (20-60 yard range) require close contact and zero margin for error—guides here have years of experience.
Packages include: - Fully guided 1-on-1 or 2-on-1 - Unguided options - Guide-only (you handle meals/lodging) - All-inclusive (guides, meals, accommodations)
"Trophy elk average about 325 with potential opportunities at bigger 350 class bulls."
Arizona big game hunting is widely considered the best in the world. Ridgeline hunts units 1, 2A, 2B, 3A, 3B, 3C, 7W, 8, 9, 10, and 27—all with potential for enormous bulls. Guides have intimate knowledge of terrain throughout the state.
Non-resident tags are tough to draw (16% of available tags go to non-residents). Ridgeline uses the Outfitters Pool lottery—only outfitters can enter hunters here, dramatically improving odds.
Public land units hunted: 12, 13, 15, 17, 16A, 16D, 16E, and 34.
Forest hunts: - Gila National Forest (Southwest NM) - Lincoln National Forest (South Central NM) - Cibola National Forest (Western NM)
Rifle and muzzleloader hunts typically start mid-October. Success rates are very high.
Mule Deer (NM & AZ) - Private and public land hunts in New Mexico - Arizona archery-only (over-the-counter in many units) - Coues Whitetail available on high-quality areas
Pronghorn Antelope - Over 160 private acres - Nearly 100% success rate - Hunters average upper 70s; Boone & Crockett class is common - Archery, muzzleloader, rifle options
Oryx - White Sands Missile Range (South Central NM) or surrounding public lands - Described as one of the most exciting NM hunts
Barbary Sheep - Public and private land throughout New Mexico
Ridgeline handles tag application services and license setup. Important draw deadlines:
| Draw | Deadline | Time |
|---|---|---|
| New Mexico Big Game | March 19, 2025 | 5:00 PM MT |
| Arizona Elk & Antelope | February 4, 2025 | 5:00 PM MT |
Mailing Address: Ridgeline Outfitters PO Box 1697 Los Lunas, NM 87031
Physical Location: 1239 Sunflower Ave Belen, NM 87002
Outfitter License #3015. Check website for current pricing, availability, and booking windows. Cancellation policy: deposits applied to future hunts, no refunds.
Ridgeline provides guidance on gear to pack. Processing available through North Park Big Game Processing. 2019 hunt brochure available on request.
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