Hunters discussing Unit 17 in New Mexico highlight the unit's challenging terrain, which requires good physical preparation and navigation skills. Many users emphasize the importance of understanding seasonal patterns, as they can significantly affect game movement and visibility. Successful hunters recommend scouting the area ahead of the season to familiarize themselves with the landscape and potential game hotspots. Overall, insights suggest that patience and thorough planning can enhance hunting experiences in this rugged and demanding unit.
Elk and antelope thrive in this unit, which includes the San Mateo and Magdalena mountain ranges. Apache Kid, Withington and Chupadera wilderness areas are entirely inside the unit, which also contains several hundred square miles of desert flatlands. Only bowhunters and muzzleloader hunters may hunt elk.
This is one of the finest elk hunting areas in New Mexico, with a healthy number of elk and many bulls getting old enough to grow impressive racks. This area has low deer densities and bucks struggle to reach maturity.