If you’re looking to get into crossbow hunting, you’ll need to be aware of the current regulations in New Mexico. This state is known for its abundant wildlife, so it’s no wonder that crossbow hunting is becoming increasingly popular. However, you’ll need to follow the correct procedures if you want to hunt with a crossbow in New Mexico. In this article, we’ll outline the basics of crossbow hunting in New Mexico and explain the applicable regulations.
Are Crossbows Legal In New Mexico? What Are The Regulations For Crossbow Hunting In New Mexico
- In New Mexico, crossbows are legal for hunting turkey, bears, cougar, elk, deer, javelin, pronghorn, Barbary sheep, oryx, Persian ibex, bighorn sheep.
- Crossbows can be used in restricted muzzleloader deer hunting or sporting arm season.
- There are no rules and regulations about crossbow minimum draw weight.
- Disabled persons can apply to use crossbows in all hunting seasons.
- The broadheads used should feature broadheads with steel cutting edges. The broadheads can either be mechanical or fixed.
- Using sights that project light or magnify light is illegal, even for disabled persons.
- It is illegal to use explosive broadheads and broadheads with chemicals, and poisons.
- You can not place bait for attempting or taking a game animal.
- You can not handle your crossbow recklessly.
- Littering or polluting streams, lakes, and other waters is illegal while hunting with your crossbow.
- You can not use a recorded calling device (Electronic/mechanic) for taking game animals, but permissible for non-game species.
- You can not use drones or similar devices to take down games or drive, scout, or locate games.
Use The Above Regulation With Care
Remember that the above regulations are just basics. We tried our best to cover all the important points, but if you have any additional questions about crossbow hunting in New Mexico, be sure to consult with a local official. We also can not guarantee that the regulations outlined here are 100% accurate and up-to-date – always consult with your government officials for the most recent information. If you find any errors or omissions in this guide, please let us know so that we can make the necessary corrections.
Is New Mexico is good for hunting
The experience of hunting in New Mexico can be very rewarding for those who are willing to explore the state’s many different hunting opportunities. Whether you’re looking for big-game hunts such as elk and mule deer, small game or duck/geese hunts, or just want to enjoy some great bird hunting on waterfowl ranges – New Mexico has something for everyone. According to New Mexico Game & Fish, almost 36,000 sportspersons hunt in the state every year, resulting in more than 11,000 deer being harvested. In addition to its significant mule deer population, New Mexico is also a popular destination for hunters pursuing brown and white-tailed deer. With such a diverse range of hunting opportunities available throughout the state, there’s sure to be something that fits your specific needs and preferences.
What Are The Top Hunting Destination In New Mexico?
Below are the four most popular hunting destinations in New Mexico. These areas boast some of the best hunting opportunities in the state, drawing hunters from all over the country.
- Cibola National Forest
- Gila National Forest
- Valle Vidal
- Vail Caldera National Preserve
Conclusion:
Hunting in New Mexico is an excellent experience for many. With so many different hunting opportunities available, there’s sure to be something that suits your needs and interests. If you have any additional questions about crossbow hunting regulations in New Mexico, please don’t hesitate to consult us and with local officials.
About The Author:
Lake Streeter, A Gun enthusiast, and loves to hunt in the middle of the wood. Always check the latest hunting gears out in the market and try to share his honest opinion with the audience in Hunting Nook.
2 thoughts on “Crossbow Hunting Regulations In New Mexico: Rules You Must Need To Know”
Regarding the use of scopes on crossbows, You state above that, “ Using sights that project light or magnify light is illegal, even for disabled persons”
Find below below a direct quote from the 2022-2023 Big Game Hunting Regulations. This exact statement appears at nearly every reference to crossbows in the 2022-2033 refs.
As you will see, scopes can not project light but there is no reference to magnification.
“ Legal sporting arms for deer, elk, pronghorn, bighorn sheep, ibex, oryx, Barbary sheep and bear (big-game sporting arms): Any centerfire firearm at least:
.22 caliber or larger, …….Sights on bows and crossbows may not project light (lighted pins are acceptable). No drugs may be used on arrows or bolts, ……..”
I interpret this to mean that a normal scope, with magnification, can be used as a legal firearm as long as it is not a red dot, or infrared, or any night vision.
Comments welcome.
Hello there,
I was want to ask this question about the crossbow that is a miniature one, does it count as a self defense weapon in New Mexico laws. I mean it shoots metal BBS but not toothpicks.