Alligator hunting is a popular sport in New Mexico. The state is home to two species of alligators, the American alligator, and the Mexican alligator. Alligator hunting season in New Mexico runs from September 1st to October 31st. During this time, hunters can take up to two alligators per year. Alligator hunting is a regulated sport in New Mexico. All hunters must have a valid hunting license and alligators must be taken with a firearm or bow and arrow. There are also size limits in place for alligators that are harvested. In this blog post, we will explore alligator hunting in New Mexico. We will discuss the regulations, the equipment needed, and the best places to hunt.
Alligator Hunting Laws in New Mexico
Alligator hunting is regulated by the Alligator Management Plan for New Mexico which is overseen by the Department of Game and Fish. The harvest of alligators is only allowed in specific counties and during specific times of the year. A permit is required to hunt alligators and can be obtained through a random drawing or by purchasing a license from the Department of Game and Fish.
There are a few things to keep in mind if you’re lucky enough to draw an alligator hunting permit in New Mexico. First, you’ll need to purchase an annual alligator hunting license, which will set you back $100. You’ll also need to complete an online Hunter Education Course if you haven’t already done so. Finally, make sure you’re familiar with the state’s alligator hunting laws and regulations before heading out into the field.
The most important thing to remember when alligator hunting in New Mexico is to always use proper safety equipment. This includes wearing a life jacket at all times while on the water, using a bang stick or harpoon when approaching an alligator, and never attempting to wrestle or subdue an alligator by yourself.
Related: Hog Hunting in New Mexico
Do you need a license to hunt Alligators in New Mexico?
In New Mexico, you need a license to hunt alligators. The license costs $100 and is valid for one year. You can get the license from the Department of Game and Fish.
Alligator Hunting Seasons in New Mexico
The alligator hunting season in New Mexico runs from September 1st through March 31st. Alligators can only be hunted on Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays during this time period. A maximum of two alligators may be taken per household per year. Alligator hunting is only allowed in specific areas of the state, and a permit must be obtained from the Department of Game and Fish prior to hunting.
Alligator meat is considered to be a delicacy and is often used in Cajun cuisine. The hide of the alligator can also be used to make leather goods. Alligator hunting can be a dangerous sport, so it is important to take proper safety precautions and follow all regulations set forth by the state of New Mexico.
Can you hunt alligators at night in New Mexico?
Alligator hunting is allowed in New Mexico from September 1st through February 28th. You can only hunt during the day however; alligators are not allowed to be hunted at night.
Bag limits for hunting Alligator in New Mexico
The bag limit for hunting alligators in New Mexico is two per person, per year. Alligators may be taken only by means of a hand-held line or harpoon with a barbless hook, and only after the animal has been securely hooked and brought to shore. Alligators must be harvested with firearms only during the open season declared by the Department each year.
Legal ways to hunt Alligators in New Mexico
In New Mexico, it is legal to hunt alligators on private land with a permit from the Department of Game and Fish. Alligator hunting season runs from September 1st through June 30th. hunters must apply for a permit and submit it to the department no later than June 1st. The number of permits issued each year is based on the number of alligators harvested in the previous year. The minimum length for an alligator that can be harvested is 4 feet.
There are a few ways that you can go about hunting alligators in New Mexico. You can either use a shotgun or a bow and arrow. If you choose to use a shotgun, you must use a shot no larger than size BB. It is also illegal to shoot an alligator from a moving vehicle. If you decide to use a bow and arrow, you must have a minimum draw weight of 40 pounds. You are only allowed to shoot an alligator with one arrow, and you must be within 30 yards of the animal when you shoot.
Once you have killed an alligator, you must report the harvest to the Department of Game and Fish within 24 hours. You will also need to bring the carcass to a licensed taxidermist or meat processor within 10 days so that it can be properly processed.
Can you use dogs to hunt alligators in New Mexico?
Yes, dogs can be used to hunt alligators in New Mexico. Alligators are typically found in freshwater bodies of water, such as lakes, ponds, and rivers. In New Mexico, alligators are found in the Rio Grande river.
Dogs can be used to help find and track alligators. Alligators are shy and secretive animals, and they are often difficult to spot. Dogs can help to flush alligators out of hiding places and keep them cornered until the hunter arrives.
Alligator hunting with dogs is a popular method of hunting in Louisiana, where the majority of the United States alligator population is located. This method can be successful in New Mexico as well, but it requires patience and experience. Hunters must be familiar with both alligator behavior and dog training techniques in order to be successful.
Can you hunt Alligator from a vehicle in New Mexico?
In New Mexico, alligator hunting is permitted only on private land with the landowner’s permission. Public land alligator hunting is not allowed.
Alligators may be hunted by any legal means except for traps, snares, or firearms discharged from a moving vehicle.
It is illegal to possess an alligator on public land unless the alligator was legally taken in another state or country. Alligators may not be possessed on private land unless the animal was legally obtained from a licensed dealer.
Final Thoughts
Alligator hunting is a thrilling experience that everyone should try at least once. The thrill of the hunt, the excitement of the kill, and the satisfaction of knowing you’ve provided for your family are all great reasons to go alligator hunting.
But before you head out into the swamp, there are a few things you need to know. First and foremost, alligator hunting is dangerous. These animals are large, powerful, and armed with sharp teeth. They’re not to be taken lightly.
Second, you need to be prepared for the conditions. Alligator hunting takes place in hot, humid conditions. You’ll be wading through swamps and dealing with bugs and reptiles. It’s not for the faint of heart.
Finally, make sure you have a good guide. A good guide will know the area, know the alligators, and know how to keep you safe. Without a good guide, you’re more likely to get hurt or killed. So do your research and choose a reputable guide before heading out into the swamp.
