Blog / New Mexico Mountain Lions

By Connor Thomas
Thursday, March 23, 2023

 
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New Mexico, a land of stunning landscapes and exotic fauna, boasts a remarkable population of mountain lions, a fierce and elusive predator sought after by thrill-seekers and sportsmen. In this exposé, we delve into the captivating world of New Mexico mountain lions, and uncover why they are such a mesmerizing and engaging quarry for hunters.


Mountain lions, also known as cougars or pumas, are the grandest and most formidable predators in North America. Their territory stretches across the western part of the United States, and they can be found inhabiting a diverse range of landscapes in New Mexico, from the arid deserts to the lush mountain forests.


New Mexico's mountain lion population is healthy and thriving, and it provides some of the most incredible hunting experiences in the nation. The New Mexico Department of Game and Fish meticulously monitors and regulates the state's lion population to maintain sustainability and ensure its continued vigor.


Hunting mountain lions in New Mexico is a truly exhilarating and demanding experience, requiring precision and acumen. These cunning predators are incredibly intelligent and possess remarkable sensory abilities, making them formidable quarry for even the most skilled hunters. With their lightning-fast speed and agility, they can sprint at a breakneck pace of up to 50 miles per hour and effortlessly leap up to 20 feet in a single bound, a feat that commands awe and respect.


If you are looking to hunt mountain lions in New Mexico, you must first obtain a special license from the New Mexico Department of Game and Fish, which permits you to participate in the state's regulated hunting season that typically spans from December to March. During this season, hunters have the option to use a variety of hunting methods, including hounds, spot and stalk, and baiting, to track and take down these magnificent predators.


One of the most popular hunting methods for mountain lions in New Mexico is with the aid of hounds, trained canines that can track and tree lions with remarkable efficiency. This technique demands skill, perseverance, and patience, as the hounds follow the lion's scent and alert the hunter to its location, enabling the hunter to take the perfect shot.


Spot and stalk hunting is another favored method used to hunt mountain lions in New Mexico. It requires you to spot a lion from a distance and then stealthily approach it on foot, reducing the distance until you are within firing range. This approach demands exceptional patience and skill, as you must be able to spot the lion from a distance and then stalk it without detection.


Baiting is yet another effective hunting method used to catch mountain lions in New Mexico. It involves placing bait in an area frequented by the lion, such as near a watering hole or game trail. Once the lion is lured in by the bait, you can take your shot.


To conclude, New Mexico's thriving population of mountain lions offers some of the best hunting opportunities in the nation. Whether you favor hounds, spot and stalk, or baiting, you can expect an unparalleled and challenging hunting experience. If you are looking to embark on an exciting and unforgettable hunting expedition, look no further than Find A Hunt, a trusted and seasoned hunting outfitter in New Mexico.