FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Requirements of Booking with a hunting outfitter in New Mexico
Who is considered a client of an Outfitter?
A client is any individual that signs a contract to utilize the hunting services of a registered outfitter.
How do I file a complaint against an Outfitter?
To file a complaint against an Outfitter or Guide member of NMCOG please email [email protected]. To file a complaint against an Outfitter or Guide who is not an member of NMCOG you must go through the NM Dept. of Game and Fish. To report a poaching please contact Operation Game Thief by calling 1-800-432-4263.
Do I have to engage in a written contract with an Outfitter?
Yes! NM State Law requires that outfitters provide a written contract for any big game outfitting services. Clients are responsible for understanding the details of the written contract as well as the services agreed upon. For hunting licenses obtained through the Big Game Draw, contracts must be signed and executed prior to applying to be entered into the 10% special draw pool. It is unlawful for a hunter to use an Outfitter's number to apply for the Big Game Draw without having a valid and signed Hunter/Outfitter contract.
Does the Outfitter need to physically accompany me on my hunt?
Yes! An Outfitter, or their hired and guide, shall ensure that the client is accompanied by a registered guide or outfitter for at least two days while the hunters license is valid. Outfitters shall provide one registered guide or outfitter in the field for every four hunters.
Can a landowner operate hunts on their public lease land without being a registered NM outfitter?
No! In order for an individual to conduct business on any portion of public land they must possess a special use permit issued by the land management agency. As a condition of the "special use permit" of all land management agencies (Forest Service, BLM, and the NM State Land Office) to operate hunts on public land an individual must be a NMDGF registered outfitter.
CAN YOU HUNT WITH A GUIDE WHO IS NOT EMPLOYED BY AN OUTFITTER?
No! In New Mexico a hunting guide must work for a legally licensed outfitter. It is illegal to hunt with a licensed guide who is not working under an outfitter.
Little known regulations to hunt Bureau of Land Management
Did you know the following activities are illegal on all blm lands in new mexico?
- Engaging in any hunting activity that can be viewed as creating a hazard which puts someone at risk.
- Crossing private land without permission to get to BLM land - Don't do it, ever.
- Shooting within 150 yards of any building, occupied area, or livestock - If you see any of these things, move far, far away.
- If you engage in any of these activities, you could lose your license to guide in New Mexico
What if my outfitted hunt is near an area where the public recreates?
If you conduct, or participate in, a hunt near an area where the public recreates, such as a recreation site or area, or near something the public is likely to use such as a parking lot, hiking trail, picnic table or vaulted toilet, you run a serious risk of being in violation of federal law (43 CFR § 8365.1-4(2)). And it doesn't matter if no one is around. The law uses a general standard and errs on the side of public safety. So, if you see anything that indicates the public may frequent the area, play it safe and find a different area to hunt if you want to avoid any risk of losing your license. Your livelihood and the public's safety depends on it.
what happens if a hunter or outfitter is hunts in a blm recreation area?
You could lose your hunting license. And outfitters can lose their ability to operate hunts in New Mexico
are there any helpful links or maps for conducting hunts on blm lands?
Yes!
- https://www.blm.gov/programs/recreation/recreation-activities/hunting-fishing
- https://www.blm.gov/maps/frequently-requested/new-mexico/hunting-maps
- https://www.blm.gov/programs/recreation/recreation-activities/new-mexico (recreational areas outfitters should avoid)
- Make sure to review the BLM specific rules on page 45 of the 2026 Rules and Information Booklet
Core Roles of Hunting Permits
wildlife management & conservation
Hunting licenses and permits allow wildlife agencies to control the number of animals taken (bag limits), protect biodiversity, and maintain healthy ecosystem balances.
funding conservation
Fees from hunting and fishing licenses and permits directly fund the New Mexico Dept. of Wildlife agency operations, including scientific research, personnel, and habitat restoration.
public safety & ethics
Permits ensure hunters have passed safety courses, reducing accidents and regulating safety in public areas.
disease control
Hunting permits help monitor and manage disease like Lyme disease and rabies by controlling the animal population.
How do i report illegal hunting activity
You can support responsible wildlife management and conservation by reporting illegal hunting activities. Report any illegal activity to Operation Game Thief (800) 432-4263