Bighorn Sheep<\/a><\/strong> \u2014 a coveted, highly competitive draw hunt.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\nFrequently Asked Questions<\/h2>\n\n\n\nWhat are the 2026 quail season dates in New Mexico?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Quail season runs from November 15, 2026 through February 15, 2027, with a daily bag limit of 15 birds. It’s the longest upland season in the state and one of the most beginner-accessible hunts New Mexico offers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
When does dove season open in New Mexico for 2026?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Dove season opens September 1, 2026 and runs through November 20, 2026, with a 15-bird daily limit. That September 1 date is the earliest opener of the entire game bird calendar, so confirm exact timing in the Migratory Game Bird Supplement as your trip approaches.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
How much is a non-resident hunting license in New Mexico?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Non-resident general hunting licenses start around $94, plus additional costs for HMAV and a habitat stamp if you’re hunting public land. Exact package pricing varies, so confirm the current total on the NMDOW portal before purchasing.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
What is HMAV and do I need it?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
HMAV stands for Habitat Management & Access Validation, and it’s a mandatory once-per-license-year requirement for every hunter 18 and older. Both residents and non-residents need it, with an exception for hunters holding a lifetime license.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Do I need hunter education to hunt game birds in New Mexico?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Yes, if you’re a first-time license buyer born after January 1, 1971, hunter-education certification is required before you can purchase a license. This applies equally to residents and non-residents planning their first New Mexico hunt.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
When is the pheasant WMA season and who can hunt it?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Pheasant season runs December 11 through 14, 2026, with a limit of 2 birds daily and 10 for the season. It’s restricted to specific Wildlife Management Areas and available only through a resident-only special draw, so apply early through NMDOW since permits are competitive.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The Final Shot<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Planning a New Mexico bird hunt for 2026-27 comes down to three things: knowing your dates and limits, squaring away your license and HMAV, and locking in where you’ll actually hunt. Dove opens September 1 and quail runs clear through mid-February, so there’s a wide window to work with, but land access and guided opportunities tend to fill up early. Confirm your final dates with NMDOW and the Migratory Game Bird Supplement before you head out, since regulations can shift year to year.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
To get started, browse available New Mexico leases<\/a> and lock in your access for the 2026-27 season.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"
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