WILDERNESS HUNTS:
Wilderness hunts are conducted on a variety of public hunting lands to which True Grit Trophy Outfitters, LLC has obtained access by permits acquired from the U.S. Forest Service, Bureau of Land Management, etc.

Due to conservation efforts and limited licenses issued by the New Mexico Department of Game & Fish (NMGF), the quality of game is basically equivalent to that on private ranches. Because we do not have to pay for access to the land, wilderness hunts are more economical. The accommodations, ratio of guides to hunters, camp size, transportation during the hunt, trophy and meat care are the same for wilderness or private ranch hunts. Wilderness hunts are available for all species of big game legally hunted in the state of New Mexico. Some species require application to the NMGF lottery draw system, while others can be purchased over the counter.

The biggest disadvantages to wilderness hunting are hunter pressure and planning. Because this public hunting land we have no control over the number or conduct of other hunters on this land. Also, there is no guarantee that you will draw a tag for which you have applied. NMGF sets an application deadline for all lottery draw hunts. If you opt for a wilderness hunt we will be happy to assist in the application process.

PRIVATE RANCH HUNTS:
Private ranch hunts are available for elk, mule deer, pronghorn antelope, black bear, mountain lion, Merriam's turkey, ferral hog, and antelope. Ranch hunts are more expensive because of land access and management fees.

The main advantages to a private ranch hunt are a lack of hunter pressure and planning. Because we have complete control over these ranches for the purpose of hunting we limit the number of hunters and exercise management techniques to help develop truly trophy animals. Because this hunt has a guaranteed license it is much easier for you to plan your trip when you know well in advance when your hunt is scheduled.

With the exception of a limited number of unit -wide permits, when you book a ranch hunt you are scheduled for a specific ranch on a specific date. Another advantage over the wilderness hunt is that the application deadline required for lottery draw licenses does not apply; therefore, if space is available you can book a private ranch hunt even if you miss the deadline.