Hunting FAQ's

How are the Trophy Mule Deer Tags Allocated?

There are up to 7 trophy mule deer licenses issued by random draw; there are no preference points or preferential treatment for previous hunters. All applicants have an equal chance.

There are up to 5 trophy mule deer licenses issued to the highest bidder through live or sealed bid auctions; details are available in the annual hunting proclamation.

What are the odds for drawing a Trophy Mule Deer Tag?

The odds for drawing a Trophy Mule Deer Tag ranges from 7-10% each year.

How do I apply for an Over-the-Counter License?

Over-the-counter (OTC) licenses are issued first come, first serve each year. To reserve a license, simply call the JGFD office on or after the OTC date. We will take down your information and hold the license(s) for 5 business days, pending receipt of OTC application form and license fees.

How do I apply for a Draw License?

High-demand big-game licenses are issued through a random draw process, with an equal chance to draw each year (no preference system). To apply: download, print, and complete a draw hunt application form.  Applicants must submit a $50/person/species non-refundable wildlife stamp and application fee on or before the respective draw application deadline. There are two draw deadlines (Spring or Fall), depending on the species and seasons you are interested in applying for:

• Spring: spring bear and mountain lion (March deadline)
• Fall: Cow elk, mule deer (June deadline) 

Draws are conducted shortly after the draw deadline and successful applicants will be notified. Licenses will be issued after the remaining license fees is received (within 30 business days).

Where do I stay while hunting the Jicarilla?

Most of our hunting guests stay at the WildHorse Casino and Hotel in Dulce, NM (575) 759-3663.

Camping at any of the Nation's recreational lakes is free with any valid hunting or fishing permit.  

What about post-hunt (butcher, taxidermy) services?

The Department operates a skinning facility with a walk-in cooler for hunters. This provides a place to temporarily store meat (2-days) while acommodations can be made at local butcher shops. Dulce does not have a butcher shop, however nearby towns offer a variety of meat processing services, including overnight shipping, rush-order cut, wrap and freeze, and more.

Where is the closest airport to the Jicarilla?

The nearest commercial airport is the Albuquerque International Sunport, which is roughly 3.5 hour drive from Dulce, NM.  Other smaller airports within 1-3 hour drive include Durango, CO, Pagosa Springs, CO, Santa Fe, NM.