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New Mexico Department of Game & Fish
Draw Deadlines Are Fast Approaching
Key dates and action items for applications, harvest reporting, and youth requirements.
What to do right now
If you plan to hunt in the 2026–2027 season, the most important move is simple: don’t wait until the last minute.
Submitting early helps you avoid website traffic, long waits, and last-second stress.
Approaching deadlines
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Feb. 11 (before 5 p.m.) — Applications for bear and turkey draw hunts are due.
Apply online here
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Feb. 15 — Harvest reports for 2025–2026 deer, elk, pronghorn, and turkey are due.
Late submissions will incur an $8 fee.
Submit harvest report
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March 18 (before 5 p.m.) — Applications due for
Barbary sheep, bighorn sheep, deer, elk, ibex, javelina, pronghorn, and oryx.
Apply online here
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March 18 — Final day to submit late harvest reports (with $8 fee).
Failure to report will result in rejection of draw applications.
Submit harvest report
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April 7 — Harvest reports due for
Barbary sheep, ibex, javelina, and oryx.
Late submissions incur an $8 fee.
Submit harvest report
Reminder for youth hunters
Youth under 18 must complete a Hunter Education course prior to applying for the draw.
Classes fill quickly, so early registration is encouraged.
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View available in-person classes:
Click here
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Register for Hunter Education:
Online registration portal
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Online courses (including Spanish) available for ages 9+:
Learn more
