Trying to wade through the NM regs.  For a non-resident applying to a Q/HD Elk tag do you have to purchase the hunting license before you draw?  If that is the case, then if you do not draw the actual hunting license (not the elk tag) is forfeited you don't get a refund?

It is my understanding that if you do not draw the tag you are the proud owner of a new mexico hunting license and no tag. It is the cost of playing the tag lottery.  Gabe

Dave if you state in your application that you want a refund for the license you will get it back. Here's a copy & paste from the regs. BUT why waste your money hunting New Mexico when there are states where you have a good chance of getting an elk. Too many people I know, myself included, have gone out and not even seen an elk let alone had a chance to get a shot. NM is highly over rated and mismanaged.
IMHO
 

QuoteApplication and full license fees are charged at the time the application is submitted. Unsuccessful
draw applicants will receive a full refund for the draw license, minus the application fee
Unsuccessful draw applicants also may receive a full refund of the Game Hunting License fee, if
requested at the time of application.

I've never understood the wording of that or why there's even an option to not get a refund.  Why would anyone not want a refund. NM is a luck of the draw state so it's not like you're purchasing a bonus point with your licese fee like AZ.

I have been looking at New Mexico myself lately. The fact that it is a straight draw holds appeal for the better units (if you don't get in early). The only advantage I see is for someone who normally hunts there anyway. Probably living in a nearby state. I always assumed the western boys have have a two or three state draw plan.

If you are a resident you MIGHT want the hunting license

Its totally silly requirement.  Non-residents should NOT have to buy a license until they draw a tag - we CANT hunt there without drawing a tag, and with such LOW drawing odds it makes NO sense.

It's all part of the game I guess.  You gotta pay to play. I believe this will be my 13th year applying for elk in NM and I've drawn exactly zero tags.  But hey...this is my year, I feel it.

I don't mind paying to hunt - but there is something just wrong in making a Non-Resident purchase a license they can never USE.  I think the near $800 is enough of a pay for those that get drawn.

QuoteOriginally posted by DaveT1963:
Its totally silly requirement.  Non-residents should NOT have to buy a license until they draw a tag - we CANT hunt there without drawing a tag, and with such LOW drawing odds it makes NO sense.

As DaveT1963's tag line says "Everything has a price - the more we accept, the more the cost".

Utah requires the general hunting license be purchased, period.  It's a form of state sanctioned extortion.  Their response to you would be "if you don't like it, don't apply".

I'm not trying to ignite a firestorm with my "extortion" comment.  It is what it is.  I pay it every year to get my Utah points.  It's a cost I'm willing to pay for a future opportunity. YMMV.

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