Deposit before application drawing

[Lapaiki39]

Is it legal for an outfitter in New Mexico to take a deposit even before the drawing application period? In order to use his outfitter # in the guided pool he is requesting a deposit of $500.00. I looked at the drawing odds for the areas we want to apply in as nonresidents and they don't look good for getting picked. Is this a common practice? Any thoughts and comments on this matter is greatly appreciated!

 

[2peterhunter]

It makes sense, this will in a sense hook you if you draw. I have heard of guys putting in thru an outfitter so they get into the higher percentage draw then hunting on their own.

 

[2peterhunter]

The rules changed on outfitters doing that this year and I am not sure what exactly they are.

 

[530Chukar]

Not sure about New Mexico but it's common in other states. Think of it as more of just a deposit on the hunt itself to reserve your space. This may be years in advance in some zones.

 

[realunlucky]

Not sure about New Mexico but it's common in other states. Think of it as more of just a deposit on the hunt itself to reserve your space. This may be years in advance in some zones.

New Mexico is different because it changes which draw pool your application goes in which is a direct reflect on draw odds. I know they discussed changing the rules but not sure what the current regulations are

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[hflier]

It is what my outfitter does each year and promptly refunds my deposit if I do not get drawn.

 

[Lapaiki39]

Due to my age and the low draw odds, I would be more than willing to pay a deposit if its refunded if not drawn.

 

[cbat]

Yep because by law you are supposed to have a contract with your outfitter. They have been checking some of the outfitters lately to make sure the are following the rules.