The monsoonal flow this year could extend into the first part of Sept. Most of the state has been affected. It hasn’t been this wet since 2016. And I don’t recall that we had this much rain then. In 2016 I saw pictures of bow hunters standing in the bed of their trucks wit their gear as the truck floated down the road. That was on Bursum Rd in the Gila. Obviously this summer there has been a lot more debris flow from the burn scar areas. That means boulders and trees will be laying across the two dirt track paths that we call mountain roads down here. This applies to most elk units in New Mexico. Bring a UTV side by (with a winch) that can haul gear around if if you can. My UTV has a bed large enough to haul out an elk and gear for two people, just to give you an idea.
One minute the sun will be out and the next will be lightening and rain blowing sideways. With a storm, the arroyos will be full of rushing water with logs in seconds! You will need some good, really good, rain gear and boots. I wear knee high cordura waterproof boots that can breathe. Must keep your feet dry or you will have foot problems. I used to put an extra pair of socks and foot powder in my day pack, just to give you an idea. And you will need a place where you can dry out your gear, clothes, boots, at the end of the day. It can get really nasty quickly. Sometimes the mornings are dry but conditions change at the drop of a hat. As long as you are prepared, I think you should have a pleasurable hunt. I have a first rifle tag in an awesome unit so I am stoked to say the least. Good luck to all and be safe!
One minute the sun will be out and the next will be lightening and rain blowing sideways. With a storm, the arroyos will be full of rushing water with logs in seconds! You will need some good, really good, rain gear and boots. I wear knee high cordura waterproof boots that can breathe. Must keep your feet dry or you will have foot problems. I used to put an extra pair of socks and foot powder in my day pack, just to give you an idea. And you will need a place where you can dry out your gear, clothes, boots, at the end of the day. It can get really nasty quickly. Sometimes the mornings are dry but conditions change at the drop of a hat. As long as you are prepared, I think you should have a pleasurable hunt. I have a first rifle tag in an awesome unit so I am stoked to say the least. Good luck to all and be safe!
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