tuckermica
FNG
- Joined
- Jan 17, 2025
- Messages
- 14
How’s it going, guys. I’m looking for some direction and hoping to get some feedback from those with more experience than me.
I was lucky enough to pull a Non‑Resident New Mexico Unit 16 antelope rifle tag, and I’m pretty fired up about it, realistically, this is probably a once‑in‑a‑lifetime tag. Because of that, I’m trying to be thoughtful about how I approach the hunt.
Here’s my dilemma. I don’t know a ton about antelope, and I’ve never hunted them before. Like everyone else, I’d love to kill a big buck if the opportunity presents itself. I’m considering hiring a guide mainly for their local knowledge and field‑judging experience, but I have no interest in staying in lodges or Airbnbs. I’ve done 10+ day bear hunts out of a tent, and archery elk hunts, have all the gear I need, and I’m completely comfortable living under the stars.
That said, I also recognize what I don’t know. I’ve never been in the unit, I know antelope are sharp‑eyed animals, and I understand there’s a learning curve. I make a good living, but I’m 27 and getting married this year, so money matters, though it’s not the biggest factor. I’d feel fine spending some money if it truly adds value, but I don’t want a “fly in, pull the trigger, fly out” experience. I want to learn, hunt hard, and actually earn it.
So, I’m curious, if you were in my shoes, what would you do? DIY and lean into the learning experience, or utilize a guide in some capacity? I’d appreciate any insight or advice. Thanks in advance.
I was lucky enough to pull a Non‑Resident New Mexico Unit 16 antelope rifle tag, and I’m pretty fired up about it, realistically, this is probably a once‑in‑a‑lifetime tag. Because of that, I’m trying to be thoughtful about how I approach the hunt.
Here’s my dilemma. I don’t know a ton about antelope, and I’ve never hunted them before. Like everyone else, I’d love to kill a big buck if the opportunity presents itself. I’m considering hiring a guide mainly for their local knowledge and field‑judging experience, but I have no interest in staying in lodges or Airbnbs. I’ve done 10+ day bear hunts out of a tent, and archery elk hunts, have all the gear I need, and I’m completely comfortable living under the stars.
That said, I also recognize what I don’t know. I’ve never been in the unit, I know antelope are sharp‑eyed animals, and I understand there’s a learning curve. I make a good living, but I’m 27 and getting married this year, so money matters, though it’s not the biggest factor. I’d feel fine spending some money if it truly adds value, but I don’t want a “fly in, pull the trigger, fly out” experience. I want to learn, hunt hard, and actually earn it.
So, I’m curious, if you were in my shoes, what would you do? DIY and lean into the learning experience, or utilize a guide in some capacity? I’d appreciate any insight or advice. Thanks in advance.
