Best Strategies for Stalking Antelope in Open Terrain?

Choosing the Right Habitat

Antelope in New Mexico prefer open grasslands with sagebrush and juniper cover. Look for areas with a mix of grasses and forbs, as these provide both food and cover. Public lands managed by the US Forest Service and Bureau of Land Management (BLM) offer plenty of options. Some top areas include the Gila National Forest, the Apache National Forest, and the BLM’s Otero Mesa. Focus on areas with elevation around 6,000 to 7,000 feet, where antelope are most likely to congregate.

Stalking and Ambushing Techniques

To get close to antelope, use cover such as rock outcroppings, hills, and draws. Antelope have excellent eyesight, so move quietly and stay downwind. Use a spotter to glass for animals while you move into position. Once you’re within 100-200 yards, make a quick shot. Aim for the shoulder or chest area, as these are the largest targets. If you miss, be prepared to follow up with a second shot as quickly as possible. To increase your chances of success, hunt during the late season, when antelope are more active and concentrated in smaller areas.

Timing and Weather Considerations

Antelope are most active at dawn and dusk, so plan your hunt around these times. Aim to be in position 30 minutes to an hour before sunrise or sunset, when antelope are most active. Be prepared for extreme weather conditions, including high winds and temperatures. Use a windbreak or shelter to protect yourself from the elements, and stay hydrated and fueled throughout the hunt. In the high desert, be aware of the risk of lightning storms and thunderstorms, which can quickly develop in the late afternoon.