Unit 31 (South of US 380) (Unit 31 South of US 380)

New Mexico Hunting Guide — Pronghorn

The southern portion of GMU 31 below US 380 covers the open grassland basin and lava field terrain of central New Mexico's Jornada del Muerto region. This classic Chihuahuan Desert grassland unit supports pronghorn in sweeping open country with BLM and state trust public access. The NMDGF manages tags specifically for this sub-unit to address the distinct pronghorn population dynamics south of the highway.

View Draw Odds New Mexico Hunting Guide

Pronghorn Hunting in Unit 31 (South of US 380)

Where to Find Pronghorn in GMU 31 South of US 380

Pronghorn in the southern GMU 31 sub-unit occupy the Jornada del Muerto grassland and adjacent mesa terrain. The wide-open desert grassland makes pronghorn visible from extreme distances.

Jornada del Muerto Grassland Basin

The broad basin floor holds the highest pronghorn concentrations. BLM road access points give access to multiple glassing vantages. Glass at first light before midday heat reduces visible activity.

Lava Flow Edges and Mesa Breaks

Pronghorn use the edges of ancient lava flows and mesa breaks for shelter from wind. These structural features are reliable locations to check when glass-work on the open flats comes up empty.

How to Hunt GMU 31 (South of US 380) Pronghorn

Desert grassland pronghorn hunting in the southern GMU 31 sub-unit is a pure spot-and-stalk pursuit across some of New Mexico's most open country.

Vehicle-Based Glassing Circuits

Drive the BLM road network in the pre-dawn darkness and stop at all elevated road points to glass as light develops. Cover 20–30 miles of road before attempting any stalk — knowing where multiple herds are before committing saves wasted stalks.

Waterhole Ambush

During the heat of August season, desert pronghorn visit water reliably once or twice daily. Identify BLM and NMDGF wildlife water catchments in the sub-unit and set up ground blinds 150+ yards downwind the evening before your hunt.

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Pronghorn Success Rates

Pronghorn rifle success in the open desert grassland south of US 380 typically runs 55–70%. The wide-open terrain gives hunters excellent visibility and clear shooting opportunities once a successful stalk is made.

Pronghorn Draw Odds

Season	Tags	Applicants	Draw %
Rifle— Draw	35	696	5.0%
Archery— Draw	42	202	20.8%
Rifle— Draw	35	837	4.2%
Archery— Draw	42	189	22.2%
Rifle— Draw	5	151	3.3%
Rifle— Draw	5	21	23.8%

Data from 2021 draw results. Resident odds shown.

Open in Draw Odds Engine

New Mexico's random draw gives all applicants equal odds. The 31 South of US 380 sub-unit sees moderate competition. The sub-unit designation means only hunters applying for this specific hunt code are in the pool. Check NMDGF draw odds reports for current ratios.

Unit Logistics & Expectations

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between GMU 31 and GMU 31 south of US 380?

NMDGF manages the unit with separate hunt codes for the areas north and south of US 380. The southern sub-unit has its own tag quota and hunt code. Make sure you apply for and hold the correct hunt code for your intended hunting area.

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Sources & Verification

Every fact on this page is tied to a primary source below. Last fact-checked 2026-04-17.

NMDGF Hunting — New Mexico Department of Game and Fish · supports: Unit boundaries, Season dates, License quotas · accessed 2026-04-17
NMDGF Hunting by Species — New Mexico Department of Game and Fish · supports: Pronghorn management overview, GMU eligibility, Season structure · accessed 2026-04-17
2024 Big Game Hunt Booklet — New Mexico Department of Game and Fish · supports: Hunt codes, Sub-unit boundaries at US 380, Tag quotas by sub-unit · accessed 2026-04-17