Hunting, Fishing and Shooting

With 1.1 million acres of diverse terrain, Lincoln National Forest provides excellent opportunities for hunting, fishing, and recreational shooting. Whether you’re tracking game through dense pine forests, casting a line in a mountain stream, or practicing marksmanship in designated areas, the forest offers a rugged and rewarding outdoor experience.

Hunting in Lincoln National Forest

Lincoln National Forest is prime hunting ground for a variety of big game, small game, and upland bird species. Managed by the New Mexico Department of Game & Fish (NMDGF), hunting in the forest requires proper licensing and adherence to state regulations.

Common Game Species

• Big Game: Elk, mule deer, black bear, mountain lion, and Barbary sheep (aoudad).
• Small Game: Squirrels, rabbits, and furbearers like bobcats and foxes.
• Birds: Wild turkey, quail, and migratory birds.

Best Hunting Areas by District

• Sacramento Ranger District – Dense forests and meadows, ideal for elk and deer hunting.
• Smokey Bear Ranger District – Mixed terrain with open ridges and thick cover, great for big game.
• Guadalupe Ranger District – Remote desert mountains, excellent for Barbary sheep and mountain lion.

Know Before You Go

• Licenses & Regulations: A valid NMDGF license is required. Check season dates, bag limits, and unit boundaries.
• Access & Motorized Use: Some areas are closed to vehicles—plan your access accordingly.
• Hunting Safety: Be aware of hikers, campers, and other recreationists. Follow firearm safety rules.

Fishing in Lincoln National Forest

Several creeks, streams, and reservoirs offer fishing opportunities for both beginner and experienced anglers.

Popular Fishing Spots

• Silver Springs Pond (Sacramento District) – A stocked pond near Cloudcroft, great for kids and families.
• Bonito Lake (Smokey Bear District) – Currently closed for restoration, but a historically popular trout-fishing destination.
• South Fork Rio Ruidoso (Smokey Bear District) – A beautiful stream with stocked and wild trout.

Know Before You Go

• Fishing License: A valid New Mexico fishing license is required for anglers 12 and older.
• Bag Limits & Regulations: Follow NMDGF rules on catch limits and bait restrictions.
• Clean & Preserve: Avoid introducing invasive species—clean gear before entering new waters.

Recreational Shooting in Lincoln National Forest

Target shooting is allowed in most areas of Lincoln National Forest unless otherwise posted. Shooters are responsible for safety, fire prevention, and cleaning up all spent shells and targets.

Designated & Popular Shooting Areas

• Forest Service Roads & Open Spaces – Many areas away from roads, trails, and campgrounds are suitable.
• Sacramento District Open Ranges – Some forest roads and dispersed areas allow for safe shooting practice.
• Guadalupe District Remote Sites – Isolated desert canyons provide natural backstops.

Know Before You Go

• Safe Backstops: Always shoot against a solid earthen background to prevent ricochets.
• Distance from Roads & Trails: Shooting is prohibited within 150 yards of roads, trails, and developed sites.
• Fire Prevention: Steel-core and tracer rounds are prohibited due to wildfire risk.
• Pack It Out: Targets, shells, and casings must be cleaned up after use.

For shooting regulations and safety guidelines, visit the USFS Recreational Shooting Guide.

Plan Your Outdoor Experience

Whether you’re hunting for big game, casting a line in a mountain stream, or practicing your marksmanship, Lincoln National Forest provides diverse and exciting opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts.

For updated maps, seasonal restrictions, and permits use these links.

Search for Hunting, Fishing and Shooting Opportunities