PC: Luke Dusenbury
A Long Time Coming
I have waited for nearly a year to share this incredibly special moment with everyone! When Under Armour asked me what I’m most passionate about and what species consumes my mind, I didn’t hesitate to say elk. I knew that’s what my film needed to be focused on. They’re the only animal that I dream about and they make me work harder in every area of my life, from the gym to reps with my bow, to giving every ounce to my job so I can afford to go chase them every year. If I’m thinking about hunting at all, it’s usually in regards to elk. There’s just nothing like hearing a bull bugle at 20 yards - I’ve been saying that since 2015 when I first experienced it. Then, add the challenge of chasing them with a bow and you’re going to be humbled really quick. I have failed way more than I’ve been successful, but it keeps me hungry for more.
2020 New Mexico Elk Camp
Left to Right: Braxton (husband), Me, Benny Fred (father-in-law), Chuck (pops), Candice (oldest sister), & Wade (brother-in-law)
a Redemption Story
I hadn’t killed an elk since 2015 (read about that hunt here) so having everything come together on opening morning during the 2020 season was something I’ll never forget. I was in wall tent camp with some very special people and my brother-in-law managed to get his very first archery elk too. My poor dad missed several, but he pushed hard through the end and never gave up. I’m still hopeful that we can change that this coming season - less than a month out!
This film truly shows the grit and determination that’s been building inside of me over the years. I felt like I needed to prove to myself what I was capable of, and to be honest, I wanted to throw it in the faces of those who have doubted me too. Whether or not that’s healthy, I’m not sure, but it kept me motivated to make it happen. Granted, the story took a turn when I released my arrow, but that made the ending so much sweeter. I know the Lord had a hand in this hunt, like He does on every hunt. I’m struggling to put everything into words, so I’ll let the film tell the story. 13 minutes sums up one of the highlights of my journey as a bowhunter. Enjoy!
How To Obtain a New Mexico Archery Elk Tag
New Mexico archery elk hunting will get in your blood really quick. It’s something special and I try to constantly remind myself how lucky I am to get to hunt them nearly every year. I’ve been fortunate enough to hunt elk (although not always for my own tag) in units 13, 15, 17 and 34, and I’ll be adding unit 37 to that list during the 2021 season because my husband drew 1 of 3 non-resident muzzleloader tags. It doesn’t take long to understand why they call it The Land of Enchantment. The hunting opportunity in that state is unreal, including free-ranging exotics. Keep in mind that New Mexico has a completely random draw system, meaning there’s not a point system in place to give you an idea of whether or not you’ll draw each year. You just have to play the game and start applying in hopes of drawing a tag! It truly feels like hitting the lotto when you get a tag there. Keep in mind that by putting in with an outfitter will basically double your chances of drawing in New Mexico, but obviously you have to pay the outfitting fees if you get a tag. If a guided hunt doesn’t interest you, then there’s no point in going that route. The other option is to purchase a unit wide landowner tag when they become available, which doesn’t require you to have a guide with you, but it takes a pretty penny to get one. I’d highly suggest keeping an eye on this page for all New Mexico opportunities - you can also refine your search on that page if you’d like.
All Photos by Luke Dusenbury