2026-27 Pueblo of Laguna Hunting Proclamation

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Pueblo of Laguna Council Resolution Number: 24-26

Hunting on the Pueblo of Laguna is a privilege, not a right.

All hunters on Pueblo of Laguna lands shall adhere to Pueblo and Federal rules and regulations.

Pueblo of Laguna

Natural Resources Program

Physical Address: 22 Bay Tree Road, Bldg. 2

Paraje, New Mexico 87007

Mailing Address: P.O. Box 194

Laguna, New Mexico 87026

Telephone:

(505) 552-7512 or (505) 552-5050

Fax:

(505) 552-9770

Email:

info.nr@pol-nsn.gov

Website:

https://www.lagunapueblo-nsn.gov/

Table of Contents

SECTION 1: IMPORTANT INFORMATION AND DEADLINES ........................................................................... 1

Important Dates And Deadlines ................................................................................................................ 1

Important Contact Information ................................................................................................................ 1

Important Information .............................................................................................................................. 1

Poaching Hurts Everyone!......................................................................................................................... 2

SECTION 2: LEGAL ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS ................................................................................................... 2

SECTION 3: GENERAL INFORMATION ........................................................................................................... 3

Permit Eligibility ........................................................................................................................................ 3

General Application Procedure* ............................................................................................................... 4

Draw Information...................................................................................................................................... 4

Over-the-Counter Sales Information ........................................................................................................ 5

Rain Check Policy ...................................................................................................................................... 5

Unpaid or Forfeited Hunts ........................................................................................................................ 5

Types of Hunts .......................................................................................................................................... 6

Permits ...................................................................................................................................................... 6

Rules and Regulations Defining Legal Big Game Animals for Harvest ...................................................... 9

Prohibited Actions..................................................................................................................................... 9

Manner and Method of Lawful Harvest of Big Game ............................................................................. 10

Ammunition ............................................................................................................................................ 10

Use of Dogs in a Hunt.............................................................................................................................. 10

Mandatory Big Game Harvest Reporting ................................................................................................ 11

Small Game and Trapping Harvest Reporting ......................................................................................... 11

Transportation, Possession, Evidence of Sex and Species Requirements .............................................. 11

Tagging .................................................................................................................................................... 11

Wildlife Donation .................................................................................................................................... 12

Notification of Wounded Animal Leaving Reservation ........................................................................... 12

Hunting Unit Closures during Big Game Hunts ....................................................................................... 12

Guiding or Outfitting ............................................................................................................................... 12

Hunter’s Code of Ethics........................................................................................................................... 12

SECTION 4: SPECIFIC RULES AND REGULATIONS FOR TRIBAL MEMBERS ................................................... 13

Restrictions for Tribal Hunts ................................................................................................................... 13

SECTION 5: SPECIFIC RULES AND REGULATIONS FOR NON-TRIBAL MEMBERS .......................................... 13

Non-Tribal Member Hunter Rules and Regulations................................................................................ 13

Cultural Elk Hunts – (Other Tribes) ......................................................................................................... 13

Non-Tribal Member Hunter Assistant (HA) Requirements ..................................................................... 14

Camping Requirements for Non-Tribal Members .................................................................................. 14

APPENDIX A: GLOSSARY .............................................................................................................................. 15

APPENDIX B: HOW TO COMPLETE A BIG GAME APPLICATION ................................................................... 17

APPENDIX C: HOW TO COMPLETE A HARVEST REPORT ............................................................................. 18

APPENDIX D: OVERVIEW MAP OF HUNTING AREAS ................................................................................... 19

APPENDIX E: HUNT CODES, HUNT INFORMATION, AND DATES ................................................................. 20

APPENDIX F: PUEBLO OF LAGUNA BIG GAME APPLICATION ...................................................................... 22

SECTION 1: IMPORTANT INFORMATION AND DEADLINES

Important Dates and Deadlines

•

Archery Qualification Deadline for Draw

June 25, 2026

(Schedule a qualification time by calling 552-7512 or emailing info.nr@pol-nsn.gov)

General Application Deadline for Draw – postmarked by 11:59 pm

June 26, 2026

Draw Date at 10 am – In-person

July 14, 2026

Payment Deadline for Awarded Draw Permits

July 27, 2026

Over-the-Counter Sales begin at 8:00 am

August 6, 2026

Important Contact Information

•

Pueblo of Laguna (POL) Access Permits – POL Secretary’s Office

POL Emergency – Public Safety/Police

Natural Resources Program

Natural Resources Manager

Pueblo of Acoma Police

Pueblo of Acoma Department of Natural Resources

(505) 552-6654

(505) 552-6666

(505) 552-7512/5050

(505) 552-5052

(505) 552-6601/6602

(505) 552-5117

Important Information

•

If you hunted in the previous season and did not submit a completed harvest report, then you

are ineligible to hunt for three years. A $50.00 late harvest report fee must be paid to waive the

three-year ineligibility penalty. A late harvest report fee will be applied for each harvest report

that is late. The harvest report and late fees must be submitted before an application is

accepted.

The Bell Rock hunting unit (#6) is closed for Any Legal Weapon hunts.

Incomplete applications will not be accepted.

Payment for permits awarded in the Draw must be paid by the deadline specified under the

“Important Dates and Deadlines” or the permit will be forfeited.

Non-Tribal Member POL employees will be offered a discounted rate on elk, barbary sheep, and

tahr permits during the Over-the-Counter sales period (see Section 3, Permits, 6.).

Only the permitted hunter is allowed to harvest, unless accommodations are granted (see

Disabled Hunters subsection).

Unpaid permits will be sold Over-the-Counter.

Request for cultural hunts from the village Mayordomos, schools, and organizations must be

submitted to the Natural Resources Program by the first Friday of September.

Depredation permit requests can be made by village officials. The Natural Resources Program

(NRP) will evaluate each request before a permit is issued.

Replacement permits/tags are $10.00 for all hunters.

Application fees and late harvest report fees are deposited into the Turn in Poachers Program

(TIPP’s) fund. Permit fees will be deposited into the General Fund.

•

Campfires are prohibited during active Pueblo of Laguna fire restrictions. Hunters must check

the POL website for updates (https://www.lagunapueblo-nsn.gov/departments/environmentaland-natural-resources/natural-resources-program/hunting-information/).

The Mount Taylor Game Ranch and Silver Dollar Ranch management units require a gate

combination to enter the property. Hunters must call or email the Natural Resources Program

10 days prior to their hunt for the gate combination.

Jackward unit hunters and hunter’s assistants must obtain an access permit from the Pueblo of

Acoma (POA) Department of Natural Resources prior to traveling through POA lands (contact

information above).

All permits must be signed.

Sidearms are allowable for the permitted archery hunters for personal defense. If an archery

hunter discharges a firearm during their hunt, they must notify the Natural Resources Program

and POL Public Safety Department.

Copper bullets are still available to hunters that request rounds.

Poaching Hurts Everyone!

•

Poaching is ILLEGAL and defined as taking or attempting to take an animal without a valid

permit, hunting on another person’s permit, or attempting to take species that are not indicated

on the issued big game/small game permit. Poaching will result in the following: immediate

termination of the hunt, seizure of any firearms in possession at the time of violation, and loss

of future hunting privileges on the Pueblo of Laguna. Other civil penalties will apply.

Repeat poachers will lose Laguna hunting privileges for LIFE!

Be aware of what is legal and what is not. All hunters are responsible for knowing all rules and

regulations before going into the field.

Only a permitted hunter is allowed to shoot, unless an accommodation is granted by the NRP.

This accommodation will be noted on the approved hunting permit.

Persons witnessing any illegal or suspicious activity have the responsibility to call the Laguna

Police Department at (505) 552-6666.

Questions regarding the hunting proclamation may be directed to the NRP at (505) 552-7512 or

(505) 552-5050.

A $500 award will be offered for information leading to the prosecution of poachers.

SECTION 2: LEGAL ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS

1. Applicability of Pueblo and Federal Laws

a. Any person violating the law on the Pueblo of Laguna (POL) is subject to prosecution in

Pueblo or Federal court.

b. The Natural Resources Program, and the Public Safety Department staff are exempt

from this Proclamation and the Wildlife Code when conducting authorized activities.

2. Criminal Background Investigations

a. The Pueblo reserves the right to investigate the criminal background of any person who

applies for a permit or purchases any hunting permit. By signing the application, you are

authorizing a background check.

b. If you have been convicted (or pled guilty) to a domestic violence charge or felony

charge after 2008, or have a domestic restraining order issued against you in any

jurisdiction, it is unlawful to hunt with a firearm on the Pueblo of Laguna. Hunters that

have been convicted can only apply for archery hunts.

3. Signed Consent

a. A hunting permit must be signed to be valid. Unsigned permits in the hunting unit will

be confiscated and the hunter will be subject to trespassing and/or poaching laws.

b. By signing a Pueblo of Laguna Big Game Hunting Application or Hunter’s Assistant (HA)

Agreement Form – the hunter or HA attests that they have read and understand the

Proclamation, accepts and agrees to be legally bound by Pueblo of Laguna laws,

ordinances, rules and regulations and is subject to both civil and criminal penalties.

c. Failure to comply with the laws, ordinances, and rules and regulations will result in the

immediate termination of your hunt, suspension, and loss of hunting privileges on the

Pueblo, and other legal action as appropriate.

SECTION 3: GENERAL INFORMATION

Permit Eligibility

Requirements and Information

1. All applications will be reviewed for ineligibility (ineligible applicants will be notified in writing).

Hunters may be ineligible for the following reasons:

a. Failure to submit harvest reports or pay fees

b. Violations of the Proclamation

c. Violations of the Wildlife Code

d. Wildlife violations in any jurisdiction

e. Other ineligibility factors include felonies and/or convictions that prevent the carrying of

a firearm. (Individuals with this ineligibility factor can apply for an archery hunt).

2. All hunters must submit a completed application and pass a background check

3. Archery hunters must successfully complete an archery qualification test (or have an active

qualification test on file) before submitting an application.

4. All hunters must be in possession of a valid POL big game permit to hunt, take, possess, or

transport any big game on the Pueblo.

5. Hunters and hunter assistants must have their permit in possession while in the field.

6. A Hunter Education (HE) card is REQUIRED for all youth hunters. A HE card must be submitted

with a hunting application.

General Application Procedure*

*Read the “Types of Hunts” and “Permits” subsections for any additional information

Applying for Tribal or Non-Tribal Draw Hunts

1. The applicant must complete all personal information on the Pueblo of Laguna Big Game

Application (Appendix F). Incomplete applications will not be processed.

a. Applicants are eligible to apply for three big game hunts.

b. Select hunt codes from Appendix E, then enter in the Draw “Hunt Code Section" of

application.

c. Mule deer hunts are by Draw only (these hunts are not automatically available to Tribal

Member disabled, elders, veterans, or youth hunters).

d. A hunt code cannot be entered more than once in the “Hunt Code Section” of a big

game application.

If a hunt code is entered more than once, the applicant will only be entered for the

first entry.

2. Submit application with a $10 application fee to the Natural Resources Program via mail, email

(scanned application to info.nr@pol-nsn.gov) or in-person.

a. Tribal Members that are elders, disabled, youth, or veterans do not pay application or

permit fees.

b. The NRP will accept money orders, cashier’s checks, cash and credit/debit card

payments. Personal/business checks will not be accepted. Payment by credit card can

be done over the phone.

c. All hunters: send only the application fee with the application. Do not send the permit

fee until you have been selected for a hunt. The NRP will contact individuals that are

drawn for a permit.

d. One big game application per individual.

Draw Information

1. The Draw will be at the ENRD building.

2. During the Draw only, three additional permits are available to Laguna elders for pronghorn, elk,

turkey, cougar, and bear hunts.

a. If there are more than three elder applicants for a hunt code (i.e. PRP1-11), then a Draw

will be conducted (excluding mule deer).

3. Successfully drawn applicants will be notified either by mail or email (if available). Names will be

posted at the ENRD Building, the POL website (https://www.lagunapueblo-nsn.gov/), the POL

Administration Building, and other POL buildings.

a. A non-refundable permit fee will be due for all drawn hunters (see Section 1, Important

Dates and Deadlines). Permit fees can be paid on or before the deadline. Late payment

will not be accepted and the permit will be forfeited.

b. Permits cannot be transferred, loaned or borrowed by another individual.

c. Hunting permits are only valid within the hunting unit indicated on the permit.

Over-the-Counter Sales Information

1. Over-the-Counter (OTC) sales will begin at 8:00 am at the ENRD building (see Section 1,

Important Dates and Deadlines for OTC date).

2. Individuals will be assigned a number based on position in line. Individuals will be called in

ascending order to select from available hunting permits. Numbers will be distributed at 6 am.

3. Individuals are allowed to submit two (2) applications (self and another hunter).

4. Applicants must submit a completed Pueblo of Laguna Big Game Application and complete the

OTC “Hunt Code Section” of the hunting application (refer to the General Application

Procedure).

5. A $10.00 application fee must be submitted with an application.

a. Hunters that submitted a hunting application for the current season’s big game Draw do

not pay an application fee.

6. A background check must be completed before a permit can be purchased.

a. Applicants without a completed background check can select from the available hunting

permits. The permit(s) will be reserved for 5 business days after the background check is

completed. Permits will be made available OTC if not purchased within the 5-day

reserve period.

7. Archers must pass a qualification test before purchasing an archery permit (archery permits

will not be reserved for unqualified archers).

8. Incomplete applications will not be accepted.

Rain Check Policy

1. All hunters unable to hunt due to an emergency, illness (including COVID-19), or injury may

petition to the NRP for a hunt the following year.

Emergencies include a death in the family and/or health issues that limit the ability to

hunt.

2. The hunter must submit documentation regarding the emergency, illness, or injury.

3. The NRP will evaluate each petition on a case-by-case basis; however, the NRP reserves the right

to deny any petition.

4. Hunters that are quarantined during their hunt must provide documentation stating the dates of

quarantine by the New Mexico Department of Health or EOC staff.

5. All hunting and application fees are non-refundable.

Unpaid or Forfeited Hunts

1. Unpaid or forfeited permits will be made available Over-the-Counter.

2. All fees are non-refundable and permits are nontransferable.

Types of Hunts

1. There are three types of hunts offered:

a. Any Legal Weapon –

i. A hunt on which the permitted animal may be taken using a rifle, shotgun, or

pistol.

b. Muzzle Loader –

i. A hunt on which the permitted animal may be taken using a muzzle loader.

c. Archery –

i. A hunt on which the permitted animal may be taken using a bow, excluding

crossbow.

ii. Archery hunters must qualify by the date specified in Section 1, Important Dates

and Deadlines to be included in the Draw.

iii. All archers must pass an archery qualification test or have on record that they

are qualified prior to submitting a hunting application. The test is below:

1) The archer will shoot at three animal targets ranging from 20-35 yards.

2) Two shot attempts per animal target.

a. One arrow must hit the vitals area of the animal target.

b. Archers can use any instrument/tool to determine distance.

c. Each shot attempt can take no longer than 60 seconds,

beginning at the nock of an arrow.

iv. Archers can qualify anytime during the year, unless a deadline is specified, and

will be allowed two attempts per day.

v. An archery qualification is valid for three years (archers are responsible for

updating archery qualifications).

Permits

1. Tribal Member Adult Permit

a. An individual 18 and older and a member of the Pueblo of Laguna qualifies for a Tribal

Member Adult Permit.

b. Naturalized Members are eligible for all Tribal Member hunts.

2. Tribal Member Elder Permit

a. Tribal Member elders (65 years or older) can apply for all Tribal Member hunts.

b. All fees for Tribal Member elders are waived.

c. There will be three additional permits added for Laguna elders in the Draw. The species

include pronghorn, elk, turkey, cougar, and bear.

3. Tribal Member Disabled Permit

a. Disabled Tribal Members can apply for any Tribal Member hunts.

b. A hunter’s disability status must be verified by having a completed POL Hunter Disability

Verification Form (HDVF) on file in the NRP Office at the time an application is

submitted.

The HDVF must be signed by a doctor, nurse, or other legal medical

professional.

ii. Forms are valid for five (5) years, or less, if indicated by medical professional.

iii. The HDVF can be mailed or emailed upon request.

c. Disabled Tribal Members that apply for a mule deer hunt will be placed in the Draw.

d. All disabled hunters may apply for special accommodations that allow them to hunt.

e. All fees are waived for disabled Tribal Members.

Tribal Member Youth

a. A Hunter Education (HE) card must be submitted with a hunting application.

b. All Tribal Member youth fees are waived.

c. Non-Tribal Member youth of a Tribal Member Parents will pay a reduced fee. (See

Section 3, Permits subsection, 7. Non-Tribal Members with the following Tribal Member

relationship).

d. Youth that apply for an archery hunt must pass an archery qualification test.

e. Hunter Education Certification website:

https://www.wildlife.state.nm.us/education/hunter-education/

Tribal Member Veteran Permit

a. All hunting fees are waived for Tribal Member veterans.

b. Proof of service in the armed forces must accompany an application for fees to be

waived. Acceptable forms of proof include: Veteran cards and/or honorable discharge

papers (DD-214).

Non-Tribal Member POL Employee Permit

a. During the Over-the-Counter sales period, Non-Tribal Member POL employees pay the

application fee and 10% of the Non-Tribal Member permit fee. (Non-Tribal Member

employees are ineligible for discounts during the Draw).

b. Non-Tribal Member POL employees can apply for Non-Tribal Member hunts.

c. Non-Tribal Member employees must provide proof of employment (POL identification

card).

Non-Tribal Members with the following Tribal Member relationship:

a. Non-Tribal Members are ineligible to apply for mule deer, pronghorn, turkey, and bear

hunts. If you qualify under this section, you will receive a discount on permits and are

eligible to apply for tribal and non-tribal hunts. The permit fee is three times the Tribal

Member fee (example: $10 bull elk x 3 = $30).

Non-Tribal Member parents of a Tribal Member youth must submit youth’s

Tribal enrollment number.

ii.

Non-Tribal Member youth with Tribal Member parents must submit parent’s

Tribal enrollment number.

iii.

Non-Tribal Member spouse of a Tribal Member must submit spouse’s Tribal

enrollment number and a valid marriage certificate.

Special Permits

a. Special permits (elk only) may be issued at the discretion of the NRP (examples: cultural

hunts, depredation hunts, and donation hunts).

b. Community and POL organizations, schools, etc. can request donation hunts. The

request must be submitted to the NRP.

9. Small Game Permits

a. Small game permits are available Over-the-Counter, year-round (Bell Rock Unit 6 is

closed for hunting).

b. A $5.00 application fee must be submitted with an application (member elders, youth,

veterans are free).

i. Applicants will be notified after the background check is completed.

ii. Small game permits are valid for one year from the date of notification.

c. Small game permits are $5.00 for Tribal Members (member elders, youth, and veterans

are free).

d. Small game permits are $150.00 for non-members.

e. Small game permits are $50.00 for Non-Member POL employees, non-member spouses,

and Non-Member of Member parents.

f. Big game hunting rules apply to small game hunting, unless specified.

g. POL units are closed to small game hunting during big game hunts (big game hunting

dates and units are located on the back of the small game permit).

h. Hunting with a small game permit during a big game hunt will result in the forfeiture of

permit for one year from the date of the violation.

i. Small game species include: rabbit, badger, coyote, quail, muskrat, bobcat, dove, duck,

raccoon, squirrel, skunk, pigeon, feral dog, prairie dog, porcupine, feral hog, beaver, and

fox.

j. Tribal Members do not need a permit to hunt rabbits.

10. Trapping Permits

a. All trappers must apply for a trapping permit.

b. Only Tribal Members are eligible for trapping permits.

c. Trapping permits are $5.00 (Tribal Member elders are free).

d. Trapping species include: badger, coyote, muskrat, bobcat, raccoon, squirrel, feral dog,

prairie dog, fox, rabbit, skunk, rat, porcupine, feral hog, and beaver.

e. All traps must have the trapper’s name, mail address, and contact number.

f. Trappers must follow the current POL Trapping Regulations.

g. The NRP may issue a special trapping permit for nuisance animals.

h. All trapping fees support the TIPP’s fund.

i. Trappers are required to submit a harvest report for their previous permit year.

11. Special Reserved Permits

i. The permits are reserved for specific activities such as exchange hunts with

other tribes.

12. Off Reservation Cultural Permits

i. Tribal Members participating in off reservation cultural hunts.

ii. Permits for these hunts are assigned at the discretion of the Governor (or the

NRP).

iii. Special rules and regulations apply to these permits.

iv. Violations of the host Tribe’s regulations will result in the loss of future Off

Reservation Cultural hunt opportunities indefinitely.

v. Applicants must adhere to the “Permit Eligibility” requirements stated in

Section 3 of the Hunting Proclamation.

13. Tribal Member Cultural Permits

i. Requests for a cultural permit must be submitted by the first Friday in August.

ii. Requests must come from a Village Mayordomo.

iii. Animals that can be harvested include, elk, bear, and pronghorn.

iv. A bag limit and hunting unit will be specified and will be reviewed by the NRP

as the requests are received.

Rules and Regulations Defining Legal Big Game Animals for Harvest

1. One animal may be harvested on a single permit. Animals must meet the following

requirements:

a. Mule deer bucks must have an established fork on both sides of the head (2X2) for Any

Legal Weapon hunts.

b. Bull elk must have antlers (i.e., 1x0 or 1x1 are both acceptable).

c. Cow elk with calves CANNOT be harvested.

d. Pronghorn bucks must have horns longer than their ears to be harvested. Female

pronghorn with fawns cannot be harvested.

e. Barbary sheep (aoudad) or tahr of either sex can be harvested.

f. Only adult cougars can be harvested (no kittens with spots or females with kittens).

g. Only adult bears can be harvested (no cubs or females with cubs).

2. Other non-game species may be harvested under a special permit. Contact the NRP for details.

Prohibited Actions

All violations of this Proclamation, or of applicable Pueblo Laws, will be enforced by Pueblo of Laguna

Law Enforcement Officers and the Natural Resources Program. Violators will lose hunting privileges for

five (5) years and result in civil and/or criminal penalties. The POL Wildlife Conservation Code is located

on the NRP website. Offenses and penalties are listed in this document.

1. Harvesting or attempting to harvest wildlife without a valid permit (poaching).

2. Harvesting or attempting to harvest wildlife under a permit issued to another person, unless

authorized.

3. Harvesting or attempting to harvest wildlife not specifically indicated on your hunting permit.

4. Shooting from, along, near (40 ft. minimum), or across a graded or paved road (except where

accommodation is granted to a disabled hunter).

5. Possessing a rifle in any motor vehicle with live ammunition in the chamber or possessing an

unauthorized firearm in the field during an archery hunt.

6. Abandoning or wasting any edible portion of a big game animal. Donations are encouraged.

7. Using decoys to hunt big game.

8. Hunting big game while in possession of, or under the influence of alcohol or other illegal drugs.

9. Any act of vandalism.

10. Driving off maintained or established roads in motor vehicles, including ATVs, is strictly

prohibited, unless a disabled hunter or to retrieve legally taken game.

11. Camping in any restricted areas (indicated on unit maps) or within ¼ mile of a wildlife/livestock

water structure.

12. Use of hunting dogs to hunt any big game, unless otherwise specified in the Proclamation, or on

your permit.

13. Harvesting or attempting to harvest any wildlife from a motor vehicle or aircraft (unless an

accommodation is granted to a disabled hunter).

14. Hunting or attempting to hunt any wildlife with the aid of any artificial light (spotlighting).

15. Littering on Pueblo of Laguna lands.

16. Use of drone or aircraft during a hunt is prohibited.

17. Hunting, shooting, or harassing any animal from an aircraft or drone or flying an aircraft or

drone in any manner which causes any non-domesticated animal to move from its place of rest

or change its direction of travel.

18. Using a weapon that is not indicated on an issued hunting permit.

Manner and Method of Lawful Harvest of Big Game

1. Hunting hours: One-half hour before sunrise to one-half hour after sunset.

2. Permitted hunter is only allowed to hunt with the weapon that is specified on their permit.

3. It is required that all firearm hunters wear 300 square inches of blaze orange. Generally, a vest

and hat will meet this requirement.

4. Legal weapons include:

a. Firearms which allow emission of a full report from the barrel with nothing to silence or

muffle the sound.

b. Shotguns (10 gauge and smaller) with no more than a three-shell capacity. Shotgun

plugs are required on guns with shell capacity greater than three.

c. Muzzleloaders: firing a projectile of .45 caliber or larger.

d. Any compound, recurve, or long bow (except crossbows) with a draw weight of 40

pounds or greater. Arrow points with sharpened broad heads or replaceable blades

larger than 7/8 inches in diameter, non-explosive and non-poisonous.

Ammunition

1. Rim fire and centerfire cartridges firing a soft nose bullet, hollow point bullet, or a solid

projectile.

2. .22 caliber is allowed for small game hunting.

3. .243 is the smallest caliber permitted for a big game hunt.

4. The range for a sidearm is a .22 Mag to a 357 Mag.

Use of Dogs in a Hunt

1. Dogs can only be used for the tracking of cougar and bear. The NRP must be notified prior to the

use of dogs for any cougar or bear hunts.

2. Proof of dog vaccinations must be submitted to the NRP prior to entering Pueblo lands.

3. Dogs must have a collar and tag that includes the owner’s name and contact information.

Mandatory Big Game Harvest Reporting

1. Big game harvest reports must be submitted within 30 days after the hunt, even if hunter did

not participate (refer to Appendix C).

2. Failure to report after a big game hunt will result in the loss of all big game hunting privileges for

three years. A hunter must pay a fine of $50.00 to waive the late harvest report penalty. A late

harvest report fee will be applied for each harvest report that is late.

a. Late harvest report fees must be submitted before an application is accepted.

b. Late harvest report fees are accepted year-round, unless a deadline is specified.

3. A hunter must file a harvest report for every purchased permit.

4. Incomplete harvest reports will not be accepted.

5. Harvest reports can be submitted by: mailing the completed report, or by e-mailing info.nr@polnsn.gov.

Small Game and Trapping Harvest Reporting

1. Harvest reports must be submitted within 30 days after the permit’s expiration date, even if the

permit holder did not participate.

2. Failure to report will result in the loss of small game/trapping privileges for three years. A hunter

must pay a fine of $50.00 to waive the late harvest report penalty and submit a harvest report.

a. Late harvest report fees must be submitted before an application is accepted.

b. Late harvest report fees are accepted year-round.

3. The report should include a list of all species harvested and number of hours spent hunting in

the previous year.

Transportation, Possession, Evidence of Sex and Species Requirements

1. A valid big game permit is required to transport and possess any big game animals or parts.

Only permitted hunters, the NRP, or Public Safety Department staff may transport wildlife from

the place where it was harvested to a residence or place of storage.

2. Any wildlife in possession must include natural evidence of sex and species. Proof of sex and

species shall be as follows:

a. Big game ungulates (hoofed animals) and mammals: male (head), female (head)

b. Turkey (attached beard) for spring harvest.

Tagging

1. All harvested big game must be tagged immediately.

2. The issued tag must be attached to either the antler/horns of males or on the leg of any female.

a. For bear and cougar, the carcass tag may be wrapped around a hind leg above the foot

if skinned.

3. The month, day, and year of the harvest must be notched by the permitted hunter.

4. The tag must remain with the skull of the harvested animal at all times. This includes in the field,

camp, in/on any vehicle, at a residence, or at a place of storage. Tags may be removed after the

animal has been processed.

Wildlife Donation

1. Individuals receiving donated animals or animal parts should maintain documentation

identifying where the animal was harvested.

2. We encourage the donation of unwanted or unused animal parts for cultural purposes.

Notification of Wounded Animal Leaving Reservation

1. Pueblo of Laguna Open Space Officers must be contacted if a wounded animal leaves the Pueblo

boundary. The appropriate jurisdiction will be notified and the hunter will pay for all retrieval

fees.

Hunting Unit Closures during Big Game Hunts

1. The NRP reserves the right to restrict activity within a unit during any hunt, to protect the safety

and well-being of the public.

2. Hunting units with active big game hunts will be closed to firewood hauling and small game

hunting.

3. Livestock management activities may occur during big game hunts.

Guiding or Outfitting

1. Guided and/or outfitted hunts are NOT permitted on the Pueblo of Laguna without specific

written permission from the NRP (Resolution No. 46-90). Civil penalties will be imposed for

illegal guiding and outfitting.

i. Guides/outfitters must be enrolled as POL Tribal Members.

ii. Guides/outfitters must have a current New Mexico State certification.

iii. Guides/outfitters must have commercial liability protection insurance in the amount of

$1,000,000 or greater.

2. If offered guide or outfitting services, contact the Laguna Police Department at (505) 552-6666.

Hunter’s Code of Ethics

•

I will obey all rules and regulations for firearms and hunter safety.

I will conduct myself in an ethical, respectful manner and insist that other hunters do the same.

If I witness any illegal hunting activities, I will contact Pueblo of Laguna Law Enforcement at

(505) 552-6666.

I will be respectful and courteous to other hunters and non-hunters.

I will hunt under the rules of fair chase and will not take advantage of any game animals.

•

I will respect my quarry before and after the hunt.

I will make every effort to locate any animal wounded by myself or another hunter. If I draw

blood and cannot locate the animal, my hunt is done.

I will make full use of any game animal I harvest to prevent waste.

I will always leave my hunting area cleaner than when I arrived.

SECTION 4: SPECIFIC RULES AND REGULATIONS FOR TRIBAL MEMBERS

Restrictions for Tribal Hunts

1. A Tribal Member may have up to two Non-Tribal Member hunter’s assistants and must comply

with the “Non-Tribal Member Hunter Assistant (HA) Requirements” in Section 5 of the Hunting

Proclamation. Additional Non-Tribal Member hunter’s assistants must obtain an access permit

from the POL Secretary’s Office (505-552-6654).

2. Tribal Members are responsible for the actions of Non-Tribal Members accompanying them and

will be held accountable for their actions. This will include the loss of hunting privileges.

3. POL permits are only valid in the hunting unit that is indicated on the permit. Hunting outside of

the permitted unit will result in a forfeiture of the hunt and/or penalties and fines associated

with this action.

SECTION 5: SPECIFIC RULES AND REGULATIONS FOR NON-TRIBAL MEMBERS

Non-Tribal Member Hunter Rules and Regulations

1. Non-Tribal Member hunters will be issued a placard that must be displayed on the vehicle

dashboard while traveling on POL lands.

2. State of New Mexico Hunting Licenses are NOT valid on POL lands. POL big game permits are not

valid on federal or state lands.

3. Big game hunting permits and hunter’s assistant forms function as POL access permits. Hunt in

permitted units only. The permit authorizes hunters to camp in designated areas for the

duration of their hunt/scout period. Signed permits must be in possession at all times.

4. Scouting is permitted ten days prior to the permit’s indicated starting date. If there is a hunt in

progress, scouting is not permitted.

5. Trespassing will result in fines, loss of hunting privileges, and forfeiture of all paid fees.

6. The POL reserves the right to collect tissue, teeth, and other biological samples from harvested

game animals, as necessary, for scientific and wildlife management purposes.

7. The use of game cameras is prohibited.

Cultural Elk Hunts – (Other Tribes)

1. Other tribes wishing to hunt on POL lands must submit a written request to the POL Governor’s

Office. Requests must be received by the first Friday of August.

2. The request must include: Proof of tribal affiliation and a general description of cultural

purpose.

3. Species that can be requested from other tribes include elk and cougar.

Non-Tribal Member Hunter Assistant (HA) Requirements

1. Two HAs are permitted to accompany a hunter in the field or in camp. Additional HAs must

obtain an access permit from the POL Secretary’s Office.

2. The HA cannot guide a hunter without written approval from the NRP.

3. The HA may not carry a hunting weapon, of any kind, during the hunt or when scouting. If the

HA is in possession of a firearm, the permitted hunter will forfeit their permit and face civil

penalties.

4. The HA may assist with tracking, retrieving, field dressing, and transporting legally taken big

game from the field to a campsite.

5. The permitted hunter is responsible for completing, signing, and submitting all HA forms to the

NRP. Only approved HAs will be allowed to accompany the permitted hunter.

6. Any hunter accompanied by an unapproved HA will have their hunting privileges revoked and

will be charged with trespass.

7. HAs are allowed to carry knives, a taser, and deterrent spray for personal protection.

Camping Requirements for Non-Tribal Members

1. All campsites must be in designated areas only. Maps of roads and designated camping areas

will be provided. A representative from the NRP may be available, upon request, to escort the

Non-Tribal Member hunter to the campsite.

2. Campsites are available on a first come, first serve basis.

3. Camping is allowed for up to five (5) days prior to the starting hunt date. Camps must be

vacated within one (1) day after the ending hunt date. Requests for extension must be

submitted, in writing, to the NRP fourteen (14) days prior to the hunt start date. All requests will

be considered on a case-by-case basis.

4. Camps must be kept clean. Littering is prohibited. Any litter left at a campsite will result in the

loss of hunting privileges for a minimum of one (1) year.

5. Firewood gathering is restricted to dead and downed wood. Transporting wood outside of the

unit is prohibited.

6. Camping is not allowed on POL land for hunts occurring on state, federal or private land.

APPENDIX A: GLOSSARY

Access Permit authorizes temporary access on Pueblo of Laguna land.

Any Legal Weapon is a device or instrument that is used to cause death from the manner that it is used

or intended to be used. Any Legal Weapon includes: rifle, shotgun, and pistol. The weapon

cannot exceed a rifle.

Application fee is the non-refundable, $10.00 fee for applying for a Pueblo of Laguna big game hunt.

Big Game are mule deer, elk, pronghorn, turkey, bear, cougar, tahr, and barbary sheep.

Cultural Hunts are hunts that are offered by the Natural Resources Program to POL Programs, POL

entities, schools, and village officials.

Disabled is a person with a physical impairment that is unable to hunt in a regular fashion. They must

present certification from a medical doctor verifying the extent of their disability.

Draw is a process where applicants are randomly selected to participate in Pueblo of Laguna big game

hunts.

Elderly are people 65 years of age and older.

Feral Animals are animals that were once domesticated, or are descendant of domesticated animals,

and are now free roaming and living in a wild, natural, or untamed state.

Firearm is any pistol, revolver, rifle, shotgun, or any other device which expels a projectile by an

explosive force and is capable of being used as a weapon.

Guiding means to lead, direct, show, or point out wildlife, or hunting areas to any person for

compensation.

Harvest Report is a form that hunters submit within 30 days from the last day of their big game hunt. It

provides the number of hours hunted and if the hunter was successful.

Hunter’s Assistant (HA) is an individual that aids a permitted hunter in carrying and field dressing

harvested game for the duration of a hunt.

Hunter’s Assistant Agreement Form is a document that permits an individual to assist a hunter. A

hunter may have two (2) assistants.

Hunter Education is a required instruction and proficiency course that all youth hunters (under 18 years

old) must successfully complete in order to legally hunt on the Pueblo.

Hunting Hours are the permitted hours when wildlife may be lawfully taken. One-half hour before

sunrise to one-half hour after sunset.

Hunting Unit (HU) is a designated area for big game hunting.

Invasive Species are plants or animals that are non-native to the Pueblo and have a tendency to spread

and cause damage to the environment, human economy, and human health.

Late Harvest Report occurs when a hunter fails to submit a Harvest Report 30 days after their hunt.

Naturalized Member is an individual who is enrolled as a Naturalized Member of the Pueblo of Laguna.

Non-Game Animals are animals that are not listed on the Hunting Proclamation or the small game

permit, because they are on adjacent lands and/or in small populations. Both of these conditions would

not support hunting. Non-Game animals include but are not limited to porcupines, turtles, flying

squirrels, javelina (peccary), big horn sheep, ibex, oryx, voles, mice, bats or wolves.

Non-Tribal Employee refers to an individual(s) employed by the Pueblo of Laguna that are not Laguna

members.

Non-Tribal Member is any person who is not enrolled as a regular member of the Pueblo of Laguna.

NR Program refers to the Pueblo of Laguna Natural Resources Program.

Open Space Officer is an officer of the Public Safety Department with a duty to enforce the law within

the exterior boundaries of the Pueblo of Laguna.

Outfitting means to provide equipment and/or supplies intended for temporary use by hunters to take

big game in exchange for compensation.

Over-the-Counter Permits are permits available after the Draw.

Permit Fee is the cost of the hunting permit.

Poaching is the illegal killing of any animal without a Permit.

Pueblo means the Pueblo of Laguna Government.

Scouting is the process of seeking animals to hunt prior to a permitted big game hunt.

Sidearm is a firearm (such as a revolver or pistol) designed to be held and fired with one hand.

Small Game are animals that can be harvested with a small game permit. Species that are included:

Rabbit, Badger, Coyote, Quail, Muskrat, Bobcat, Dove, Duck, Raccoon, Squirrel, Pigeon, Feral Dog,

Beaver and Fox (Red or Grey).

Tag is an identification label, issued by the NR Program, for attachment to any harvested wildlife as

evidence of legal take and possession.

Take is the shooting and killing of an animal.

Trapping Permit taking or attempting to take any wildlife by means of any trap, snare, deadfall, or other

device commonly used to capture wildlife, whether or not such acts result in the taking of wildlife.

Trespass is to access an area without written permission.

Tribal Enrollment Number is the number assigned to an enrolled Pueblo of Laguna member.

Tribal Member is an individual who is officially recognized and enrolled as a member of the Pueblo of

Laguna.

Turn-In Poachers (TIPP’s) is a program that supplements anti-poaching efforts.

Wildlife Donation refers to the act of giving harvested wildlife or portions thereof to another person or

group.

Youth are persons under 18 years of age.

APPENDIX B: HOW TO COMPLETE A BIG GAME APPLICATION

Complete the entire ”Applicant

Information” section. If information

is unavailable, write ”N/A”.

Complete this Hunt

Code Section when

applying for the Draw.

Enter unit number.

Enter four letter

hunt code here.

Complete this Hunt Code Section when

applying for an Over-the-Counter permit

(after the Draw date).

APPENDIX C: HOW TO COMPLETE A HARVEST REPORT

Big Game Permit Frontside

Cut along the dashed

line, then send lower

portion to the ENRD

by email or mail.

Notch the month, day,

and year of harvest

along the margin.

Complete backside

portion of the harvest

report with required

information.

Big Game Permit Backside

APPENDIX D: OVERVIEW MAP OF HUNTING AREAS

APPENDIX E: HUNT CODES, HUNT INFORMATION, AND DATES

Mule Deer Hunts (Tribal Member)

Hunt Code

Hunt Type

Units Available

Permits Available

Hunt Dates

Bag Limit

Permit Cost

PAMD-

Archery Mule Deer

2, 3, 4, 5, 7, 8*, 10, 12*

2/unit

Nov. 20 - Nov. 29, 2026

Buck Only

$20

PRMD-

Any Legal Weapon Mule Deer

2, 3, 4, 5, 7, 8*, 10, 12*

1/unit

Dec. 10-14, 2026

Buck Only

$20

Hunt Code

Hunt Type

Units Available

Permits Available

Hunt Dates

Bag Limit

Permit Cost

PAP1-

Archery Pronghorn

4, 5, 7, 10, 11

3/unit

Aug. 6-15, 2026

Buck Only

$20

PRP1-

Any Legal Weapon Pronghorn

4, 5, 7, 10, 11

3/unit

Aug. 27-Aug. 31, 2026

Buck Only

$20

Hunt Code

Hunt Type

Units Available

Permits Available

Hunt Dates

Bag Limit

Permit Cost

PATS-

Archery Turkey

2, 3, 8*, 12*

3/unit

Mar. 25-Apr. 3, 2027

Either Sex

$20

PSTS-

Any Legal Weapon Turkey

2, 3, 8*, 12*

3/unit

Apr. 8-12, 2027

1 Bearded Turkey

$20

Hunt Code

Hunt Type

Units Available

Permits Available

Hunt Dates

Bag Limit

Permit Cost

SHBR-

Any Legal Weapon Bear

2, 3, 8*, 12*

3/unit

Aug. 27-Aug. 31, 2026

Either Sex

$20

Pronghorn Hunts (Tribal Member)

Turkey Hunts (Tribal Member)

Bear Hunts (Tribal Member)

Elk Hunts (Tribal Member)

Hunt Code

Hunt Type

Unit Available

Permits Available

Hunt Dates

Bag Limit

Permit Cost

PAE1-

Archery Elk

Sept. 25-Oct. 4, 2026

Either Sex

$10

PAE1-

Archery Elk

Sept. 25-Oct. 4, 2026

Either Sex

$10

PAE1-

Archery Elk

Sept. 25-Oct. 4, 2026

Either Sex

$10

PAE1-

Archery Elk

Sept. 25-Oct. 4, 2026

Either Sex

$10

PAE1-

Archery Elk

Sept. 25-Oct. 4, 2026

Either Sex

$10

PAE1-

Archery Elk

Sept. 25-Oct. 4, 2026

Either Sex

$10

PAE1-

Archery Elk

Sept. 25-Oct. 4, 2026

Either Sex

$10

PAE1-

Archery Elk

12*

Sept. 25-Oct. 4, 2026

Either Sex

$10

PME1-

Muzzle Loader Elk

Oct. 9-13, 2026

Bull Only

$10

PME1-

Muzzle Loader Elk

Oct. 9-13, 2026

Bull Only

$10

Oct. 9-13, 2026

Bull Only

$10

Oct. 9-13, 2026

Bull Only

$10

PME1PME1-

Muzzle Loader Elk

PME1-

Muzzle Loader Elk

Oct. 9-13, 2026

Bull Only

$10

PME1-

Muzzle Loader Elk

Oct. 9-13, 2026

Bull Only

$10

Bull Only

$10

PME1-

Muzzle Loader Elk

12*

Oct. 9-13, 2026

PRE1-

Any Legal Weapon Elk

Oct. 23-27, 2026

Bull Only

$10

Oct. 23-27, 2026

Bull Only

$10

Bull Only

$10

Bull Only

$10

PRE1-

Any Legal Weapon Elk

PRE1-

Any Legal Weapon Elk

Oct. 23-27, 2026

PRE1-

Any Legal Weapon Elk

Oct. 23-27, 2026

PRE1-

Any Legal Weapon Elk

PRE1-

Any Legal Weapon Elk

Oct. 23-27, 2026

Bull Only

$10

Oct. 23-27, 2026

Bull Only

$10

PRE1-

Any Legal Weapon Elk

Oct. 23-27, 2026

Bull Only

$10

PRE1-

Any Legal Weapon Elk

12*

Oct. 23-27, 2026

Bull Only

$10

Tahr Hunts (Tribal Member)

Hunt Code

Hunt Type

Units Available

Permits Available

Hunt Dates

Bag Limit

Permit Cost

PRT1-

Any Legal Weapon Tahr

2 & 8* (combined)

Jan. 7-16, 2027

Either Sex

$20

Hunt Code

Hunt Type

Units Available

Permits Available

Hunt Dates

Bag Limit

Permit Cost

PRBS-

Any Legal Weapon Barbary Sheep

1, 6, 7

2/Unit

Jan. 28-Feb. 6, 2027

Either Sex

$20

Permits Available

Hunt Dates

Bag Limit

Permit Cost

Aug. 29, 2026- Feb.26,

2027

Either Sex

$20

Barbary Sheep Hunts (Tribal Member)

Cougar Hunts (Tribal Member)

Hunt Code

Hunt Type

SPHC-01

Any Legal Weapon Cougar

Units Available

All

Non-Tribal Hunts

Hunt Code

Hunt

Available Units

# Permits

Hunt Dates

Bag Limit

Cost

NAE1-

Archery Elk

4, 5, 7, 10

6/Unit

Sept. 10-19, 2026

Either Sex

$800

NRCE-

Any Legal Weapon Cow Elk

4, 5, 7, 10

4/Unit

Nov. 5-9, 2026

Cow Only

$400

NRGC-

Any Legal Weapon Group Cow Elk

4, 5, 7, 10

Up to 5/Group

Nov. 18-22, 2026

Cow Only

$2,000

NRT1-

Any Legal Weapon Tahr

2 & 8* (combined)

Jan. 28-Feb. 6, 2027

Either Sex

$800

NRT2-

Any Legal Weapon Tahr

2 & 8* (combined)

Feb. 18-Feb. 27, 2027

Either Sex

$800

NRB1-

Any Legal Weapon Barbary Sheep

1, 6, 7

3/Unit

Mar. 11-20, 2027

Either Sex

$600

NRB2-

Any Legal Weapon Barbary Sheep

1, 6, 7

3/Unit

Apr. 1-10, 2027

Either Sex

$600

Aug. 29, 2026-Feb. 26,

2027

Either Sex

$50

SNPC-01

Any Legal Weapon Cougar

All

Unit Numbers and Names

1 - Sanchez/Majors (Bar PL)

7 - Sedillo

2 - Seco

8 - Mount Taylor Game Ranch*

3 - Encinal/Paguate

9 - Montaño

4 - Jackward

10 - Turquoise Springs

5 - Harrington (Diamond L)

11 - Dough Mountain

6 - Bell Rock

12 - Silver Dollar Ranch*

Green heading = hunts available to Tribal Members

Gray heading = hunts available to Non-Tribal Members

* Requires combination to enter hunting unit. Hunter must call NRP prior to hunt for combination.

APPENDIX F: PUEBLO OF LAGUNA BIG GAME APPLICATION

This is a copy of a public record, reproduced as it was published. It is not legal advice, and it may not be the version a court would rely on. Check the official source before you cite it.