Chad Mendes, the former UFC fighter turned passionate outdoorsman, took on the rugged landscapes of New Mexico in 2023 for an unforgettable elk hunt. Known for his grit and determination in the octagon, Mendes brought the same intensity to the backcountry, facing the challenges of hunting one of North America’s most majestic big-game animals—the Rocky Mountain bull elk.
The Hunt Begins
New Mexico is home to some of the best elk hunting in the country, with vast wilderness, rolling hills, and high-altitude terrain that push hunters to their limits. The state’s draw system ensures a healthy elk population, and during the rut, monster bulls emerge from the deep timber, bugling and battling for dominance.
For Mendes, this was a chance to test his skills in one of the most physically demanding hunts out there. Spot-and-stalk hunting in the New Mexico backcountry means long hikes, steep climbs, and unpredictable weather—all factors that separate the casual hunter from the dedicated outdoorsman.
Calling in a Giant
Elk hunting during the rut is a game of strategy. Bulls are aggressive, responding to bugles and cow calls as they try to establish dominance. Mendes and his team worked tirelessly to locate the right bull, using glassing techniques to spot movement along ridgelines and valley floors.
After days of pursuit, the moment finally came. A massive bull, pushing over 350 inches of antler, responded to the call. As the bull closed in, bugling with raw power, Mendes prepared for the shot of a lifetime.
The Shot and the Success
With his bow drawn and heart pounding, Mendes waited for the perfect angle. At just under 40 yards, the bull stopped, offering a clean broadside shot. The arrow flew true, striking with precision, and after a short but intense tracking session, Mendes and his team stood over an incredible New Mexico bull.
A Hunt to Remember
This 2023 New Mexico elk hunt wasn’t just about the trophy—it was about the experience. The challenge of chasing wild bulls in rugged terrain, the camaraderie of the hunt, and the respect for the animal made it a truly unforgettable adventure.
For Mendes, this hunt showcased the deep connection between hunting and the outdoors—a passion that fuels him just as much as his fighting career once did. Whether in the octagon or the mountains, one thing is certain—Chad Mendes doesn’t back down from a challenge.
