Some other things to consider on your journey into hunting (it's fun) are to take New Mexico's Hunter safety course and get your hunting license. That way you're ready to hunt as opportunities arise and you can begin making connections with other hunbters and, more importantly, their families who are getting them into hunting. Also consider hunting birds, small game and varmints. Most varmints have a year round season (your state may vary) and thus offer more opportunities. If I read the regs correctly, I believe you're past all of the draw application deadlines for 2018 for big game but 2019 is just around the corner. Hopefully this helps some.