Feral Hog Hunting in Texas

Texas has approximately 2 million feral hogs as of 2010.

With about 2 million feral hogs roaming the state, as of 2010, Texas has plenty of opportunities for the hog hunter. Feral hogs can have a negative impact on the environment, wildlife and waterways. Feral hog hunting in Texas is popular because of the vast population around the state, limited regulations and mild year-round weather.

History

Feral hogs are not a native species to Texas. They were introduced to the United States from European settlers when they allowed domestic livestock to roam free. At times, hogs wouldn't be rounded up and would quickly turn feral. Over time, with the abundance of habitat, food and water with a limited number of predators, the feral hog population grew quickly.

Significance

Wildlife biologists consider feral hogs to be an invasive, exotic species. The feral hogs can damage crops, vegetation and habitat that is crucial to other wildlife. Hogs will also carry infectious diseases that can be transferred to humans, pets, wildlife and livestock. Use rubber or latex gloves when handling any part of a feral hog. Hunting feral hogs helps to control the population. Billy Higginsbotham, professor at Texas A&M University, said it is nearly impossible to eradicate hogs from Texas, but hunting will help to keep the population at a reasonable level.

Regulations

The Texas Parks and Wildlife enforces few regulations for feral hog hunting. The agency recognized as of 2010 that hunters need to be encouraged to hunt the feral hogs to control the populations by harvesting as many hogs as possible. Feral hogs have no season, bag limits, minimum size requirements or possession limits. Hunting can take place 24 hours a day by using a hog light.

Hunting Methods

Several hunting methods can be used for feral hogs. Depending on the terrain and amount of brush, hunters may use tree stands, tripod stands or ground blinds. In locations with dense cover, these stands and blinds will be placed along trails, fields or next to feeders. In open terrain, hunters can use spot-and-stalk techniques. When a hog is spotted, the hunter will stalk into position to make a shot.

Seasons

Feral hog hunting is allowed year-round, but certain times of the year can be more productive for a variety of hunting. Texas has a variety of game species that have regulated hunting seasons. If you are interested in pursuing another species, such as white-tailed deer and wild turkey, review the hunting dates and coordinate the feral hog hunt with the specific season.

References

• Hog Hunting Guide: Texas Hog Hunting
• USA Today: USA Experiences Population Boom of Feral Hogs
• Texas Cooperative Extension: Feral Hogs in Texas
• Texas Parks and Wildlife: Feral Hogs