Pork is one of the more common staple meats around the world. Pigs are easy to raise and provide a lot of meat for consumption. As a side effect of this, feral hogs (domesticated hogs that escaped) have become a problem in some areas. Hog and boar hunting has historically been a widely popular sport because pigs are everywhere, and pork is delicious.
Some areas allow increased feral hog hunting to curtail exploding populations of invasive, aggressive, and destructive hogs. As more people enter the woods, here are some hog hunting tips to know before venturing out to grab a pile of bacon the hard way.
Hog Hunting Tips
Identifying Hog Activity
Activity Signs. First and foremost, identifying the signs of hog activity in an area is a good start. Like all swine, hogs will root around with their snouts and upturn soil, searching for food. These rooted areas are a good indication of hog activity. So too are mudholes. Areas near creeks and ponds that are muddy and look unnatural are likely places where hogs went to wallow. Pigs don’t sweat, so to cool down, the rest and roll around in muddy water.
Tracks. Hog tracks are another good sign that they’ve been around. Hog tracks resemble deer tracks but are wider and rounder. It can take time to learn to identify and follow, but tracking is a useful skill.
Hunting Strategy
Luring. Once hogs are found to be in the area, luring them out is advised. They can be very aggressive, and it’s better to bring them out than try and go after them. There’s a reason people used to hunt in groups with packs of dogs. Calls of predators or squealing piglets can do the job quite well, as they appeal to the hog’s aggression and sow’s strong maternal instincts, respectively.
Night Hunting. It might be worth considering hunting at night. Many hog groups are active nocturnally, especially during the summer months. Check local regulations for any restrictions on night hunting. Most states that permit wild hog hunting allow it year-round.
Licensing. Since each state determines its hunting regulations, check those regulations before hunting. Some states require licenses, so obtain that license before heading out. In the United States, Texas, Florida, and Louisiana have rampant feral hog populations and lax hunting regulations to curtail their destructive antics. Some counties pay bounties for dead hogs.
Getting into hog hunting might seem daunting, but it’s an engaging hunting experience not quite like any other. A few hog hunting tips will undoubtedly make for a good start, at least.
Gum Log Plantation
Want an excellent hog hunting experience? Gum Log Plantation offers day and night hog hunting. Not only will we go over all hog hunting tips before heading out, but our guides are experienced hog hunters. Go with the experts. We cater to individuals and groups – call us today at 229-318-9015.
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