About Wild Hogs:
 Wild
Hog Hunting was considered a favorite among the nobles in Europe
for centuries and still is today. The wild boar was introduced
to the US in 1893 from supply boats. A mature wild hog is about
3 feet high and from 4-6 feet long weighing from 160 to 450
pounds. The wild hog will avoid human contact, but when
cornered or defending its young, it can be very dangerous and
ferocious. Wild hogs come in many colors and have a long shaggy
type coat. The upper and lower tusks curl out and up along the
sides of the mouth and can be from 3 to 6 inches long.
Exceptionally long tusks can be up to 9 inches long. Wild
hog/boar eat a variety of foods including roots, nuts, grasses,
fruit, berries, and occasionally will eat small animals and
birds’ eggs.
Some game preserves boast true Russian Boar
hunting, but most wild hogs are a mix of domestic and European
hogs. On many private hunting lands and farm properties, the
wild hog has become a problem, because of crop and habitat
destruction. Other hunting lodges have special areas designated
for the wild hogs. The wild hog is a good swimmer and enjoys a
good muddy hog wallow just like a regular pig. Swampy areas are
great habitat for wild hogs.
Types of Wild Hog Hunting:
Wild Hog Hunting Tips:
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Plan Ahead – Consider the weather, type
of hog hunting you will be doing, what type of weapon you
want to use. Many states allow hog hunting year round. If
you are hunting during the hot months of the year, you may
need to consider using unscented bug spray to keep the “red
bugs”, aka “chiggers” from hunting you!
Lanocaine or Solarcaine in your hunting kit, and watch out
for poison oak and poison ivy.
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As for weapon, we’ve seen everything
from a big knife to a big gun. Whatever your choice, be
prepared for action! The wild hog has a thick protection
surrounding the kill area, and you'll need a gun or weapon
powerful enough to penetrate the thick shoulder blade and
gristle. Consult with your pro hog hunting guide about
the best type of weapon and caliber to use during your hunt.
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Scout – It is a good idea to scout your
hunting area during the off season. Familiarize yourself
with the game trails.
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Think Safety – The farm yard pig is a
far cry from a true wild boar! Many of these wild hogs are
descended from true Wild Russian Boar and can be very
dangerous, especially if there are young hogs around. The
tusks are very sharp and the hogs are capable of vicious
attacks! They have been known to rip the belly of a horse
wide open with their sharp tusks. When hunting wild boar,
make sure you have the ability to defend yourself
instantly. Also, plan to take a buddy on your hog hunting
trip. Avoid hunting alone.
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If you are using a baited hunting
technique, make sure the location has been tended regularly
and has daily action.
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Wild Hogs have a powerful sense of
smell. Hide human odors just like you would if you were
bowhunting.
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Wild Hogs also have good ears. Be very
quiet while still hunting.
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If hunting with a professional hunting
guide, always ask for hunting references, a hunting supply
checklist, including necessary license requirements.
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If you are hunting purely for meat,
don’t go for the big boar! The smaller hogs are much
tastier than the big hogs. A large male boar has a very
gamey taste.
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