Texas is considered to be one of the top US states for hog hunting, as the local population estimates up to 1.5 million hogs. They like to say the state is losing the war on feral hogs and hence encourage the hunters to go for them year-round. However, there are not many opportunities to do so on public territory. Around 97% of Texas is privately owned. Anyways, there is a decent choice of reasonably priced guided hog hunts. One of the options is Ox Hunting Ranch offering some of the best hog hunting packages in the state. Other good options are Callahagn Ranch, Langley Ranch, and Dos Plumas Hunting Ranch.
Besides, the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department offers a public hunting program, which includes opportunities to hunt deer, antelope, feral hogs, turkey, alligators, and other game in the wildlife management areas and state parks.
Anyone, who wants to hunt in Texas, should know local laws and regulations, and purchase a valid hunting license. No bag limits or seasons on hunting wild pig are enforced in Texas, but a few things still have to be considered. First of all, it is illegal to hunt a hog without a license. Hog can be found in more arid or semi-arid parts of the state—the South Texas brush country, the Trans-Pecos' desert grasslands, and the Edwards Plateau's oak-juniper woodlands.
Since javelinas have poor eyesight and not the best hearing, it can sometimes be found not too far away from humans. Javelina is a nocturnal animal during the hot season, but it is active during the day in winter. The best time for javelina hunting is mid-January through March.
Practical info
When is the best time of year to go hog hunting in Texas?
Hog hunting season in Texas is year-round, but the ideal period is from mid-January until March. This is because javelinas are more receptive in daylight during this time, making them more accessible to hunt. It is necessary to consider local weather conditions in advance, as hog hunting is determined by weather patterns and temperature. The ideal time to hunt wild pig is when the weather is dry, and there is minimal rainfall. Due to the suitable climate in Texas, hog hunting can be carried out at any time of year. Show more
Where are the best places to go hog hunting in Texas?
Hog hunting is well-known in Texas, and nearly 97% of its 268,601 square miles is privately owned. One can apply via the Public Hunting program in Texas to hunt on public property. Ox Hunting Ranch, Langley Ranch, Dos Plumas Hunting Ranch, and Callahagn Ranch are among the top private hunting sites. These ranches provide guided tours, affordable prices, lodging, and equipment rentals for hunting hogs. These ranches are known for large hog populations. Conducting some prior research is highly recommended before embarking on a hog hunting trip. Show more
What types of hunting opportunities are offered by Texas Parks and Wildlife Department?
Texas Parks and Wildlife Department offers hunting opportunities for deer, antelope, turkey, feral hogs, alligators, and other animals in state parks and wildlife management areas. The general public can submit applications online to hunt through various programs that the department offers. To facilitate hunting activities, the 'Outdoor Annual Hunting, Fishing Regulations' app is available. This app offers licence information, hunting and fishing guides, safety guidelines, and state regulations, among other things. The app is frequently updated and free to use. Show more
Are there any specific laws and regulations to follow when hunting wild pig in Texas?
In Texas, there are very few regulations to obey while hunting wild pig. The state obligates hunters to obtain a valid license, and hogs can only be hunted with the owner's permission. There are no limits or hunting seasons for hogs as they can be hunted year-round. Hunters are also authorized to employ lever-action rifles and shotguns. Nevertheless, suppressors are explicitly forbidden for hog hunting in Texas. Show more
When is the best time to go javelina hunting in Texas?
The best time to hunt javelina in Texas is from mid-January through March. Javelinas have limited vision but average hearing, frequently approaching humans. This animal is nocturnal, and so the winter months are the best time to hunt during daylight. Javelinas are commonly found in arid or semi-arid regions, like the Trans-Pecos' desert grasslands, the South Texas brush country and the Edwards Plateau's oak-juniper woodlands. Hunting isn't allowed in national parks. Show more
