Wild hog, although not native to the Americas, were brought here by early European explorers and later introduced to parts of the United States for hunting purposes. Today, due to escapes from privately owned hunting preserves as well as illegal translocation, wild hog have been reported in 45 out of 50 states in the U.S.
Variables to Consider When Hunting Wild Hog
Location: Although wild hog have been reported in 45 states across the country, they are more prominent along the south eastern boarders. Hogs typically like heavy brush and muddy areas, which makes it no surprise that their populations flourish in states like Texas, Florida, and Georgia.
Solunar Calendar: According to a theory laid out by John Alden Knight in 1926, animal movement is affected by the position and fullness of the moon. This theory was said to be used by hunters and fishermen long before Knight’s theory was published and is still widely accepted and adopted today.
Time of Year: While wild hog can be legally hunted 365 days a year, many enthusiasts claim that the best time of year to hunt wild hog is following deer season. December-February makes for prime hog hunting because they are in heavier pursuit of food which increases activity as they search farther and longer for food.
Time of Day: Wild hog tend to be most active in the early morning or late evening. Although, if you are hunting in the winter months, they may be just as active during the middle of the day as they search for food.
Temperature: As mentioned above, the colder weather causes hogs to move farther and longer in search of food. The colder the temperature the more hogs need extra food for energy so freezing temperatures in the early morning or late at night make for prime hog hunting.
Barometric Pressure: Barometric pressure is another important factor to consider when hog hunting because it affects how hogs pick up your scent. Lower pressure will keep your sent low to the ground, while high pressure systems allow your sent to rise. Consider hunting from a stand on lower pressure days.
General Weather Conditions: While hogs can be hunted in most weather conditions, a light rain or cold front is ideal for spotting hogs on the move. However, if the wind is too strong, it can negatively affect your chances of taking one home.
Wind: Wild hog are the bloodhounds of American game. While deer have a particularly good sense of smell, a wild board puts them to shame. Because of their strong sense of smell, wind can make hunting particularly tricky. Make sure that wherever you are hunting is down wind from them.
Want To Find The Best Hunting Times For Wild Hog?
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States Where You Can Hunt Wild Hog
Although the population of wild hogs is rapidly increasing and spreading, 12 states now allow you to hunt this game year round. Those states are as follows: California, Florida, Georgia, Louisiana, Michigan (allowed to hunt during open season for other any other game), New Mexico, North Carolina, Ohio, South Carolina (allowed to hunt during open season for other game on permitted WMA or year round on private property), Texas, Virginia, Wisconsin. However, there are many states that in fact allow you to hunt hog with their own specific guidelines. Click here to read more about your states regulations.
