Hog Hunting Tips For Beginners: Detailed Guide 2023

Are you a beginner hunter ready to take on the challenge of hog hunting? You can succeed in this exciting sport with proper technique and the right equipment. Hog hunting can be an incredibly rewarding experience for any outdoors person, but it does require certain skills and knowledge. In this blog post, we’ll go over essential hog hunting tips for beginners so that you can confidently get out into the field and catch your first wild hog.

Most Common 15 Hog Hunting Tips For Beginners

1. Get to Know the Hog’s Habits- Before you go hog hunting, it’s important to get to know the behavior of your prey. Research what they eat and their favorite places to sleep or hide. Knowing this information can make your hog hunt more successful.

2. Invest in Quality Gear- You don’t need to buy all the latest and greatest gear, but make sure you have good quality items. This includes your rifle, optics, ammunition, and other hog hunting equipment.

3. Scout Your Area- Spend time scouting for signs of hog activity before you start hunting. Look for tracks, rooting marks, droppings, or wallows. This will give you an idea of where the hogs are and what direction they’re moving in.

4. Choose the Right Rifle- Make sure you have a rifle that is the proper size for hunting wild hogs. A .223 or .308 caliber rifle will be more than enough power to take down a hog effectively.

5. Pack the Right Supplies- Make sure you have plenty of food and water and a map of the area. It’s also important to bring appropriate clothing for the climate and terrain.

6. Be Quiet- Hogs have very good hearing, so ensure you are quiet when approaching them. Move slowly and avoid loud noises that could scare them off.

7. Practice Shooting- Before going out on your first hunt, ensure you get plenty of practice shooting your rifle. This will help you become more accurate and confident when taking the shot at a live hog.

8. Use Calling Tactics- Hog calls can draw hogs close enough for a shot. Be sure to research different calls and practice using them before your hunt.

9. Use Decoys- Placing decoys near where you’re hunting can help attract wild hogs and give you more chances for shots.

10. Be Patient- Wild hogs are challenging to find, so it’s important to have patience and keep going even if you don’t see any activity.

11. Don’t Take Unnecessary Risks- Hunting hogs can be dangerous, especially with large boars. Please ensure you use caution when approaching them and never take unnecessary risks.

12. Know the Laws- Different states have different laws regarding hog hunting, so make sure you familiarize yourself with the ones in your area.

13. Practice Safe Hunting- Wear blaze orange and always be aware of your surroundings when hunting. Make sure you have a plan for any potential mishaps or accidents.

14. Hunt When the Hogs Are Most Active- Wild hogs are most active at night, so plan your hunt accordingly. Night hunting will increase your chances of finding hogs in the area.

15. Have Fun- Hog hunting can be an incredibly rewarding experience and a great way to get outdoors. Enjoy the journey and take pride in your accomplishment when you finally track down a hog.

Following these tips and using the proper gear and equipment can ensure a successful hog hunting experience. With patience and practice, you’ll soon be an expert at finding and catching wild hogs.

What is a Hog?

A hog is typically defined as a large, four-legged mammal that belongs to the Suidae family. Commonly referred to as “swine,” hogs are omnivorous creatures that feed on plants and animals.

Hogs, including bacon, ham, and pork chops, are commonly bred for their meat. However, some individuals may keep hogs as pets or animals for show.

Hogs can live in various habitats and climates, though they prefer to live in warmer areas with plenty of vegetation. Hogs also vary in size depending on the breed, ranging from small pot-bellied pigs to large wild boars. In general, hogs are social animals and live in “drift” family groups.

Hogs are highly intelligent creatures, capable of learning basic commands, recognizing their name, and responding to human contact. They can also be trained to perform agricultural tasks such as herding livestock or gathering crops.

Despite this intelligence, hogs can be quite destructive due to the strong rooting instinct that causes them to dig up plants and soil.

Types of Hogs

There are several different varieties of hogs, including wild and domestic breeds. The most common type is the domesticated pig, which is widely kept as livestock on farms around the world. Other types of hogs include:

• Wild Boar – 

This large species of a wild hog can be found in Europe, Asia, and North America. They can weigh up to 330 pounds and measure over 5 feet in length. Wild boars typically have a coarse, bristly coat of hair, long tusks, and a large head with a snout.

• Razorback – 

This feral pig species is native to the southeastern United States and is most commonly found in Arkansas, Oklahoma, and Texas. The razorback has a large shoulder hump and long, curved tusks. It is an important game animal in these areas and can weigh up to 300 pounds.

• Warthog – 

This species of the wild pig is native to Africa and can be found inhabiting grasslands, savannas, and woodlands. Warthogs are known for their distinctive long, curved tusks and thick body. They can weigh up to 400 pounds and measure over 4 feet in length.

• Peccary – 

These wild pigs are found in Central and South America, mainly inhabiting grasslands and woodland areas. Peccaries have a shorter snout than other hogs, with a slimmer build and smaller tusks. They typically weigh up to 75 pounds and measure 2-3 feet in length.

• Eurasian Wild Hog – 

This species of the wild pig is found throughout Europe, Asia, and parts of North Africa. The Eurasian wild hog has a thick coat of black or brown hair and long tusks. They typically weigh up to 250 pounds and measure 3-4 feet in length.

These are just a few examples of the many different kinds of hogs around the world. Regardless of your type, it’s important to remember that all hogs can be dangerous and should always be treated with caution.

Hog maximum Age and Size?

The average lifespan of a hog is 4-5 years, but some have been known to reach 12. As for size, the maximum weight for domestic hogs can range from 300 to 1,000 pounds depending on breed and age.

The average size of an adult hog is between 200 and 500 pounds. Miniature breeds are available and can weigh as little as 30 pounds. Fully matured hogs can measure up to 4-5 feet in height and up to 8 feet in length.

Wild hogs tend to be larger, with boars weighing upwards of 450 pounds and sows topping the scales at nearly 600 pounds.

Hog Care Considerations?

Caring for hogs requires a comfortable living environment, nutritious food, and regular veterinary check-ups. You also need to understand their behavior and be able to handle them properly.

Hogs can be trained to become friendly pets, but they are still wild animals and should be treated with respect. As for housing, hogs need a spacious, secure pen with enough room to move around and root.

They should have access to fresh water and food sources at all times. Hogs are hardy animals that can withstand most weather conditions but may need additional bedding or shelter during winter.

Finally, let your vet know if you plan on keeping hogs, and make sure you understand any local laws or regulations. Caring for hogs can be rewarding, but it requires dedication and commitment.

How to find a Hog in the wild?

Hogs may be challenging to spot in the wild, but they can be found in various habitats, including woodlands, wetland areas, and even some urban parks. Here are a few tips for locating hogs:

1. Look for signs of rooting and wallowing: Hogs love to root around in the dirt with their snouts and wallow in mud or shallow pools of water. Look for areas where the ground is disturbed, and search for tracks in moist soil, which can help you identify whether hogs have been frequenting the area.

2. Listen for their grunts: Hogs are surprisingly vocal creatures who often make loud grunts and squeals when disturbed. Listen for these distinct noises in the early morning and at night, as these are prime times for hog activity.

3. Keep an eye out for their droppings: Hogs’ droppings are large and can be easily spotted on the ground or in water. If you notice a lot of droppings in one area, chances are that there’s a hog nearby.

4. Be aware of your surroundings: Hogs can be aggressive and will charge if they feel threatened, so it is important to remain alert and observe hogs at a safe distance. Suppose you spot one; back away slowly and keep an eye out for other hogs that may be nearby.

Following these steps can increase your chances of finding a hog in the wild.

Best States For Hunting Wild Hogs

Alabama 

With many of its 67 counties offering great opportunities for hog hunting, Alabama is a great spot to hunt wild hogs. The variety of terrain and habitat types makes this state ideal for finding the perfect spot to pursue boar, sows, and hybrids.

The Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources also offers several hunting and fishing licenses, so you’ll be able to hunt wild hogs in no time.

Florida

Known as the “Sunshine State,” Florida is another great place to hunt wild hogs. The state has plenty of public hunting areas, making it easy to find a spot for your next outing.

The nearby Everglades National Park is also a great spot for hog hunting, as plenty of swamps and marshes provide ample opportunity for stalking boar.

Texas

With its endless expanses of rugged terrain, no wonder Texas is known as one of the best states for hog hunting.

The state has some of the best wild hog hunting areas in the country, and its wide range of climates provides plenty of opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts. Texas also has excellent public land hunting options that provide access to hogs year-round.

Georgia

This southern state is often overlooked in hog hunting, but consider Georgia’s great hunting opportunities. The state boasts more than 60,000 acres of public lands and several private ranches that offer excellent hog hunting year-round.

South Carolina 

With its varied terrain and diverse climates, South Carolina is another great choice for hog hunters looking for a challenging hunt. The state has numerous swamps and marshes, as well as many rolling hills and forests that offer plenty of opportunities for boar hunting.

The South Carolina Department of Natural Resources also offers a variety of licenses so you can get started quickly.

No matter which state you choose to hunt wild hogs in, you’ll surely have an exciting and memorable experience.

With their large wild hog population, good hunting terrain, and varied climates, these five states are some of the best in the country for pursuing wild boar.

Best Rifles for Hog Hunting

Remington Model 700 SPS Tactical AAC-SD

This rifle is one of the most popular models for hog hunting due to its accuracy and power. It has a 20″ heavy barrel with tactical stock, making it very easy to maneuver in different terrains.

This rifle also features an adjustable trigger and threaded muzzle for attaching sound suppressors. It is accurate up to 800 meters and uses .223 Remington rounds.

AR-10

The AR-10 is a semi-automatic rifle designed for bigger games like hogs. It features an adjustable buttstock, collapsible stock, and quad rail handguard, allowing you to customize it to your preferences. It is also accurate up to 800 meters and uses .308 Winchester rounds.

Ruger American Predator Rifle 

This rifle is perfect for hog hunters because it is lightweight and easy to use. It has a 20″ heavy, fluted barrel with a 1:8 twist rate, making it highly accurate at long distances.

This rifle is also equipped with a threaded muzzle for sound suppressors and uses .223 Remington rounds.

FAQs

Q. Is hog hunting legal?

A. Yes, hog hunting is legal in many states within the United States. However, before you hunt hogs, research the specific regulations in your state and county, as they can vary significantly from place to place. Additionally, you may need to obtain a license or permit before you can legally hunt hogs.

Q. What type of firearm should I use for hunting hogs?

A. Choosing the right firearm for hog hunting depends on the unique needs and preferences of the hunter, as well as regulations in your area.

Generally, shotguns are preferred when hunting small games such as hogs, while high-powered rifles are better suited for larger games. Whatever firearm you choose, make sure that it is well-maintained and safe to use.

Q. What should I do if I come across a hog while hunting?

A. Remain still and keep your eyes on the hog until it moves away from you or out of sight. Suppose the hog moves closer and back away slowly and calmly.

Never approach a wild hog, as they can be unpredictable and dangerous. If you feel threatened by the animal, take necessary steps to protect yourself, such as using bear spray or other deterrents.

Conclusion

Hog hunting can be a rewarding and enjoyable experience. Still, it’s important to ensure you are familiar with all applicable hunting laws and regulations before you go on a hog hunting trip.

Additionally, ensure that your firearm is well-maintained and safe to use, and take the necessary steps to protect yourself if you encounter an aggressive hog. Hog hunting can be fun and exciting with the right preparation and safety measures.