The wild boar is known worldwide for its intelligence, fierce nature, and intimidating looks. Whether you are a sportsman with years of experience or a novice just getting started, here are the reasons hunting wild boar should be at the top of your list.
They’re A Non-Native Species
Many people are surprised to learn that the wild boar is not native to the United States. In fact most wild hogs are descendants of pigs brought over by explorers in the 1500’s which went feral. As such they are considered an invasive non-native species.
Everywhere they live hogs disrupt and throw off the natural balance of the ecosystem and local wildlife. In the U.S. they cause an estimated yearly average of around one and half billion dollars in crop loss and environmental damage.
And with each sow having a reproductive rate of two litters a year with up to twelve piglets each time, it’s easy to see how a boar population can quickly explode especially with an abundant food source.
By hunting wild boar you’re doing your part to help farmers, conserve the environment, and help local wildlife. And of course just by purchasing a license you are contributing to your state’s fish and wildlife agency.
Ample Opportunities
Just about all states with a feral swine population view it not just as something to be controlled but something that ideally needs to be eradicated. And in order to encourage hunters to hunt wild boar they will often offer incentives.
Large bag limits, later permitted hunting hours, and sometimes allowing hogs to be harvested by methods and weapons that other game animals cannot be taken using, are just a few examples. Many states also offer an extended or even year-round boar hunting season.
With so many opportunities hunting wild pigs can give you the chance to spend more days afield. It can also be an excellent way for young sportsmen and new hunters to gain invaluable outdoor experience.
And when hunting on public land, it can often allow you to get out there during times of the year when it’s not crowded such as during deer season. Of course the regulations and seasons will depend on the state you will be hunting in.
A Tough Adversary
Wild pigs are not pushovers. They are an incredibly tough and an even dangerous quarry. They can have formidable tusks which they won’t hesitate to use in a charge if they are cornered, threatened, or injured
Hogs also have a shield of cartilage protecting their vitals, so proper shot placement is crucial. They are also very fast and highly intelligent. Add the fact that they have one of most sensitive noses in the animal kingdom, and you have an animal that will challenge your skills as a hunter and always make for an exciting hunt.
Affordable
Hunting wild boar doesn’t typically cost much; in fact for the amount of meat you can put in the freezer, it can be quite a bargain. If you will be hunting on public land it may only cost you the price of a hunting license. Guided hunts are often much less costly than those for other more “desirable species”.
High-fence operations typically offer wild boar hunts at cheaper rates than hunts more exotic animals. Cheap hog hunts can be found on private land too. With a bit of time and effort you can sometimes find land owners that will allow you to hunt for a small fee, in exchange for meat, or whatever deal you can work out with them.
The Pork Of Course!
One of the best wild boar hunting benefits is the chance to being able to fill your freezer with a large amount of tasty pork. The meat of wild hogs is actually healthier for you than that of their farm-raised cousins.
That’s because wild boar are leaner with typically a third less fat. In many countries around the world wild boar meat is considered a delicacy. With all those potential sausages and pork chops, it can be hard to believe you ever overlooked the wild boar as a game animal.
200 Pound South Carolina Boar Taken With A .30-06
Exciting Methods
Hogs can be hunted using a range of different methods and weapons. Like mentioned above some states allow them to be taken in ways that other game animals can’t.
Stalking, stand hunting, baiting, and hunting with dogs are all popular methods. Baits and wild hog calls are also sometimes used. In Europe, driven wild boar hunting is particularly common.
In recent years shooting hogs from helicopters has even been allowed in places such as Texas. Helicopter wild boar hunting is of course more about eradicating as many of these rooting pests in the most efficient method as possible more than fair chase.
Using rifles, handguns, and bow hunting wild boar can all be incredibly thrilling. Some states allow other weapons for hogs as well such as crossbows, and spears. Using thermal imaging devices and scopes at night are also permitted in some areas.
As you can see there are many reasons you’ll want to start hunting wild boar if you haven’t already. It’s actually our favorite animal to hunt, and we hope we’ve inspired you to get started. May your freezer be full of pork!
Click Here Now to start shopping for Boar Hunting Supplies!
