Hunting Wild Boar in Texas: A Complete Guide
Texas is the epicenter of wild boar hunting in the United States. With an estimated population in the millions and year-round hunting opportunities on private and public lands, the Lone Star State offers some of the most accessible, action-packed hog hunting anywhere. Whether you’re after table fare, helping landowners control exploding hog populations, or looking for a high-volume night hunt, Texas has options for every hunter—and you can compare guided opportunities easily through Find A Hunt.
This guide breaks down the regulations, habitats, gear, shot placement, and field-proven tactics you’ll need to hunt wild boar effectively in Texas.
Why Texas Is the Nation’s Top Hog-Hunting State
Texas has a perfect combination of factors that make wild boar hunting both necessary and productive:
Key Advantages
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Year-round hunting with no closed seasons
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No bag limits on feral hogs
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Massive statewide population in rural and suburban areas
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Multiple hunting styles: spot-and-stalk, night hunts, thermal hunts, bait-and-ambush, and dog-based hunts
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Large percentages of private land with active landowners seeking hog control
The state’s scale and habitat diversity make it possible to hunt hogs anywhere from pine forests to mesquite flats.
Understanding Wild Boar in Texas
Behavior & Daily Movement
Feral hogs in Texas:
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Move heavily at night, especially in warm weather
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Feed near crops, feeders, oak flats, and water
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Use thick mesquite, cedar, and brushy areas for daytime bedding
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Travel in sounders (groups) or as solitary boars
Prime Habitats
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River bottoms
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Mesquite thickets
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Agricultural land (corn, peanuts, sorghum)
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Oak-and-cedar ridges
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Swamps and creek drainages
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Brush country of South Texas
Where there’s water, crops, or cover, there are hogs.
Texas Hog Hunting Regulations (Simplified)
Texas keeps hog rules intentionally flexible to support population control.
What You Need
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Hunting license: Required for most hunters
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No season or bag limit on feral hogs
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Night hunting is legal (check equipment rules by county)
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Landowner permission is mandatory
Additional Notes
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Hunting over bait is allowed on private land
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Aerial gunning and trapping occur but require special permits
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Public-land hog hunting is available but more limited
Always verify the latest Texas Parks and Wildlife guidelines before the hunt.
Best Times of Year for Hog Hunting
Winter & Early Spring
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Cooler temperatures increase daytime movement
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Hogs feed aggressively on winter crops and mast
Summer
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Night hunting shines—thermals and spotlights become essential
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Hogs concentrate around water
Fall
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Agricultural harvest pushes hogs toward remaining food sources
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Great time for spot-and-stalk in fields and brush
Texas hogs are huntable year-round, but temperature often dictates your strategy.
Essential Gear for Texas Hog Hunting
Firearms & Ammunition
Hogs are tough—choose calibers that deliver penetration.
Popular Choices:
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.243 Win, .270 Win, .308 Win
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6.5 Creedmoor
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.30-06
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AR-platform rifles in .223 or 6.5 Grendel (with proper bullets)
Bullet Types:
Bonded or monolithic bullets for consistent penetration through shields and bone.
Optics
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High-quality riflescope (2–10x or similar)
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Thermal or night vision optics for night hunts
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Handheld thermal for spotting sounders at a distance
Clothing & Accessories
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Durable, breathable layers for hot climates
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Snake-resistant boots in brush country
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Shooting sticks or tripods for stability
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Headlamp, thermals, or red/green hunting lights
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Gloves, knife, and game bags
Optional Gear
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Feeder or bait setup for ambush hunts
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Rangefinder for open fields
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Backpacks with hydration systems
Proven Tactics for Hunting Texas Wild Boar
1. Thermal or Night Vision Hunts
The most productive method statewide.
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Locate sounders at distance
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Slowly close the gap using wind direction and cover
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Take broadside shots when hogs calm down to feed
Night hunts offer higher volume and more consistent action.
2. Bait-and-Ambush
Effective on private property.
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Set up near feeders, wallows, or bait sites
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Use blinds or elevated stands
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Hunt evenings and night when hogs move most
This method offers controlled shots and reliable results.
3. Spot-and-Stalk
Great in South Texas brush country and open farmland.
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Glass fields, water sources, and mesquite edges
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Use wind and tall grass to stay concealed
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Move slowly—hogs smell exceptionally well
Best for hunters who enjoy active pursuit.
4. Hunting with Dogs
A traditional and adrenaline-filled method in East and South Texas.
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Dogs track, bay, and hold hogs
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Hunters dispatch hogs once safely contained
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Requires experienced dog handlers
This approach is effective but demanding—best done with a guide.
Shot Placement for Wild Boar
Hogs are tougher than deer due to thick shields and heavy bone.
Best Targets
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Behind the shoulder (heart/lungs)
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Neck shots (clean drop at close range)
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Head shots (only when stable and ethical)
Avoid
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Straight-on shoulder shots with light calibers
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Rushed shots on running hogs
Well-placed bullets are essential for quick, ethical kills.
Field Care & Meat Handling
Hog meat is excellent when handled correctly.
Field Tips
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Cool the carcass quickly—Texas heat spoils meat fast
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Remove hide promptly to release heat
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Clean and bag meat in breathable game bags
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Keep meat shaded during pack-out
Cooking Use
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Sausage and ground meat
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Smoked shoulders
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Slow-cooked roasts
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Chops and ribs
Younger hogs and sows offer the best eating.
Safety Tips for Texas Hog Hunts
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Watch for rattlesnakes and thorny brush
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Beware of aggressive boars, especially when wounded
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Keep firearms clear of dust and debris
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Hydrate consistently in hot weather
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Use proper background awareness during nighttime shooting
Texas terrain can be rugged—always be aware of hazards.
FAQs: Texas Hog Hunting
Do I need a license to hunt hogs?
Yes, unless on your own property. A basic hunting license usually qualifies.
Are hogs dangerous?
They can be—especially wounded boars. Always use caution during recovery.
When is the best time to hunt hogs?
Winter and spring for daytime hunts; summer nights for thermal hunts.
Is baiting legal?
Yes, on private land.
Can I hunt hogs on public land?
Yes, but access is limited compared to private land.
Plan Your Next Texas Hog Hunt
Texas offers unmatched opportunity for wild boar hunters—generous regulations, high densities, and multiple hunting methods make it the top hog-hunting destination in America. With the right gear and strategies, you can enjoy action-packed hunts year-round.
If you're ready to explore guided hog hunts—including thermal-night packages—start browsing trusted outfitters through our hunt marketplace.
