Is It Legal To Shoot A Wild Hog On Your Property In Texas?

When I lived way out in Rankin, Texas, wild hogs were a major problem. We'd just moved from Austin and I wasn't at all familiar with those mean, ugly, hairy, franken-piggies. Sometimes I would see them trotting down the street in my neighborhood in packs. They were fearless and aggressive. They ruined yards, attacked pets, and caused a bunch of fuss.

I'm tellin' y'all. It was country, and wild as hell.

So, what exactly are the rules when it comes to shooting a wild feral hog on your property in Texas?

According to Texas Parks and Wildlife, landowners or their agents are permitted to kill feral hogs on their property, even without a hunting license, if the hogs are causing damage. However, if you plan on trapping or snaring them, you have to have a valid Texas hunting license on the off chance you affect other wildlife in the area.

Feral hogs are not protected in Texas and are classified as exotic, non-game animals. There are no bag limits or hunting season for wild hogs in Texas, but you do have to make sure you have permission from the landowner AND a hunting license if you plan on actually hunting for them.

If you're dealing with a major and persistent feral hog problem, your best bet is to get your hunting license and trap them.

For more information on wild hogs and the best ways to get rid of them, click here.

Good luck with your monster pig problems!