Do I need a license to hunt feral hogs in Texas?

Licensing Requirements

To hunt feral hogs in Texas, you’ll need to obtain a valid hunting license from the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (TPWD). The type of license required may vary depending on your age, residency, and the method of hunting. For example, a non-resident all-game hunting license costs around $315 for 7-32 days of hunting.

As a hunter, you must also follow TPWD regulations regarding artificial feeding, which includes baiting. Artificial feeding is prohibited for most wildlife species in Texas, but it’s allowed for feral hogs under certain conditions. You can use bait if you have written permission from the landowner and if it’s used solely for feral hog hunting. Additionally, you must follow the 5-bait-rule, which states that you can’t use more than five bait sources per 10 acres.

Landowner Permission and Lease Requirements

To hunt feral hogs on private property in Texas, you need written permission from the landowner or their representative. This permission should include the landowner’s name, their relationship to you, the property description, and any specific rules or restrictions. If you’re leasing the land, you’ll need a written lease agreement that includes the hunting privileges and any conditions. Keep in mind that some private properties may have restrictions on hunting, so it’s essential to ask about these before heading out.

Additional Regulations

When hunting feral hogs in Texas, you should also be aware of the following regulations:

• Feral hogs are public property, so you can hunt them on both public and private lands.
• There is no closed season for feral hogs in Texas.
• You can use dogs for hunting feral hogs, but you need to follow local regulations and ensure that your dogs are properly registered.
• Make sure to check the TPWD website for any updates on hunting regulations before your trip.