If you have spent any time in any part of Texas you will know that feral hog hunting, also known more simply as boar hunting, is really a statewide favorite hunter's activity. Not only are feral hogs a true challenge but they are also very intelligent, making for an excellent hunt all the way around.

There are a lot of myths and legends out there about how difficult it is to actually drop a feral hog and most are exaggerated a great deal. There are very strategic areas on the hog's body to aim for to ensure you can bring home your trophy hog each and every time you go on a hunt. The guides at Escondido Ranch will provide insight into the best spots to aim for on the hog, after that it is all up to you.

One of the key differences in feral hogs and other types of game animals is that there hogs really don't have a natural home territory or zone where they tend to feed and live. In reality feral hogs are natural nomads and will travel great distances in any direction to find food, water and to breed. This means that without regular feeding and territory control with fences it is possible to see lots of signs of hogs but never actually get a look at a live animal. Pressure from hunting dogs, domestic animals or even other species of wild animals will easily push hogs in and out of different territories, or make their activities nocturnal, causing a lot of frustration for hunters.

Having a set feeding area allows hunters to more accurately be able to predict where hogs are likely to be. This also tends to keep the sows in a reasonable geographic space, also of course attracting the boars. As a prolific animal, feral hog sows will produce at least two litters a year with an average of four piglets per litter. These piglets will likewise be ready to breed at about 6 months of age, providing options for rapid number growth in just a few years. It is estimated that a breeding sow will produce up to 1000 feral hogs in just five years with a birthrate of 1:1 male to female piglets.

Rooting in open areas is the most obvious sign of feral hog activity. This is unmistakable with large patches of grass and ground cover ripped up and the bare dirt loosened and exposed. The more frequently the hogs root and feed in the area the more pronounced the destruction will be. Wallows or rubs where the hogs spend time cooling off from the heat of the day are also great spots to set up feeders and start to establish a routine for the hogs.

Even when feeding or baiting the hogs into one area it is still essential for hunters to respect the intelligence and natural alertness of these animals. It is important to have a well established blind or tree stand that provides maximum cover and protection. Hogs will avoid areas where they know hunters have been, especially if they have experienced being shot at in the past.

For your next hunting adventure, family vacation or a corporate retreat, bring your entire family, friends and business associates to Escondido Ranch.