The Best Time of Year for Hog Hunting in Texas

Feral hog hunting has become more than just a pastime in Texas—it’s a necessity. Feral hog populations in Texas are estimated at over 2.5 million, Texas leads the nation in feral hog activity, resulting in millions of dollars in damage to crops, livestock, and property every year. To control this invasive species, hog hunting is not only encouraged—it’s become a year-round opportunity for outdoor enthusiasts.

But if you're wondering when to hunt hogs in Texas for the best results, timing is everything. The state’s diverse climate and terrain create unique seasonal behaviors in feral hogs, making some times of the year more productive than others.

Below is a detailed breakdown of when to hunt hogs in Texas, season by season.

Winter (December – February): Peak Breeding and Optimal Visibility

Winter is one of the most effective times to hunt hogs in Texas. Here’s why:

Cooler Weather = Longer Hunts: The drop in temperature makes it easier and more comfortable for hunters to stay active throughout the day without the heat stress that summer brings.
Increased Hog Activity: Feral hogs are in survival mode during the winter and must forage more frequently, making them more visible.
Breeding Season: Winter marks the peak of the hog breeding season. Boars are often more aggressive and cover more territory during this time, increasing your chances of a successful sighting.

Best strategies: Use feeders near open fields and trails. Scout for wallows and rooting areas, which are more visible when vegetation is thin.t.

Spring (March – May): High Movement and Food Foraging

Spring is another great window when to hunt hogs in Texas, especially for those targeting open farmland and pastures:

New Vegetation Draws Hogs: As crops begin to grow and gardens are planted, hogs migrate to these food-rich areas.
Easier Spotting: Shedding their heavy winter coats, hogs become more visible against the bright green spring foliage.
Post-Winter Hunger: The need for food after the lean winter months makes hogs more predictable in their foraging patterns.

Best strategies: Focus on areas near water sources, crop edges, and tree lines where fresh growth attracts hog activity.

Summer (June – August): Challenging but Strategic

While summer may not seem ideal due to Texas’s intense heat, experienced hunters know there are still opportunities:

Activity Concentrates at Dawn and Dusk: Due to extreme daytime temperatures, hogs become crepuscular, meaning they’re most active during the early morning and late evening.
Dependence on Water: Water scarcity forces hogs to gather near ponds, rivers, and shaded creek beds.
Night Hunts: Many outfitters offer night vision and thermal scope hunts to beat the heat and target hogs during their most active hours.

Best strategies: Time your hunts carefully and bring the right gear for low-light or nighttime conditions.

Fall (September – November): The Most Productive Season for Hog Hunting in Texas

Ask any seasoned hunter when to hunt hogs in Texas, and many will say fall is the most productive time of year:

Abundant Natural Food: Acorns, pecans, and other tree nuts drop in the fall, drawing hogs out of cover and into open areas.
Crop Harvesting Increases Movement: With crops like corn and soybeans being harvested, hogs flock to the leftover grains and exposed fields.
Cooler Temperatures Return: More comfortable conditions lead to longer, more active hunts.

Best strategies: Set up along field edges and woodland transition zones. Use trail cameras to track movement patterns as food availability changes.

Year-Round Opportunity on Private Land

While there are seasonal peaks, one of the biggest advantages of hog hunting in Texas is its year-round accessibility—especially on private land. There are no closed seasons or bag limits for feral hogs, meaning every month offers a viable opportunity for control and adventure.

Private land outfitters, like Sweetwater Creek Ranch, provide exclusive access to high-traffic hog areas, knowledgeable guides, and equipment that make each hunt safer and more successful. Whether you’re looking for a solo spot-and-stalk experience or a guided night hunt with thermal gear, private land hunting ensures you make the most of when to hunt hogs in Texas—no matter the season.

Book Your Texas Hog Hunt Today

So, when is the best time to hunt hogs in Texas? The answer depends on your preferences, gear, and tolerance for weather conditions. However, with the right strategy and an experienced outfitter, every season can be a good one. Whether you're drawn by winter breeding boars, spring foraging activity, summer night hunts, or fall food binges, there’s always a way to stay one step ahead of these destructive pests.

Ready to take the shot? Contact Sweetwater Creek Ranch today and book your next hog hunting adventure. Experience the thrill, the challenge, and the satisfaction of helping protect Texas land—one hog at a time.