By: Mark Tyson, M.S., Extension Associate
and
Dan Gaskins, B.S., Extension Assistant
Probably the
number one question we get from people is, “Do you know of anyone who will let
me come shoot their pigs for them?” While we do not keep track of or provide
that information, we can suggest how to go about finding hunting opportunities. So if you are thinking “I’m willing to
help” we hope this blog will increase your chances of getting on the other side
of the gate.
Texas: Land of abundance… and private
property.
It is well
known that Texas has an abundance of feral hogs, estimates suggest somewhere
around 2.6 million hogs roam our rangelands and forests. Yet another abundant
resource is folks that are willing to help reduce feral hog populations. We
have the pigs and the hunters, so why can’t you just drive out to the country,
knock on a door, and go hunting? Another thing that is quite abundant in Texas
is private land. According to the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department more than
94% of land in the state is privately owned or operated. Texans take private
property rights very seriously, and most landowners are not keen on the idea of
letting strangers run around their property with loaded guns. Many have heard
stories about people who cannot tell the difference between a pig and a cow.
Who knows you?
“It’s not
what you know, but who you know and who knows you” – Edward Tomilloso. If you
are seeking to gain land access it is important to have someone in your network
that can connect you with a landowner. Having that mutual contact can transform
you from this random person inquiring about hunting opportunities to a friend
of a friend looking to do some hunting. Having the right contact can get you in
the gate; landowners are typically more open to granting land access when a
trusted acquaintance can vouch for you. Once you are on the porch, get to know
the landowner. The first trip you take to the property may not be a hunt, but
will be very important. Once you get to know the landowner on a personal level,
they will likely help you be more successful by showing you around the
property, telling you about the pigs and the problems they are having. Also,
landowners usually talk to their neighbors so remember to make a good
impression. If you show the landowner and their property the proper respect,
maybe they will vouch for you in the future with other landowners. Try to stay
away from the mentality of “I’m doing you a favor”. Yes, you are removing
damage causing invasive species from their property, but they are providing you
with hunting opportunities that guide services can charge a fair bit of money
for. If they want to charge you, look at what they are asking and compare it to
an outfitter or guide service. You are probably still getting a good deal.
No network? No problem!
If no one in
your current network can get you in the gate, increase your network. A simple
way to increase your network is talking with folks you run into throughout the
day. You never know who you will meet and who is in to their network. Bob Burg said
“I define networking as cultivating mutually beneficial, give-and-take, win-win
relationships”. Position yourself to meet the right people, and find a way to
build a mutually beneficial relationship. Most towns in Texas have a morning
coffee spot where locals gather to discuss what has been going on back at the
farm. This is just one example of how you can position yourself to meet the
right people. Other ideas include: a local feed store, hardware store, farm
equipment dealer or attending local agricultural events within the area such as
AgriLife Extension programs. Get to know people; don’t just go into networking
with the sole purpose of a pig hunt. If you walk into a room full of landowners
and say “If anyone needs some pigs shot, I’d be more than willing to help you
out” most landowners will tune you out.
Plan B: Just In Case
It’s always
good to have a plan b; Mike Tyson said “Everyone has a plan ‘till they get
punched in the mouth”. Putting your money where your mouth is can get you in
the gate. Booking a feral hog hunt with a reputable outfitter is a great
alternative to increasing your network. Do your homework when selecting an
outfitter. Remember: it costs nothing to ask questions and you will get what
you pay for! Keep in mind what you are getting for the price. Many outfitters
will offer a package that includes expenses such as lodging, meals, and
transportation. Consider what these costs will be if you have to pay for them
yourself. Be sure to get everything in writing beforehand to make sure all
parties are in agreement on costs and exactly what will occur before, during
and after the hunt.
Pig hunting is an excellent hunting experience
that also helps protect our environment, crops, and livestock from these destructive
invaders. Use your network, be respectful, and be prepared to pay for the
experience. It is definitely worth it.
The hyper-linked resource document below will provide you with quick access to many of our online feral hog resources including publications, fact sheets and videos.
For free educational programming or technical assistance with feral hogs please contact us:
Our services are provided free of charge through a Clean Water Act 319(h) non-point source grant from the Texas State Soil and Water Conservation Board and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.