BUMP IN THE NIGHT

Texas! Just the mention of its name evokes images of big bucks, the famous “Don’t Mess with Texas” slogan, memories of the Alamo, and, of course, hogs!

Among the many things Texas is renowned for, feral hogs stand out as one of the biggest challenges facing the Lone Star State. According to reports from the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (TPWD), the feral hog population has skyrocketed from 2.4 million to nearly 7 million across the United States, with an estimated 2.6 million of them calling Texas home in the past 34 years, as of 2016. It’s evident that this issue will only escalate if left unchecked.

This is where we, the average sportsmen, step in. Throughout the state, sportsmen arm themselves to combat this invasive species using any means necessary. One popular method involves nighttime hunting, utilizing bright green lights, night vision, or thermal technology to track down these elusive creatures.

Recently, The Average Sportsman teamed up with local guide South Texas Elite Outfitters to take down a few feral hogs lurking in the darkness. The experience was eye-opening, as we were confronted with the sheer magnitude of the hog invasion in the area. The relentless stream of feral hogs crossing our paths was unforgettable, with another group appearing seemingly moments after each shot was fired.

It’s sobering to realize that our encounter in a small area in Zapata was just a fraction of the larger problem plaguing Texas. The fight continues for The Average Sportsman, and we can always count on South Texas Elite Outfitters to remain at the forefront of this ongoing battle.