Pigs were first introduced to North America by Spanish explorers 500 years ago, but today, there are more than 6 million feral pigs in the nation, scattered across 39 states, according to estimates from the U.S. Department of Agriculture.
That being said, whether you're a seasoned hunter or still a novice, if you're planning any type of hog hunting trip, it's important to form a game plan and come prepared. Here are just a few mistakes to avoid when planning a hog hunt.
Ignoring The Effects Of Wind
Wind can be more than just a mild nuisance -- it can actually ruin your chances at hunting a hog, seasoned hunters say. Check the weather prior to your trip and keep in mind that wind is certainly a major factor. While humans have only 387 active olfactory receptor genes, pigs have 1,113. Their sense of smell is so good that they are capable of sensing odors five miles away. This means that if the wind is strong enough and headed in the right direction, it can completely give you away to any nearby hogs, who will instantly pick up the scent and take off running.
Covering Up Your Scent Too Much
Yes, that's right -- just as it's a mistake to neglect how the wind affects your scent, it can also be a dead giveaway to nearby animals if you're using too much. Most scent control products are designed to be used sparingly, so don't feel like you need to completely coat yourself with the stuff to stay hidden. Just a bit will certainly do the trick!
Losing Patience
One of the main ideas to keep in mind during any type of Oklahoma hog hunting trip is to always stay patient. Seasoned hunters understand this all too well, and many have even found inner peace while waiting for just the right moment to strike. This can often take hours, and if you aren't willing to put in the time, hog hunting may not be for you.
Ultimately, understanding these mistakes and how to avoid them is the key to making the most of any hog or boar hunting trip. For more information about Oklahoma hunting ranches, contact Hog Wild OK.
