Helicopter Hog Hunting: Should You Try It?

Sometimes, hunters need new strategies when a species like the feral hog experiences tremendous population growth and causes millions of dollars in agricultural damage. Traditional hunting methods barely dent the feral hog's ecosystem disruption, so hunters have taken to the skies. 

Hunting feral hogs from helicopters combines the adrenaline-pumping thrill of aerial pursuit with an effective invasive species management program. 

If you're considering helicopter hog hunting, let's look at the objectives, legality, costs, and tips for a successful and safe hunting experience.

What is Helicopter Hog Hunting?

Hunting feral hogs from helicopters allows hunters to cover large areas of terrain to locate the quarry quickly. Once a group of hogs is spotted, the hunter can get multiple shots at them, often engaging moving targets that can run at speeds up to 30 mph. 

Helicopter hog hunts in Texas, for example, are growing in popularity due to the state's abundant feral hog population, lack of foliage, and large tracts of open terrain. 

Why Hunt Hogs from the Sky?

Hog hunting from a helicopter is more than the adrenaline rush from flying and shooting small, rapidly moving targets. This relatively new hunting method serves a vital role in managing feral hog populations.

Here are a few reasons why this hunting method is becoming popular:

• Rapid Response: Feral hogs cause an estimated $1.5 billion in economic damages annually across the United States. When a sounder (group) of 20-30 hogs moves onto a property, a helicopter can provide a fast and effective solution to reducing their numbers and possibly scaring them off the property.
  
  
• Efficiency: Helicopters allow hunters to cover more ground and reach areas inaccessible to vehicles. The aerial platform also offers a superior elevated vantage point for spotting hogs. Simply put, helicopters offer the hunter more shot opportunities — between 10 and 25 in an hour — in less time. 
  
  
• Adventure: Not many types of hunting can equal the thrill of flying 50 feet over the ground at speeds up to 65 mph.

With helicopter hunting, add the challenge of hitting a 12-inch vital area on a hog, running and weaving at 30 mph, and you will have the perfect combination of marksmanship and excitement.

Why Texas is the Hotspot

To experience a thrilling feral hog hunt, you should look for helicopter hog hunts in Texas. Specifically, target areas in South Texas, East Texas, and Central Texas.

Here's why:

• Large Feral Hog Population: More than 2.6 million feral hogs call Texas home, and this invasive species occupies 253 out of 254 counties.
• Open Terrain: Texas' vast and sparsely covered landscapes create the perfect conditions for aerial hunting. This terrain makes it easier for pilots to spot the pigs and fly while navigating minimal obstacles.
• Favorable Laws: Texas passed the "pork chopper" law in 2011 to allow landowners and landowner agents to shoot feral hogs and coyotes from helicopters

To increase hunting opportunities and better manage the hog population, Texas eased requirements for feral hog hunters in 2019. If you are hunting on private property with the landowner's authorization, you do not need a hunting license to hunt feral fogs. This requirement also applies to non-resident hunters. 

What to Expect During a Helicopter Hog Hunt

Since hunting hogs from a helicopter is unlike any other hunting or shooting experience, you will receive a detailed safety briefing and training on shooting from a moving platform. Most companies will require you to attend and pass a mandatory safety course before stepping foot in the helicopter.

Outfitters typically supply hearing protection that allows you to communicate with the pilot and rifles with optics. Many provide semi-automatic rifles with red dots for fast target acquisition while flying. Some outfitters may even offer upgrades that include the use of automatic rifles or submachine guns as well as night or thermal vision optics.

Most helicopter hog hunts start at dawn when the hogs are most active. Once you take to the air, you'll fly low at highway speeds over fields and ranches while scanning for sounders. Once the hogs are located, the pilot will maneuver into position to give you clear shots. 

Legal and Ethical Considerations

Even though Texas permits hog hunting from helicopters, the sport is still heavily regulated, and hunters should always ensure they adhere to safe and ethical hunting practices.

Only licensed outfitters with authorization from private landowners can hunt hogs using helicopters. The outfitter must also have an Aerial Wildlife Management Permit from the State of Texas to legally depredate hogs.

Helicopter hog hunting is more about efficient population reduction than hunting. To that end, hunters should prioritize humane, lethal shots to minimize the animal's suffering.

How Much Does it Cost?

Helicopter hog hunting requires specialized equipment with skilled pilots, so the experience comes with a premium price tag.

Depending on the outfitter and hunt duration, expect to pay between $1,500 and $5,000 per session. Upgrades such as automatic weapons, mini-guns, and night vision increase costs.

Typical aerial hunting packages include flight time, firearms rental, ammunition, and guides. For multi-day hunts, lodging and meals may also be included as amenities.

Although aerial hog hunting can be pricey, it is definitely a once-in-a-lifetime experience for hunters who enjoy the thrill of adventure while contributing to managing invasive species in a state overrun by feral hogs.

Tips for a Safe and Successful Helicopter Hog Hunt

To ensure you have the best experience on your helicopter hog hunt, follow these five tips.

1. Practice Shooting from an Elevated, Seated Position 

Due to ballistics, you will need to aim lower than usual to hit your target. You must also know what adjustments you must make to your body position and how you hold the weapon, particularly finding the correct eye relief if you're using an optic.

2. Know Your Firearm

Even if you're renting a gun, most features and safety mechanisms are similar to bolt-action or semi-automatic rifles. You can practice weapons manipulations at home to be confident in your handling abilities when the moment arrives. 

3. Use a Reputable Outfitter

Look for licensed outfitters with strong safety records and ethical hunting practices. Don't hesitate to call the outfitter to discuss policies, standards, and safety measures.

4. Dress Correctly

When shooting from a helicopter, you'll be exposed to the wind, rotor wash, and the elements. Ask your outfitter for appropriate clothing recommendations, especially regarding protective eyewear and headgear.

5. Listen to the Pilot

The pilot will instruct you when to shoot and can help you adjust your shots. After all, helicopters usually move in a combination of directions while you're shooting from an elevated position at a small, fast-moving target.

Follow the pilot's advice regarding points of aim and how far to lead the pig when you take a shot.

Put Safety First When Hunting Wild Hogs from a Helicopter

Hog hunting from a helicopter is a unique experience that combines thrills and conservation, whether you're a seasoned hunter or a novice. Even though the cost can be high, this type of hunt is a remarkable opportunity to test your shooting skills while helping control the population of an invasive species ravaging ecosystems across the southern U.S.

Before looking for a reputable outfitter and planning your hunt, make sure you have the skills and foundation to enjoy a successful hunt. Take a hunter safety course through ilearntohunt to gain the critical knowledge necessary to be an ethical and effective hunter. 

Our courses are fun and state-approved to help you meet the requirements for hunter education for your state

If you live in or hunt hogs in Texas, take our Texas-approved course.
For hunts in other states, choose the course that applies to that state and start learning.