Yes, you need a hunting license to hunt hogs in Texas, with limited exceptions

Texas requires a hunting license for hog hunting on public land and most private land. The Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (TPWD) issues these licenses to anyone 17 and older. The main exception is hunting on your own land or land you lease — you can hunt hogs there without a license, but only if you own or lease the property and hunt only on that property.

Hogs are classified as non-game animals in Texas, which means the season and bag limit rules differ from deer or turkey. You can hunt hogs year-round on private land with permission, but public land has specific seasons. A hunting license costs between $25 and $48 depending on whether you are a Texas resident and how long you want the license to last.

You do not need a separate hog hunting tag or permit beyond the base hunting license. Once you have the license, you can hunt hogs during the open season without additional paperwork, though you must follow all other state hunting rules — including where you can hunt, what methods are legal, and how you must tag your kill.

Key Takeaways

  • A hunting license is required to hunt hogs in Texas unless you own or lease the land where you hunt.
  • Hogs can be hunted year-round on private land with the landowner's permission, but public land has set seasons.
  • Resident hunting licenses cost $25 for an annual license or $5 for a five-day license; non-residents pay $48 annually.
  • You do not need a separate tag or permit for hogs beyond the standard hunting license.
  • Hogs are classified as non-game animals, so different rules explore compared to game animals like deer.

Who can hunt hogs without a license in Texas

You can hunt hogs without a license if you own the land or have a signed lease agreement with the owner. The property must be in Texas, and you must hunt only on that property — you cannot hunt on neighboring land or public areas without a license. If you lease the land, keep a copy of the lease with you while hunting, as a game warden may ask to see proof of your right to be there.

Children under 17 can hunt hogs with a licensed adult if they are hunting on private land where the adult has permission. On public land, children must have their own hunting license. There is no junior license discount for hog hunting specifically, though Texas does offer reduced-price licenses for young hunters in some cases.

Where you can and cannot hunt hogs in Texas

Public land in Texas — including state wildlife management areas and national forests — has set hog hunting seasons that change by location. You must check the specific rules for the area where you plan to hunt, as some public lands close to hog hunting during certain months. TPWD publishes a hunting guide each year that lists seasons by county and public area.

Private land is more flexible. If you have the landowner's permission, you can hunt hogs year-round on private property. Many landowners welcome hog hunting because hogs damage crops, pastures, and native plants. If you do not own land, ask local farmers or ranchers whether they allow hunting on their property — some charge a fee, and others allow it for free.

What methods are legal for hog hunting in Texas

You can hunt hogs with rifles, shotguns, handguns, bows, and crossbows. There are no restrictions on caliber or ammunition type for hogs, unlike deer hunting. You can hunt hogs at night on private land with a light or thermal scope, but night hunting is not allowed on public land.

Dogs are legal for hog hunting in Texas. Many hunters use dogs to locate and corner hogs, then shoot them. Trapping is also legal on private land with the landowner's permission. On public land, check the specific rules for the area — some allow traps and some do not.

How to get a hunting license in Texas

You can buy a hunting license online through the TPWD website, by phone at 1-800-895-4248, or in person at a hunting and fishing retailer. Online purchase is fastest — you receive your license when ready and can print it or show it on your phone. By phone or in-person, you receive the license the same day.

You will need a valid Texas driver's license or ID number to buy a license. If you are a non-resident, you will need your state ID number instead. Licenses are valid for one year from the date of purchase, though TPWD also sells five-day and one-day licenses at lower prices if you only hunt occasionally.

License costs and types for Texas hunters

A resident annual hunting license costs $25. A five-day license costs $5, and a one-day license costs $3. Non-residents pay $48 for an annual license, $25 for a five-day license, and $10 for a one-day license. These prices are current but may change — check the TPWD website for the most recent rates.

Your hunting license covers all game and non-game animals in Texas, including hogs, deer, turkey, and waterfowl. You do not buy separate licenses for different animals. However, hunting certain animals like deer and turkey requires additional tags or stamps beyond the base license — hogs do not.

What to carry while hunting hogs in Texas

You must carry your hunting license with you at all times while hunting. A game warden can stop you and ask to see it. You can show a printed copy or display it on your phone. If you cannot produce your license, you can be cited for hunting without a license, which carries a fine.

You should also carry proof of land ownership or a lease agreement if you are hunting on private land. While not always required, having it available prevents confusion if a warden checks your hunting location. On public land, know which area you are in and whether hog season is open for that location — TPWD publishes maps and season dates for each public hunting area.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I hunt hogs on someone else's land without a license?

No. You need a hunting license to hunt on any land except your own or land you lease. If the landowner gives you permission to hunt, you still need a license. The only exception is if you own the property or have a signed lease agreement.

Do I need a separate tag or permit for hogs?

No. Hogs are non-game animals in Texas, so you do not need a tag or permit beyond your hunting license. You can hunt as many hogs as you want during the open season, unlike deer or turkey, which have bag limits.

What if I hunt hogs without a license?

Hunting without a license is a violation of Texas Parks and Wildlife Code. Penalties include fines, loss of hunting privileges, and possible court costs. The fine amount depends on whether it is your first offense and the specific circumstances.

Can I hunt hogs at night in Texas?

You can hunt hogs at night on private land with the landowner's permission. Night hunting is not allowed on public land. Many hunters use lights or thermal scopes for night hog hunting because hogs are more active after dark.

How long does a hunting license last?

An annual hunting license is valid for one year from the date you buy it. TPWD also sells five-day and one-day licenses if you hunt only occasionally. Check your license to see the expiration date.