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How to Hunt Hogs During the Day

Hog hunting is an exciting sporting activity practiced mainly by people in the Southern States, such as Texas (TX), Florida (FL), Georgia (GA), and Louisiana (LA). Most hog hunting in GA occurs during the night hours; however, hunting hogs can still be successful during the day. Therefore, various aspects need to be considered for daytime hog hunting. These aspects include; scouting approaches, appropriate weather gear, and considerable patience.

What Is the Best Time to Hunt Hogs?

When deciding on the appropriate time to go hog hunting, it’s worth noting that hogs usually root for food during the nighttime. Therefore, if you want to hunt them during the day, the best hours will be after sunrise and before sunset. These are the times they go back to their bedding locations.

However, various environmental factors will affect the behavior of hogs during the day. For example, hogs are more likely to be rooting throughout the day during cold weather because the cooler temperatures let them travel faster and traverse more area. As a result, they feel more at ease moving at this time.

Hog Indicators

Signs that hogs are in the area include:

The ground is torn up, and there are holes where the hogs rooted for plants roots

Excreta that is fresh

There are wallowing holes (mud holes where hogs lay in the cool mud while it is hot)

Calls

A predator call is the best type of call to use for hogs. Coyote calls are excellent for luring hogs out of their hiding places and into the open. When utilizing this strategy, hunters should maintain a reasonable distance to avoid terrifying the hogs. If disturbed, the hogs can become aggressive and unpredictable in their moves.

Use a Feeder

A feeder is the best technique for hog hunting during daylight hours. If you are interested in getting them out during a specific time, use a timed feeder. It will be releasing a small amount of food at predetermined intervals. Hogs are intelligent animals, and they will eventually learn that the sound of this feeder going off signals a free meal.

Watering Holes

Hogs go near water sources for wallowing, especially when the weather is hot. Therefore, hunting for them at these locations can also work. Look for any spots hogs have been using to wallow, excrete, or roll in the water.

Tracking

It’s hard to track hogs during the day. However, hearing pig grunts and squealing is an excellent way to locate hogs in an area. To avoid alerting hogs of your whereabouts, remain downwind – they’ll smell you before they see you. Also, it’s best to stay away from hog nests during the day when they’re resting. If they are disturbed, they can become quite hostile – even lethal.

Gum Log Plantation

Are you interested in hog hunting in GA? Join us at Gum Log Plantation – a beautiful hunting lodge set on 3,000 acres of hunting land. Let our expert guides take you out on an exciting hunt. It’s a thrilling experience that can also fill your freezer with meat. Contact us today at 229-318-9015 and book your hunting trip.

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Sound Awareness While Hog Hunting

Wild hogs are some of the most sought-after hunter’s marks in the sphere of hunting, partly due to their elusive nature. However, feral hogs can be highly crafty, tenacious, and even dangerous, making them one of the more problematic marks.

So, why exactly are wild hogs so hard to hunt? One reason is because of their highly developed senses. Even though hearing may be one of their least developed senses, it’s still crucial for any hunter worth his salt to be aware of sound throughout the hunt. Keep reading to learn everything you need to know about sound awareness while hog hunting.

Senses of the Wild Hog

Wild hogs, like many wild animals, have some incredibly keen senses. Their sense of smell, sight, and hearing is not to be underestimated and may allow them to detect you long before you get them in your sights.

Sight

A wild hog’s sense of sight is not the most formidable. However, that’s not to say that hogs are blind. But you should know that long before a hog sees you, they’ll probably already smell or hear you.

Smell

A hog’s sense of smell is its keenest sense, allowing it to detect specific odors up to 5 miles away. Therefore, when preparing for the hunt, you should keep this massively sensitive sense of smell in mind and use scent maskers or always stay downwind of the hog’s position to avoid spooking it.

Hearing

Another of the wild hog’s formidable senses is its sense of hearing. Even though its hearing may be a less developed sense, a wild hog can still easily detect a loud whisper up to 100 yards away. So, if you speak at a volume above a whisper for some reason, you can expect a nearby wild hog to flee. And if for some reason you’re close to a wild hog when you speak, it may be prompted to attack, especially if it feels threatened.

It’s important to know that normal movement noises, such as shifting rocks, rustling undergrowth, or snapping twigs, will not spook a wild hog right away. They are known to tolerate such noises for a time, but if they persist or grow louder, the hog may flee.

Gum Log Plantation

Are you new to hog hunting? Gum Log Plantation has expert guides that lead successful hunts. Then after a long day in the field, you’ll retire to a beautiful hunting lodge for delicious meals and a good night’s sleep. So, contact us today at 229-318-9015 and book your hunt.

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Can Wild Hogs Carry Rabies?

If you’ve ever been on a hunting retreat, you may have wondered what kinds of animals around you could be carrying rabies. It’s a scary thought and one that many hunters have had before. There are, of course, your well-known rabies carriers, like raccoons, but what about other kinds of animals, like wild hogs? In this article, we will explore whether or not wild hogs carry rabies, how you can know, and if it’s safe to eat their meat.

Do They Carry Rabies?

So, let’s get the main question out of the way. Can wild hogs carry rabies? The answer is yes. Feral hogs can, in fact, contract and carry rabies. But how does this happen?

Because wild hogs are aggressive and territorial animals, it’s common for them to attack smaller animals that may be carrying rabies. In addition, they could contract and carry rabies in situations where they may sustain an injury from a fox or raccoon. As such, you should always be cautious when hunting if you encounter a wild hog.

How Can You Know?

At first glance, it may not always be apparent when a wild animal is carrying rabies. This statement is true for wild hogs carrying rabies as well. However, there are some key signs and behaviors you can watch for that could indicate a wild hog has rabies.

Early on in the stages of infection, it will be nearly impossible to tell if a wild hog has rabies. However, you may suspect they are carrying the disease if you spot any bite marks on their bodies. As the infection progresses, you’ll notice some classic symptoms. These include whitish-yellow foaming at the mouth, extremely erratic, confused, aggressive behavior, or a general pallor of sickness over the animal. If you spot any of these signs in a wild hog, you should keep your distance and not engage.

Is Wild Hog Meat Safe to Eat?

Should you encounter a wild hog in the early stages of rabies and kill it, are you at risk of getting rabies from its meat? Unfortunately, the answer is not as straightforward as you might think. Thoroughly cooking meat from a non-symptomatic animal carrying rabies will eradicate the virus. However, one should never eat meat from any animal that shows signs of rabies.

Gum Log Plantation

Are you interested in hunting wild hogs? Gum Log Plantation, a hunting retreat in Abbeville, GA, offers a great hunting experience for hunters of all skill levels. Our expert guides know how to spot the healthiest hogs, so you’ll feel safe filling your freezer with your catch. Contact us today at 229-318-9015 and schedule your stay at Gum Log Plantation.

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What to Wear During a Hog Hunt

Wild hogs are an extremely popular animal to hunt in North America. For centuries, hogs have been a food source for hunters and explorers. The great thing about hog hunting is that the season is year-round, and many states encourage hunting these overpopulated destructive animals because it reduces damage done to farmers.

Hog hunting is frequently done at night, so no matter what season or state you’re in, you need to dress warmly. Whether you’re a seasoned hunter trying a new animal or an amateur looking to break into the sport, here is a list of items you should wear for a hog hunt.

Hog Hunting Lodge in Georgia: Gum Log Plantation Hunting Tips

Head & Face

In any sport, you’re going to want to protect your head. For hunting, having the proper headgear is essential to keep you safe.

A baseball cap or a wide-brimmed hat is a great way to protect your face and neck from the sun if you’re hunting during the day. Using a hat also provides some strategic advantages to hog hunting. Hogs don’t have great long-distance eyesight. A head covering of any style or color breaks up your silhouette, making it hard for the hogs to detect you as a danger. An orange hat is recommended so other hunters can see you. In cold weather, wearing a face covering, like a balaclava or a half-face mask, adds some extra protection from the weather.

Upper Body

For summer months, it’s reasonable to go hog hunting in a t-shirt. However, long pants are still advised to protect you from ticks and bugs. For the same reason, a lightweight, long-sleeved t-shirt is also a great option.

In the winter months, you should layer up. It’s best to have 1-2 layers underneath a heavy, water-resistant jacket. Dry-fit or lightweight wool shirts are great for under layers as they are moisture-wicking and keep your body temperature from dropping.

Lower Body

In general, you’ll want to wear pants for a hog hunt because of the bugs in the high grass areas where hogs congregate. In addition, wearing long pants protects your legs from scratches and bites. You’re going to want to wear hiking or hunting boots for your foot coverings. Boots are durable enough to protect you from animal bites and let you traverse rugged terrain.

It is recommended you don’t wear jeans for hunting. Denim material is not very flexible, and if jeans get wet, they become heavy and difficult to dry. Instead, wear hiking or hunting pants – they have extra pockets and are usually water-resistant.

Hog hunting is a fun year-round sport that anyone with a hunting license can enjoy, and hog hunting attire is simple. However, you’ll want to dress for the elements and have basic protections for arms and legs.

Gum Log Plantation

Do you enjoy hog hunting or want to try the sport? Gum Log Plantation is happy to help. Our hunting lodge in Georgia is located on 3,000 acres of prime hunting land, and our expert guides know where to find the hogs. Contact us today at 229-318-9015 and book your trip today.

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10 Things to Pack for Your Deer Hunt

If you’ve ever been deer hunting, you know it consists of hours spent outdoors in the middle of the wilderness; therefore, it’s essential to bring along everything you could need. When heading on a hunting retreat, here is a list of 10 things you should pack for your deer hunt.

Hunting Retreat: Deer Hunting Essentials

Compass/GPS. A hunter’s worst nightmare is trekking too deep into the woods and not being able to find their way back out again. Getting lost can be a disastrous issue when hunting deer, so you should never forget to bring along a compass or GPS.

First Aid Kit. In the case of an injury while out hunting, it can be a lifesaver to have a first aid kit on hand. A first aid kit will allow you to treat cuts, stings, and other injuries.

Firestarter. Fire can be a massive boon to any hunter out hunting, especially if you’re hunting in the cold. So, always have a way to start a fire.

Knife. You never know when you might need to cut something while you’re hunting. So whether it’s a branch, a piece of cloth, or whatever else, a knife is handy to have along.

Boots. A comfortable pair of boots is also an essential item. When hunting deer, you’ll be covering a lot of ground on foot, so you’ll want some sturdy and comfortable footwear to cushion your feet along the way. Also, take an extra pair of socks to ensure your feet stay dry.

Rattling Antlers. One of the best ways to attract deer into shooting range is to mimic the noises a buck makes and having rattling antlers is incredibly helpful.

Binoculars. As you’ll be searching far and wide for a deer to bring down, binoculars can assist in spotting deer from long distances.

T-Handle Saw. These small saws have a wide range of uses, from cutting tree branches to sawing through the skin and bone of any deer you might bring down.

Paracord. This compact cord can be handy when dragging a buck back to your truck or when you might need to tie something to your pack.

Canteen. Staying hydrated while hunting is essential, as you wouldn’t want to start getting lightheaded when a deer comes into range. So, make sure you have water and throw in a high-energy snack bar too.

Gum Log Plantation

Deer hunting is an outdoor activity enjoyed by many. Having an extraordinary experience is the goal of Gum Log Plantation, a hunting retreat in Abbeville, GA. Our expert guides will take you on hunts through our 3,000-acre grounds then return to the lodge for relaxation and delicious meals. So come and experience deer hunting at its best – call 229-318-9015 and book your hunt today.

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Hunting Lodge Rule #1 – Safety First

Hunting is a sport enjoyed by many people. However, due to the nature of the sport, being careless can have grave results. If you’re a hunter or plan to visit a hunting lodge in Georgia, it’s essential to practice all safety precautions when out in the field.

There are many things to consider when it comes to safety, from knowledge about your target and what’s beyond it to using the correct gear and being aware of your surroundings. This blog post will discuss some essential safety tips for hunters and hunting lodges alike.

Hunting Safety Tips

Check Your Equipment Regularly

The supplies you carry or have nearby will depend on the type of animal hunted, the hunting style used, and time out in the field. Either way, checking your equipment is one of the most important things to do before heading out. Hunting equipment can include:

Hunting Vest or Backpack – This should be well-padded and have a lot of pockets to store your gear. Bright-colored or camouflaged will depend on the hunting style or local hunting season requirements.

Gun – Make sure the gun is clean and in good condition, with no cracks or rust on the barrel. The gun’s safety should always be engaged until it’s time to fire.

Clothing – Take a second set of clothing to stay dry and warm. A second pair of socks is essential.

Hunting Plan – It is recommended to leave a written hunting plan that shows departure dates, times, locations, and when you plan to return. Leave a copy at home and one on your vehicle. This information will save crucial time if a search is required in an emergency.

Sighting Your Gun

Another important safety tip for hunters is sighting their guns regularly. Hunting can be an enjoyable sport, but it’s also hazardous if done incorrectly. Hunting is not safe unless you’re ready to handle firearms. By shooting often, you can improve your skills tremendously and gain the confidence to be on target every time you fire your gun. Also, store your weapon in a case to reduce the chances of getting off the mark. Then, when possible, test your sighting by taking one shot.

Wear The Appropriate Clothing

When you’re visiting your favorite hunting spot, be sure to wear appropriate clothing. In most cases, experts recommend wearing brightly-colored hunting vests and hats as they help you be seen from all directions. Bright colors, such as orange, green, or yellow, are best so that other hunters can easily spot you. However, wearing camouflage under the vest or with the hat hides you from most animals because the pattern breaks up the human silhouette when set against the foliage.

Gum Log Plantation

If you are looking for an unforgettable hunting experience, look no further than Gum Log Plantation. The plantation is home to Georgia’s biggest deer, turkey, and hog populations. Also, the lodge was built for hunters and their families – it’s the perfect place to relax after a long day in the woods. So, call 229-318-9015 today and schedule a hunting experience you’ll never forget. But most importantly, remember to hunt safely – safety is their number one priority.

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Our Most Popular Hog Butchering Techniques

Feral hogs aren’t the same as the domestic pigs most of the public is used to seeing. They are not even native to this country. Texas has the largest population of feral hogs, but North Carolina, Georgia, Florida, and California also have large wild hog populations. Hunting helps control these populations; plus, wild hogs are good to eat. So, if you’re hunting them for more than sport, it’s essential to understand how to butcher the animal properly. Here are some butchering tips and tricks of the trade to ensure safety.

Gum Log Plantation Hunting Lodge in GA: Hog Butchering Tips

Use the Right Tools

Butchers need the right tools to process the hog properly. An experienced butcher will never forget any of these tools:

Boning knife

Meat saw

Cleaver

Bone dust scraper

Clip point knife

Drop point knife

Slicing knife

Latex gloves

Butchering Overview

Before separating the best meats, the animal must be split in half.

Halve the Carcass– Split the breastbone with a knife while locating its center and cut down to the bone straight from neck to tail. This line is the guide. Be careful while sawing the hog in half, and then clean it by removing veins and organs.

Making the Cuts – First, cut parallel from the spine to the tailbone to get the Tenderloin. Pull the meat away and separate it. Next, cut through a leg for a short Ham or shoulder for a whole ham. Afterward, cut around the third rib, saw through the bone, and split the shoulder. Next, use the knife to cut through the meat to make a Picnic Shoulder and Boston Butt. Next, divide the belly. Finally, cut the ribs straight using the saw until they break in half. This last cut will separate the top loin and the belly.

Hunting Lodge in GA

Now that DIY butchering is out of the way, it’s time to consider where to go hunting. In the state of Georgia, you can have an experience that can’t be matched anywhere else. Some of the best hunting lodges are located in Georgia. Georgia has the perfect ecosystem for hog hunting, with swampland and hunting grounds along the Ocmulgee River. Of course, these hunting grounds don’t guarantee that each hunt will be successful, but Gum Log Plantation has a high success rate.

Gum Log Plantation

One of the best hunting lodges in GA is Gum Log Plantation. The grounds are full of targets. The plantation has expert guides with the experience necessary to advise hunters eager to have a rewarding adventure. So, if you’re itching to catch a feral hog, contact Gum Log Plantation at 229-318-9015 and book a trip.

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Wild Hogs: What Senses Do They Have?

Wild hogs (also known as wild boars) are fascinating creatures. They typically live in forests and swamps, but they also enjoy living near lakes and rivers. Feral or Wild hogs are intelligent animals with excellent sensory perception. Here are the senses that most hunters need to be familiar with when hunting and tracking wild hogs.

Hunting Lodge in GA: Wild Hog Hunting Tips

Sense of Smell

Wild hogs have an excellent sense of smell. They can smell food from miles away, and they use their noses to root around in the ground for food. This strong sense of smell also helps them detect danger – they can easily smell the scent of a predator or other animals that might be dangerous. Smell is the strongest of their senses. Therefore, hunters need to stay downwind from wild hogs to remain undetected.

Hearing

Wild hogs also have excellent hearing. They can hear things happening far away and use their ears to listen for danger. In addition, hogs can also distinguish between different types of noises. They will tolerate everyday noises such as rustling leaves or swaying tree branches but flee any unusual sound. A wild hog’s hearing is so sensitive that they can hear a human whisper from 100 yards away. It can help protect them from predators but can also be very problematic. Therefore, hunters need to be very aware of any sound they generate.

Monocular Vision

Contrary to what some ill-informed articles would make you believe, wild hogs aren’t blind. They have excellent vision. Unlike human beings, they have monocular vision (independently focusing each eye on different things). This type of vision gives them a significant advantage when spotting food, danger, or prey, but it lacks depth perception. The result is wild hogs see movement 100 yards away but often don’t react because they do not detect it as an immediate danger, but any nearby action or even shadows will send them fleeing.

Hunting Wild Hogs

Many people like to hunt wild hogs. One way to improve your hunting skill is to understand how different senses help wild hogs survive. By knowing how they smell, hear, and see, you can better determine where they might be hiding or what type of terrain they prefer. Understanding their senses can help you become a better hunter!

Gum Log Plantation

If you are new to hunting or an avid wild hog hunter, you should make your way to Gum Log Plantation. The expert guides at Gum Log Plantation can provide all the relevant information regarding wild hog hunting, so you have a fantastic hunting experience. So, schedule a stay at a wonderful hunting lodge in GA by calling 229-318-9015 today.

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What Makes Wild Hogs Such Pests?

It might be shocking to learn that Georgia is home to feral hogs, commonly called wild boars. These animals are highly invasive and a significant nuisance for ranchers, farmers, and people living near wildlands and rural areas. They invade fields, eat and destroy crops, tear up land rooting, and defecate, spreading parasites and bacteria. Hog hunting is one way to control their rapidly increasing population.

Hog Hunting in GA: Controlling Pests

How Did the Pigs Become Wild?

Wild pigs, like many other invasive species, were created accidentally. Spanish missionaries brought domestic pigs with them as a food source when they came to America. However, the pigs were released from pens to forage, and many weren’t recaptured. They then became feral after escaping domestication. Later, in the 1900s, European wild boars were introduced to America for sport hunting. The two types of pigs interbred and produced what is found in the wild today.

What Makes Them Such a Problem?

Wild pigs are invasive and destructive pests with ravenous appetites for many plants and animals. They will kill and eat small farm animals and other wildlife. Pigs compete for food with native wildlife, often forcing the natives from the area or starvation. They dig up land designated for grazing livestock when searching for food and disturbing native vegetation. In suburban areas, they cause damage to gardens and lawns through rooting.

It is estimated that wild boars cause $1.5 billion in economic damage to the environment and agriculture every year. Wild boars invade farms and cause severe destruction to crops and the native vegetation leaving farmers counting losses. No wonder farmers engage in hog hunting to get rid of these pests.

Not only are the wild pigs destructive, but they also spread diseases. They’re known to carry E. coli and Salmonella, which are infectious to humans. They can also pass potentially devastating diseases to domestic livestock and wildlife. In addition, wild hogs host more than 34 parasites that affect various animal species.

Wild pigs can be contained and managed through hog hunting. Laws and regulations regarding wild pigs or feral hog hunting are available by state. Most states allow hog hunting all year long. Check local regulations before hunting.

Gum Log Plantation

Are you interested in hog hunting in GA? Gum Log Plantation is a beautiful hunting lodge in Abbeville, GA, set on 3000 acres of fertile hog hunting land. Our expert guides will take you on an exciting experience of hunting and tracking these invasive beasts. Contact us today at 229-318-9015 to book your hog hunting trip.

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Why Hunters Are the Most Impactful Conservationists

Hunters are a driving force behind our country’s conservation efforts. But, in terms of a single animal, you wouldn’t think hunting aids conservation. However, it’s only in a much broader sense, where hunting aims to assist conservation efforts for the ecosystem as a whole, does it start to make sense.

Hog Hunting in GA: A Conservation Effort

What Is Conservation?

Conservation is the act of preserving, securing or safeguarding a limited resource. For example, many animal populations become extinct if they are hunted without restrictions. However, by that same token, many animals and plant species benefit from fewer predators in an ecosystem. Therefore, you can see that sustaining biodiversity in the ecosystem is hunting’s most important conservation effort.

How Does Hunting Help Conservation?

Let’s take hog hunting in GA, for instance. Since wild hogs are a nuisance and immensely destructive, allowing hog hunting helps to keep the population in check and the ecosystem balanced. If hog hunting in GA were suddenly outlawed, the wild hog population would become out of control. Hogs are voracious eaters consuming both the plant and roots, destroying native plants, crops, and pastureland, causing soil erosion. The decline in vegetation starves additional native animals. In addition, feral hogs prey on livestock and other native wildlife and can seriously threaten endangered species in the area. Hunting plays an essential role in keeping these things in check.

Spread of Disease

Wild hogs are reservoirs for many serious infectious diseases in domestic animals, including swine fever, brucellosis, and trichinellosis. Feral swine can also spread diseases to humans such as hepatitis E, tuberculosis, leptospirosis, salmonella, and trichinellosis. Controlling their population through hunting keeps the spread of disease in check.

The Verdict. Does Hunting Help Conservation?

Hunting certainly helps conservation in a broad sense. For example, it helps secure and protect biodiversity, keeps animal and plant populations at sustainable levels, and ensures that the spread of disease does not get out of control.

Ready to help control the wild hog population? Hog hunting season varies depending on who owns the land. There are different stipulations for state, federal, and privately owned land parcels, so check local regulations before hunting.

Gum Log Plantation

Are you interested in hog hunting in GA? Gum Log Plantation can plan the perfect trip for you, your friends, and your family. Our beautiful hunting lodge is set on 3000 acres of wonderful private hunting land. Our guides are skilled and knowledgeable in the area’s wildlife, guaranteeing an enjoyable experience. Contact us today at 229-318-9015, and we’ll help plan your outing.

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Hog Hunting – What Caliber?

Hog hunting in GA without the right firearm caliber is like going to the field without adequate protection. If the hogs come at you, you may end up becoming “the hunted” instead of returning with a big game.

No doubt, the 9-millimeter is the most common cartridge in the world. It actually can be a good hog hunting sidearm. But you will likely want to arm yourself primarily with something that has a bit more stopping power. Also, consider where you are, the distance, and the size of the hogs you are hunting when selecting your firearm. Because you always want to have the upper hand each time you launch into a hunting expedition, here’s how to know what caliber will suit your hog hunting expedition.

9mm- Can It Take Down a Hog?

Yes, it can take down a hog, but hog hunting using a caliber as small as 9mm has its risks. As a result, most hunters use it in short-distance hunting (less than 10 yards), and it’s recommended to be used more as a secondary firearm than a primary one.

.243 Winchester

If you’re great at taking shots up to 400 yards away, this cartridge will complement your skills perfectly. Its low recoil is part of what’s responsible for its ‘enviable’ accuracy and lethality when taking down feral hogs. Its projectile grain weight ranges between 58 up to 108, and one can quickly tell that it functions like a .24 caliber bullet having a .308 Winchester trapped in it. When hunting feral hogs, bullets of 100 grains or heavier are enough. Overall, it’s a popular option for hog hunting.

.30-06 Family Group

Are you looking for more options to take down feral hogs? Don’t overlook the .30-06 family tree. Cartridges in this category include 280 Ackley Improved, .30-06 Springfield (which can take shots up to 800 yards with heavier bullets weighing between 110 up to 225 grains), and the 35 Whelen. These are generally known as long action rifles, and they’ve helped hunters bag feral hogs. They are versatile and offer lighter versions to suit your preference.

Hog Hunting

Feral hogs are overpopulated in many areas of the USA. They are highly destructive and can starve out native animal species. Hunters play a vital role in lowering the number of hogs. So, if you enjoy hunting, feral hogs are a great target, and a kill will fill your freezer full of delicious meat.

Gum Log Plantation

With over 3,000 acres of hunting space full of wild hogs, Gum Log Plantation can arrange great group hunts. Our expert guides can help you bag that hog. Contact us today at 229-318-9015 and make arrangements for a group hunt this winter.

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Last-Minute Gift Ideas: A Wild Hog Hunt

Many of us have outdoor enthusiasts in the family who like to hunt or participate in outdoor activities. With the holidays coming up, it is crucial to find the right gift for your loved ones. After all, there are endless options. So, if you are looking for last-minute gift ideas for the hunters in your family, you have come to the right place. Here is the top gift idea this season.

Hog Hunting in GA, the Perfect Gift

Outdoor Activity Gift Certificates

Gift certificates are a great way to give someone an experience. There are many available, and they incorporate various activities. From a hog hunt in GA to many other outdoor activities, gift certificates offer a wide variety of experiences.

Unlike some experiences, the middle of winter is the best time for a hog hunt. There is no hunting season for hogs; they can be hunted any time of year. Plus, hogs are active during the cold days of winter. Being outside in the crisp winter air, tracking hogs in the snow is an exhilarating experience for people of any age and something your gift recipient will never forget.

Hog Hunting in GA

Georgia (GA) has a large wild hog population. Many places offer hog hunts. At Gum Log Plantation, we offer many hunting retreats for our fellow outdoors persons. You can choose from any of the hunting retreats and gift it. Better yet, purchase another certificate for a buddy so they can go together.

The best part is that the gift receiver will connect with other people who also share a love of hunting. It is one of the best ways to make new connections with people who have similar interests. So, check out buying a hog hunt or any hunting retreat they would love.

Gum Log Plantation

Most people already have too much stuff. Giving an experience, whether something they already love to do or as a new event, creates memories that last a lifetime (and you never have to dust it). Gum Log Plantation offers various hunting retreats for singles, families, or groups. We have 3,000 acres of hunting land, and our comfortable lodge is a beautiful place to relax after a day outdoors. Our meals are top-rated, and the meat is fresh. So, give us a call at 229-318-9015, and we’ll help you select the best option for your gift recipient.

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Hunting for Meat vs. Hunting for a Trophy

There is a lot more to it than just skill when it comes to hog hunting in GA. People hunt for two reasons: enjoying the meat or using the animal as a trophy. Let’s look at the first group – those that want to consume the meat they hunt. Some people worry about consuming wild hog meat, but it is perfectly safe to eat when properly handled.

Safety And Consumption Issues

Eating wild hog meat is similar but not the same as farm-raised pork. Wild hogs have a broader diet than farm-raised animals, making the meat more complex. Also, feral hogs are very active, so their fat and muscle composition are different from the farm-raised pork you find in the grocery store. Nevertheless, wild hog meat is delicious.

For the best results, take all precautions when field-dressing your hog. Improper handling of the meat can contaminate it.

Signs You Have Bad Meat

Once you have the meat at home and are preparing to consume it, look for any signs that the meat might have gone bad. A strong odor is one of the top signs you have spoiled meat. The smell will be pungent and rotten. Also, if you notice any unusual colors such as yellow, green, or blue, these indicate that hog meat is not safe to consume. Dispose of this meat.

The Ethics of Trophy Hunting

Many people indulge in hog hunting to mount the hog head on their walls. There are some that object to hunting animals as a sport, but hogs are highly destructive. Hogs eat everything in their path, often leaving no food for other animals in the area. They don’t just eat the plant but rut and eat the roots – leaving the site barren. This destruction causes a significant imbalance in the local animal and food chain.

Hogs negatively impact local agriculture causing $1.5 billion of damage each year. Therefore, controlling their exploding population is critical to the farming industry. Hunting is the one way to thin the numbers, especially in regions with no natural predators.

Gum Log Plantation

Whether you are hunting for meat or trophy, the expert guides at Gum Log Plantation can make hog hunting in GA a successful experience. With over 3000 acres to hunt in a region with a high hog population, bagging a hog is almost a sure thing. So, fill your freezer or a blank space on your wall by booking a hunting trip and call 229-318-9015 today.

 The post Hunting for Meat vs. Hunting for a Trophy first appeared on Gum Log Plantation.

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Hog Hunting: The Perfect Family Bonding Trip

Who wants some adventure? Hog hunting is the best way to treat your family and loved ones to some exciting and rewarding escapades. Thankfully, Gum Log Plantation provides the right atmosphere. The plantation includes over 3000 acres of prime hunting land, comfy lodges, amenities for your security & comfort. That way, you can head out using your best hog hunting tips and techniques to bag animal trophies. Here’s more on why hog hunting can be the perfect bonding trip for your family.

A Weekend Retreat

There’s no better time than now to ditch the comfort of your home for a weekend retreat or hog hunting getaway. If you’re thinking of where to begin, Gum Log Plantation will give you a great start. There’s something to keep everyone busy. It’s one of the best places to connect with nature and have an experience of a lifetime.

Hog Hunting Tips: Make It a Family Trip

Gum Log Plantation welcomes the whole family. There’s enough land to explore- over 3000 acres of scenic Georgia land and over 40 stands for the exceptional hunting experience. The lodge is located in Abbeville, GA, the wild hog capital of the world, meaning there’s plenty of targets to keep everyone engaged.

Fun Activities for All

You can play a game of “who gets the biggest catch” with your loved ones. If the family is large or there are youngsters involved, break into teams.

Other activities to explore (depending on the season) are fishing, deer hunting, and pontoon boat rides down the Ocmulgee River (it’s home to the world’s record largemouth bass and the prime habitat for wild hogs hunting).

Can you now see why it’s an extraordinary way to enjoy nature and bond with your family?

What’s Next After Hog Hunting?

After an adventurous day of hunting, you can settle in for some tasty foods. Our menus range from local fish and wild game to the famous Georgia barbecue.

The elegant and warm accommodations are furnished to taste and spacious enough to help the whole family relax in preparation for the next outing. In addition, the environment allows you to learn new hog hunting tips and connect with other families (beginner and professional hunters) who share the same passion for the outdoors.

Gum Log Plantation

Gum Log Plantation is a private lodge that’s home to all-things hunting and the best environment to wield those hog hunting tips to your advantage. There can be no dull moment for your family, and it’s an experience you’ll relish for a very long time. So call Gum Log Plantation at 229-318-9015 today and book your fall or winter trip.

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The Basics of Stalking a Feral Hog

Feral hogs are getting out of control. If left alone, these animals can roam around the countryside and do a lot of damage to the environment. Unfortunately, many states are vastly populated with these wild pigs, and to date, they have little hope of eliminating them. Luckily, hunting is one of the solutions. Gum Log Plantation is a hunting lodge in GA and is the perfect place to launch an assault on these animals and fill your freezer at the same time. But what does it take to creep up on these highly intelligent creatures?

Gum Log Hunting Lodge GA: Tips for Stalking Hogs

Let’s look at a hunting scenario of what will teach a lesson on hunting hogs.

On a summer day, just before dusk, a hunter makes his way out of a cabin with the hopes of bagging some feral hogs. He had boasted to his friends about his hunting finesse, and this day was not going to be any different, he thought.

This hunter thought the best thing to do would be to find a hog wallowing spot and hang around till the sun goes down when the hogs would be more active. Less than two hours after the decision, he lazily adjusted his binoculars and nearly missed it – about a few hundred yards in the distance; he noticed some movement. Thinking it was deer, he moved closer.

Suddenly he hears a squeal which directs his attention to a group of feral hogs behind some nearby scrub rooting in the ground.

Here Comes The Stalker

With high hopes and excitement, he approaches the hogs steadily and quietly till he is at the perfect range to get a shot. Luckily, the breeze was blowing heavily in his direction. He raises his rifle, but one of the massive hairy pigs sights him. He quickly takes a shot and hits the pig in its left shoulder.

The hog takes off through the thick bush with a loud squeal and blood dripping from its wound. Unfortunately, it is now too dark to track the pig without night equipment which the hunter did not bring. So now there is a wounded hog in the bush (a dangerous scenario) and no way to track it.

Lessons From the Escapade

What did this hunter do right? It was summer, so he went hunting for hogs during a cooler part of the day when the pigs were more active. He also knew that wallows are places where pigs hang out.  He was also downwind from the hogs (but this seems to have been by luck).

What did he do wrong? He probably shot too quickly and only wounded the animal, or possibly his rifle wasn’t the proper one for hog hunting. He also lacked proper night-tracking equipment, such as a powerful LED headlamp and a blood tracker flashlight. A rifle like the .35 Remington is excellent for short ranges and has the power to drop medium-sized game (which would have removed the need to track an injured animal).

Before You Go

When hunting, always know how to identify and stalk your prey. Depending on the circumstances, have the right weapon for the game you’re hunting and carry any additional equipment to assist your hunt. Plus, keep in mind the number one rule of hunting: Safety First.

Gum Log Plantation

Are you interested in hunting but don’t know where to start? Then, Gum Log Plantation is the place for you. Our premier hunting lodge in GA, set on 2000 acres of prime hunting grounds, has a team of experienced guides to take you on a first-class hunting excursion. You can go solo or bring a group of friends. We’re booking fall and winter outings now. Call 229-318-9015 and book yours today.

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Why Winter is a Great Time for Hog Hunting

Wild hogs can be a significant problem for landowners and even hunters. This invasive animal species rips through crops and eats up any food used to lure other wild game. Luckily, these animals can be tracked and hunted without too much trouble because it’s easy to spot where they are due to this damage.

The hog populations have exploded in the warmer southern states. Because of the destruction they cause, there are not a ton of restrictions surrounding hog hunting. Most states allow hog hunting year-round, but there are different regulations regarding private vs. public land and night hunting (when hogs are on the move and feeding). Before hog hunting in GA, check local laws.

Hog Hunting GA: Winter Hunting Tips

Hogs are just fun to hunt in general, and they have a lot of meat on them, making them good for filling a freezer. Still, when is the best time to hunt a hog? Many hunters think that summer and spring are the best times to hunt hogs, but this is not true.

You are better off hunting hogs during the cold winter months. Since there is no specific hog hunting season in most places, you could hunt hogs all year, but it is much easier to pursue these intelligent animals during the winter. First, we’ll talk about why winter is the ideal time to hunt hogs.

The Benefits of Winter Hog Hunting

Hogs need to eat, and they are highly motivated by food. During warmer months, hogs have to search widely for food sources. Their “home range” can vary from a few hundred acres to several thousand acres depending on food availability. So, they are constantly moving around and looking for moist and swampy areas to scavenge veggies and other types of sustenance.

However, in winter, things change. Food sources are limited, and the hog won’t quickly move from food source to food source. In other words, they will stick to restricted areas where food can be found. In addition, in summer and spring, hogs sleep in during daylight and forage at night. In the winter, they move during the day when it is cold, making them easier to track and hunt.

Gum Lodge Plantation

If you are interested in hog hunting in GA, contact Gum Lodge Plantation. Our lodge sits on over 3000 acres of land for hunting, and we provide affordable guided hunting packages. You can hunt hogs in the winter by booking a solo or group hunt with an expert guide. Contact us at 229-318-9015 – we look forward to hearing from you.

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Clean Kills: Where To Shoot a Wild Hog

When hunting hogs or any animal, the hunter’s goal is to drop the animal quickly. A clean kill prevents the hunter from tracking an injured and possibly dangerous animal overland and is more humane for the animal to be killed instantly. Following a few hog hunting tips can guarantee a clean kill.

Hog Hunting Tips: a Clean Kill

Wild hog hunting involves a lot of action. So whether using a rifle, handgun, or bow, always remain calm when using your weapon. Many new hunters get caught up in the excitement of seeing their target animal and shoot too quickly, often missing their target. A patient, controlled shot has a higher success rate.

Head Or Neck?

Ideally, aiming for the shoulder and vital organs of the wild hog will usually kill the hog on the spot. However, if the hog is not killed, hitting it in the shoulder will prevent the hog from fleeing. In addition, a disabled hog allows the hunter a quick follow-up shot (if need be) for a fast, clean, and ethical kill.

Another primary kill location is the neck. Not only is it a perfect kill shot, but it’ll also put the hog down on the spot by dissociating the spine.

Shooting straight at an animal’s brain would kill it, but a wild hog doesn’t have a big brain, which is not easily hit. Besides, these tiny brains are protected by a thick skull, hair, and hide. As a result, headshots don’t always take down the animal, and an injured hog could get up and charge a hunter as they are approaching it. Also, many hunters don’t do headshots because they mess up any chance of a wall trophy.

Correct Ammunition

To be a successful hunter, you must use a bullet that’s powerful enough to get the job done. Hogs have thick hair and hide, and the ammunition used must be able to penetrate that easily. Remember, the goal is a quick, clean kill—research which ammunition is best before heading out into the field. If bow hunting, the same advice applies. Select the proper arrow/broadhead that will be most effective for hogs.

Gum Log Plantation

Do you need some hog hunting tips? The guides at Gum Log Plantation are ready to share. We are Georgia hog hunting experts and will always use the right weapon and ammunition for the job. We have led hundreds of successful hog hunts and are waiting to hear from you. Contact us today and schedule your hunt today. Call 229-318-9015.

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