Comments on: Texas Exotics Hunt Wrap-Up

By: Phillip Loughlin

Phillip Loughlin — Tue, 07 Apr 2009 05:12:42 +0000

Chas, I’m not sure there’s such a thing as “optimum”. It depends on a number of factors, not the least of which is what the hogs have been eating.

It is true that a big, burly boar is probably going to be a little stinky, and may be tough as chewing on a board, but size alone isn’t really a good indicator. I’ve told many times how the largest hog I ever shot, a boar that should have gone in the neighborhood of 300lbs live, was one of the tastiest I’ve eaten. And the absolute rankest hog I ever ate was a little boar that weighed all of 78 lbs, dressed.

If you’re really looking for prime meat, conventional wisdom and most experts agree that a gilt (an unbred sow) of about 80 lbs will provide the best flavor and tenderness. I can’t really disagree with that… especially since the gilts are also the best pigs to kill if you’re trying to manage populations.

By: chascates

chascates — Tue, 07 Apr 2009 03:31:16 +0000

What would you say is the optimum size feral hog for good meat? I’ve heard that over a certain size and it’s not worth it. Thanks

By: dustyvarmint

dustyvarmint — Mon, 06 Apr 2009 18:26:38 +0000

That’s too bad on the food. Went to Fair Chase, Ltd down on the Rio Grande this year and the food there and in Carrizo was out of this world (and it made my belly stick out).

By: Phillip Loughlin

Phillip Loughlin — Mon, 06 Apr 2009 16:23:31 +0000

DV, you didn’t miss much on the Mexican food front… it wasn’t bad, but it sure wasn’t all it could’ve been!

Holly, I’ve got two freezers and they’re both real close to full. Fortunately, I’m gonna drop about 20 lbs of shoulder meat off to Hank, which should make room for my next hog.

As far as the bloodthirsty savage, well… he (or she) who hesitates is lost. For the most part, though, the truth is that he was just in the right place at the right time more than I was.

By: NorCal Cazadora

NorCal Cazadora — Mon, 06 Apr 2009 12:45:36 +0000

Man, that’s a lot of killing. How many freezers do you have?

Sounds like a great adventure. But if I’m ever in a hunting party with your brotherm remind me to hunt alone – you know me, I’m way slow at this point, and I’d never get a shot off.

By: dustyvarmint

dustyvarmint — Mon, 06 Apr 2009 12:15:50 +0000

Nice!

I don’t know what I’m more jealous about; Mexican food in a small Texas town or all those whacked and stacked critters.

happy hunting, dv

By: Phillip Loughlin

Phillip Loughlin — Sun, 05 Apr 2009 14:59:41 +0000

Thanks guys, it was a real kick! Little brother was definitely hot for blood all weekend, but I think I enjoyed his excitement as much as anything else. It just seemed like he was in the right spot at the right time every time.

Michael, the prices haven’t come down much yet, but according to Shane, business has definitely dropped off this year. I think outfitters all over the country are gonna feel a definite pinch this coming season.

By: T.Michael Riddle

T.Michael Riddle — Sun, 05 Apr 2009 14:14:52 +0000

Whew!
Had my heart racing while reading, Great story Phillip, those guys at JHO don’t know what they missed.

Has the economy driven down the prices for these hunts? Sounds like fun!

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Sun, 05 Apr 2009 03:56:18 +0000

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By: Albert A Rasch

Albert A Rasch — Sun, 05 Apr 2009 01:41:24 +0000

Well we missed you around these parts. Great time had by everyone, by all accounts! Lil' brothers though, what a pain. Sheesh! I've spent a little time in the Hill country and it is every bit as rough as you describe. But it's beautiful too. Great hunt and good times with family, what more can you ask for? Regards, Albert The Rasch Outdoor Chronicles The Range Reviews: Tactical Proud Member of Outdoor Bloggers Summit