Resembling the domestic pig, Russian boars are stocky, medium-sized, with hooves, coarse bristles and pointed head, according to Texas Boars. While the weight of the average sow is 110 pounds, a boar's average weight is slightly higher at 130 pounds. Hunters have captured boars that reach 6 feet long and 3 feet tall and weigh as much as 500 pounds. Although the wild boar's color can range from blond to red, the most common color is black. A mature boar grows a ragged mane with rigid bristles.
Oklahoma requires a license to hunt wild boars. Some types of hunting culminate in the live capture and transport of the boars. In these cases, Oklahoma requires blood tests for brucellosis on all boars that are at least 6 months of age and only if the owners have changed. Recent modifications in Oklahoma law include the removal of wild boars from the category of domestic animals as well as the prohibition of discharging boars into the wild, reports The Noble Foundation.
The hunting of wild boar is becoming a preferred sport. Owners of hog-infested grounds can make on average $200 per captured hog, and as much as $1,500 for a trophy hog hunt. Methods of hunting wild boar include still hunting (moving continuously through terrain), stand hunting (waiting from an elevated or concealed position) and hunting with dogs. In Oklahoma and Texas, special licenses are usually required for aerial hunting and trapping, as put forth by The Noble Foundation. Because of the constant movement of wild boar, still hunting might be the most effective.
According to the Boar Hunting Society, the selection of a rifle is contingent on the hunting area as well as the expected shooting range. Shooting at close range in thick brush requires a .44 Magnum or .30 caliber Winchester. The large calibers and rapid shots of Chapeus rifles also make them powerful at close range.
The use of dogs in wild hog hunts is new trend observed in Oklahoma and parts of north Texas. Hunters use the dogs to not only track but also catch hogs. In order to keep up with the dogs, hunters typically ride horses or mules, reports The Noble Foundation.