In February 2015, Erik, his father Charlie, and a group of friends returned to Moore Haven, Florida, for another hog hunting trip with Chappy’s Outfitters. Located near the southern edge of Lake Okeechobee, the Moore Haven area is well known among hunters for its large populations of feral hogs and for its diverse Florida terrain, ranging from open trails and pasture edges to dense palmetto and brush.
The group arrived with the goal most hog hunters share: to spend time outdoors with friends and, hopefully, bring home some wild pork. Florida hog hunts are often unpredictable, and success depends on patience, good equipment, and a little luck. Fortunately, this trip delivered on all fronts.
Feral hogs are considered an invasive species throughout Florida, and their populations are managed primarily through hunting. Because of this, hog hunting opportunities are available year-round on many private properties. Areas around Moore Haven are particularly productive because the mixture of wetlands, oak hammocks, and agricultural land creates ideal feeding and bedding environments for wild hogs.
February can actually be an excellent time to hunt in South Florida. Cooler winter temperatures make daytime hunting more comfortable, and hogs tend to move more actively when conditions are mild. Early mornings and late afternoons often produce the best opportunities, especially near trails, feeding areas, and water sources.
During this outing, the group worked on several areas of the property and encountered multiple hogs throughout the day. As the photo gallery shows, the hunt proved successful, with several animals harvested and plenty of stories to share by the end of the trip.
Trips like these are about more than just the harvest. They are an opportunity to spend time outdoors, practice safe and responsible firearm handling, and enjoy the camaraderie of a good hunting camp.
The images from this hunt capture some of those moments—from the excitement of the chase to the satisfaction of a successful day in the field.
Hog Hunting in Moore Haven, Florida
Why is Moore Haven a good location for hog hunting?
Moore Haven sits along the southern region of Lake Okeechobee, an area that provides ideal habitat for feral hogs. The combination of wetlands, agricultural land, oak hammocks, and thick brush provides hogs with abundant food and cover, helping maintain strong populations throughout the region.
When is the best time of year to hunt hogs in Florida?
Unlike many game species, feral hogs can be hunted year-round on private land in Florida. Winter months, such as January and February, are often particularly comfortable for hunters because of cooler temperatures and increased daytime animal movement.
What should hunters expect during a Florida hog hunt?
Florida hog hunts can involve walking trails, stalking through brush, or hunting from stands, depending on the property. Hunters should be prepared for warm weather, dense vegetation, and animals that can move quickly through thick cover.
Why are feral hogs hunted in Florida?
Feral hogs are not native to Florida and cause significant damage to farmland, natural habitats, and native wildlife. Hunting helps control the population and reduce the environmental impact caused by these invasive animals.
