Are Michigan hunters allowed to kill feral pigs?

Hunting and fishing regulations can be confusing. After all, it might seem counterintuitive to you that you can’t simply hunt and fish for whatever you want on your own land. But the ramifications for a hunting or fishing violation can be significant. Depending on the circumstances, you could end up facing hundreds, if not thousands, of dollars in fines and even jail time if you’re found to have violating hunting or fishing regulations, not to mention your hunting rights.

What about feral pigs?

Fortunately, if you have a valid hunting license, you can legally hunt feral pigs. In fact, you’d be doing the state a favor by doing so. These wild swine create a whole host of problems, including carrying diseases that can easily be transmitted to domesticated hogs. This, in turn, can lead to swine deaths, a decrease in pork supplies, and a corresponding increase in pork prices. This disease transmission has also affected Michigan farmers, as they’ve seen their soybean exports plummet due to fewer domesticated pigs needing fed.

Feral pigs can be found throughout much of Michigan. In fact, experts indicate that the swine have been discovered in 70 of our 83 counties. While many pig farmers have modified the way that they raise their hogs, moving most of them indoors to limit contact with feral pigs, the truth is that more needs to be done to control the feral pig population. That’s where hunters like you can help.

Know how to navigate your hunting and fishing concerns

Deciphering the regulations pertaining to hunting and fishing can be confusing. But there’s a lot at stake. That’s’ why we encourage you to research these matters so that you can avoid getting into trouble with state officials. If you have additional questions about your specific set of circumstances, then please continue to read our blog and the rest of our website.