Airboat, Dog or Still: Choosing the Right Team for Ground Hog Control

Ground hog hunting in Acadiana is more than a sport; it protects farms, wildlife habitats and community food supplies. With feral hogs causing about 76 million dollars of agricultural damage in Louisiana each year, every successful hunt helps keep that toll down while providing meat for food kitchens and veterans. For those who take a veteran along, the day out in the field can also be a healing experience, a reminder that every life matters in a country where about 23 veterans a day are lost to suicide.

If your property includes water channels, marshes or low-lying fields, an airboat may be the most efficient choice. An airboat crew typically consists of a skilled driver who knows the waterways and a veteran or volunteer who can handle the gun safely while the boat moves. The open deck gives a clear view, and the speed helps locate hogs before they scatter. Safety briefings and clear communication are essential, especially when working with a veteran who may be new to the equipment.

Dog hunting brings a different energy to the field. A well‑trained bay dog can cover dense brush and locate hogs that are hidden from sight. The team usually includes the dog handler, a veteran or volunteer who assists with the dog and keeps the firearm ready, and sometimes a second observer for safety. Training the dog and the handlers together builds trust, and the teamwork can be especially rewarding for veterans who enjoy the camaraderie of a close‑knit group.

Still hunting is the quietest method, relying on patience and knowledge of hog movement patterns. A small team-often just a veteran and a volunteer-sets up a blind near a known hog trail and waits for the animals to pass. This approach works well on smaller parcels or where noise would disturb nearby neighbors. Choosing still hunting means matching your comfort with long periods of stillness and ensuring you have a reliable spot to stay concealed.

No matter which method you choose, the key is to align the terrain, your crew’s experience and the goals of the hunt. By pairing the right team with the right technique, you protect your land, support veteran well‑being and help feed those in need.