Javelina hunting at TheRanch@Camp Ka Hui 'Ana

Texas Trophy Javelina Hunting: A South Texas Treasure

Misconceptions vs. Reality

Javelinas—also known as collared peccaries or “skunk pigs”—are one of the most overlooked big game animals in North America. Especially in South Texas, they’re often misunderstood and mistakenly compared to destructive feral hogs. But in reality, javelinas are native species with ecological value, rich hunting tradition, and trophy-worthy status.

Around a campfire at any exclusive hunting ranch, javelinas might be the butt of jokes—about fleas, smell, or meat toughness. But much of that reputation is undeserved. The confusion often comes from their resemblance to feral hogs, an invasive species notorious for damaging ecosystems and crops. In contrast, javelinas are native to the Americas and play a beneficial role in South Texas wildlife, feeding primarily on prickly pear cactus and other native flora.

Javelina hunting at TheRanch@Camp Ka Hui 'Ana
Table Fare: A Surprising Delight

Javelina meat carries a stigma, but that’s largely due to poor preparation or choice of cuts. Many go straight for the backstrap, only to find it too lean and easy to overcook. But the hams? Those tell a different story. With more fat and better texture, the rear quarters of a javelina can be smoked, slow-cooked, or even turned into flavorful sausages—German bratwurst, spicy chorizo, or Cajun andouille. Cooked low and slow with the right seasoning, javelina rivals any store-bought pork in flavor.

Javelina hunting at TheRanch@Camp Ka Hui 'Ana

A New Chapter in Trophy Hunting

Trophy hunters are taking notice. The Boone & Crockett Club recently voted to include javelina as a recognized big game animal. This elevates the species for those chasing record books and species slams. For hunters working toward the North American Grand Slam, javelina may soon become the 30th recognized species—a major milestone.

While Arizona and New Mexico offer limited populations, La Salle County in South Texas is javelina country, offering unmatched access and abundance.

Why TheRanch at Camp Ka Hui ‘Ana?

At TheRanch at Camp Ka Hui ‘Ana, we sit deep in South Texas brush country—prime habitat for thriving javelina squadrons. Our land has been carefully managed for decades, supporting not just trophy whitetail hunting but also year-round javelina hunts.

With legal bag limits of two javelinas per licensed hunter annually—and no closed season in La Salle County—TheRanch offers a rare opportunity to hunt big game even during the traditional off-season.

If you’re looking for a new challenge, a meaningful trophy, and a true taste of South Texas wildlife, you’ll find it here.

Footnotes
  1. Taylor R, Synatzske DR. 2008. The Javelina in Texas. Texas Parks and Wildlife Department. Accessed June 2025.
  2. Texas Parks and Wildlife Department. 2025–2026 Hunting Season Dates. TPWD Hunting Guide. Accessed July 2025.
Bibliography
  • Taylor R, Synatzske DR. *The Javelina in Texas*. TPWD. 2008.
  • Texas Parks and Wildlife Department. *2025–2026 Hunting Seasons*. TPWD. 2025.

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