Hog Hunts in Orlando, Florida: No License Needed?

Looking for thrilling hog hunts in Orlando, Florida, but worried about navigating complex state licensing rules? You aren't alone. With Florida's feral pig population exploding past 500,000, the state has made it easier than ever for visitors to help manage the problem. Here is how you can book a hunt without spending a dime on a state permit.

When you book a private land hunt, the red tape disappears. This guide explains exactly why Orlando is the premier destination for this adrenaline-pumping activity, what you need to bring, and how Switchgrass Outfitters makes the experience safe and successful.

How Big is Florida's Feral Hog Problem?

Florida is home to over 500,000 feral hogs, ranking second only to Texas in population size. These invasive animals cause millions in agricultural damage annually across Central Florida. Because they reproduce so quickly (sows can have two litters a year), hunting is the primary method of population control used by the state [1].

In our years operating in Central Florida, we've seen these animals wreak havoc on local ecosystems. They root up pastures, destroy orange groves, and outcompete native wildlife like deer and turkeys for food.

Feral hogs are not native to Florida. They were introduced by Spanish explorers hundreds of years ago, and today, they are found in all 67 counties. The damage they cause isn't just agricultural; their rooting behavior destroys the banks of rivers and streams, degrading water quality. By participating in a hunt, you're actually helping the local environment recover.

Do You Need a License for Hog Hunts in Orlando?

You don't need a hunting license to hunt wild hogs on private property with landowner permission in Florida. This applies to both residents and non-residents, making it incredibly accessible for tourists visiting Orlando. However, if you plan to hunt on public lands like Wildlife Management Areas (WMAs), a license is still required.

This "no license needed" rule is specific to private land because the state classifies feral hogs as domestic livestock on private property. This means there are no bag limits, no size limits, and no closed season. You can hunt them year-round, day or night.

However, hunting ethics still apply. At Switchgrass Outfitters, we believe in fair chase and responsible harvesting. We ensure that every animal is treated with respect and that the meat is utilized whenever possible.

Comparing Private vs. Public Land Hunting

While public land hunts are an option, they come with restrictions. On public land, you must follow specific seasons, use specific weapons during those seasons, and carry a valid license and management area permit.

On our private ranches, you have the freedom to hunt with the equipment that works best—including thermal scopes and AR-platform rifles—without worrying about seasonal closures.

Why Choose Orlando for Your Hunting Trip?

Orlando offers the perfect mix of accessible travel hubs and prime wilderness, with hunting grounds often just 45 minutes from the theme parks. You can land at MCO (Orlando International Airport) and be in the woods near Lake Jesup or the St. Johns River basin the same afternoon. It's the ultimate "cast and blast" or standalone adventure.

Many of our clients are families or groups already in town for Disney or Universal. They want a break from the crowds and lines. Escaping to the Florida brush offers a completely different side of the state.

Proximity to Prime Habitat

The area surrounding Orlando is rich with wetlands, cattle ranches, and dense palmetto thickets—exactly the terrain hogs love. Areas near Lake Jesup and the St. Johns River are legendary for their high hog density. When you hunt with us, you aren't driving hours into the middle of nowhere; you're hunting right on the edge of wild Florida, just a short drive from International Drive or Downtown Orlando.

What Does the Switchgrass Outfitters Experience Look Like?

Switchgrass Outfitters provides a fully guided experience that includes thermal optics, AR-platform rifles, and unlimited ammunition. Our packages cover transportation around the ranch, skinning, and quartering of your harvest. We handle the logistics so you can focus entirely on the hunt and the safety of your group.

When you arrive, you won't be handed a map and told "good luck." Our guides are with you every step of the way.

Link: View our gallery here.

Expert Guides and Safety

Safety is our top priority. Before we even load the rifles, we go through a comprehensive safety briefing. Our guides are experienced outdoorsmen who know the land and the animals. They know how to get you close to the sounder (a group of hogs) safely.

In our experience guiding hundreds of hunts, we know that thermal hunting at night changes the game. It allows us to spot animals from hundreds of yards away without alerting them. This technology drastically increases your chances of success.

A Real Success Story

We recently guided a father and son from the UK who had never hunted before. They were nervous about the equipment and the darkness. Within two hours, our guide put them on a group of hogs rooting near a feeder. With calm instruction, the son made a perfect shot on a 150-pound boar. The smile on his face was worth more than any trophy. That's the kind of memory we aim to create.

How Physically Demanding is a Hog Hunt?

Most hog hunts in Orlando require a low-to-moderate level of physical fitness, as we often use buggies or blinds to spot game. You won't need to hike ten miles, but you should be comfortable walking on uneven terrain for short distances. We tailor the pace to fit your group's abilities and needs.

If you have mobility concerns, let us know when you book. We can arrange hunts that rely more on blinds or vehicles to ensure you still get a great shot without the strenuous trek.

Clothing and Gear Recommendations

You don't need to buy a whole new wardrobe, but you should dress for the environment.

Clothing: Wear dark or camouflage clothing. Long pants and long sleeves are a must to protect against mosquitoes and saw palmettos.
Footwear: Sturdy, closed-toe boots are essential. It can get muddy, especially in the summer. snake boots are a great idea if you have them.
Bug Spray: This is Florida. The mosquitoes can be aggressive, especially near water.
Camera: You'll want to document your harvest!

We provide the guns, ammo, and thermal scopes. You just bring yourself and a sense of adventure.

What Does a Hog Hunt Cost?

A professionally guided thermal hog hunt typically costs between $375 and $550 per person per night depending on the package duration. At Switchgrass Outfitters, our standard thermal hunt is $375 per hunter, which includes your guide, equipment, and meat processing. There are no hidden trophy fees or size limits.

We believe in transparent pricing. We don't want you to worry about counting inches of tusk or weighing the animal before you pull the trigger.

What is Included?

Professional Guide: An expert to navigate and call shots.
Firearms & Thermal Optics: High-end AR-15s with thermal scopes.
Unlimited Ammo: We don't charge per bullet.
Meat Care: We skin and quarter your hog for you to take home.
Transportation: Buggy or truck rides on the ranch.

Available Add-Ons

If you want to preserve the memory of your hunt, we can connect you with local taxidermy services. Whether you want a European skull mount or a full shoulder mount, we can help arrange the details.

When is the Best Time to Hunt?

You can hunt hogs 365 days a year in Florida. However, behavior changes with the weather.

Cooler Months (Nov-March): Hogs are active for longer periods. It's more comfortable for hunters.
Summer Months (June-Sept): Hogs move late at night to escape the heat. Thermal hunting is particularly effective during this time.

Because we hunt at night with thermal gear, the summer heat is less of an issue than it would be for a daytime deer hunt.

Booking Your Adventure

Don't wait until you land in Orlando to book your trip. Our calendar fills up quickly, especially during the cooler months and holidays. Whether you are a solo hunter or a corporate group, we can accommodate you.

To secure your spot with Switchgrass Outfitters:

Call us: (321) 900-2494
Visit: https://www.switchgrassoutfitters.com/

We require a deposit to hold your date. Once you book, we'll send you a detailed itinerary and directions to the ranch.

Ready for Your Florida Adventure?

Hog hunting in Orlando, Florida with Switchgrass Outfitters offers a unique adrenaline rush that you can't find in a theme park. With no license required on our private land, expert guides, and top-tier thermal equipment, we make it easy for you to step into the wild.

You help the environment, you fill your freezer, and you make memories that last a lifetime.

Contact Switchgrass Outfitters Today to Book Your Hunt.

References:

[1] University of Florida/IFAS. "Wild Hogs in Florida: Ecology and Management."
https://journals.flvc.org/edis/article/view/118432