Javelina’s hunting in Kentucky can be a challenging but rewarding experience. These animals are not native to the state, but they have been introduced and are now considered invasive species. If you’re thinking about going javelina hunting in Kentucky, there are a few things you should know first. In this blog post, we will cover the basics of javelina hunting, including what equipment you will need and where to find these animals.
Javelina Hunting Laws in Kentucky
The javelina, or collared peccary, is a wild pig-like creature that is found in the southwestern United States and parts of Mexico. In Kentucky, javelina hunting is regulated by the state’s Department of Fish and Wildlife Resources.
Javelina may be hunted during specific times of the year and only with certain types of weapons. Hunters must possess a valid hunting license and must adhere to all other state hunting laws and regulations.
During the javelina hunting season, hunters are allowed to take two javelinas per day. The bag limit for a single hunter is four javelinas total for the entire season. Javelinas may be taken with firearms, bows, or crossbows; however, only certain types of ammunition may be used.
Javelina hunting is not allowed on Sundays. All hunted animals must be checked in with a game warden within five days of being killed. The carcass must remain whole until it is presented to the game warden.
If you are planning on hunting javelina in Kentucky, it is important that you familiarize yourself with the state’s laws and regulations. By doing so, you can help ensure a safe and successful hunt for everyone involved.
Related: Alligator Hunting in Kentucky
Do you need a license to hunt Javelina in Kentucky?
In Kentucky, you do not need a license to hunt javelina. Javelinas are not classified as game animals in Kentucky. However, there are some regulations that you must follow when hunting javelina. For example, you may not use dogs to hunt javelina and you may only shoot javelina with a shotgun or air rifle. You also may not possess more than two javelinas at one time.
Javelina Hunting Seasons in Kentucky
In Kentucky, the javelina hunting season typically falls between mid-August and early February. Although javelinas can be found throughout the state, the majority of them are concentrated in the southeastern and southwestern regions.
During the hunting season, javelinas can be taken with either a shotgun or a rifle. The use of dogs is also allowed, but only for tracking and not for actual hunting. Javelinas can be hunted during both the day and night, but most hunters prefer to hunt them at night due to their nocturnal habits.
When hunting javelinas, it is important to be aware of their aggressive nature. They are known to attack humans and animals that they perceive as threats, so it is important to approach them with caution. If you do encounter javelina while hunting, make sure to keep your distance and do not attempt to shoot it unless you are absolutely certain that you can make a clean kill.
Can you hunt Javelina at night in Kentucky?
In Kentucky, javelina may be hunted at night with a spotlight or other artificial light only while the hunter is in a vehicle. While it is legal to shoot a javelina from a moving vehicle, it is not recommended as it greatly reduces the chance of a successful harvest.
Bag limits for hunting Javelina in Kentucky
The bag limit for hunting Javelina in Kentucky is two per day. However, only one of these may be taken from each of the following areas: Boone, Kenton, Campbell, and Pendleton Counties. In addition, only one Javelina may be taken from each of the following areas: Harrison, Spencer, and Breckinridge Counties.
Legal ways to hunt Javelina in Kentucky
In Kentucky, javelina may be hunted with firearms during the fall and winter hunting seasons. A valid hunting license is required for all hunters, regardless of age. There are four ways to hunt javelina in Kentucky:
- With a shotgun using slugs only;
- With a muzzleloader that uses black powder or Pyrodex only;
- With a bow and arrow; or
- With a crossbow.
Javelina may not be hunted with dogs, and baiting is prohibited. Javelina may be taken as incidental take while lawfully hunting deer during the deer firearms season. The use of lights to take javelina is prohibited.
Can you use dogs to hunt Javelina in Kentucky?
Dogs can be used to hunt Javelina in Kentucky, but there are a few things you should keep in mind. First, Javelina is very intelligent and has a keen sense of smell, so your dog will need to be well-trained in order to be successful. Secondly, Javelina is very fast and agile, so your dog will need to be in good shape. Finally, because Javelina is often found in groups, it is important to have more than one dog so that they can flush them out and keep them from regrouping.
Can you hunt Javelina from a vehicle in Kentucky?
In Kentucky, you can only hunt javelina from a vehicle if you are physically disabled and have a permit to do so. If you are not physically disabled, you must be accompanied by a licensed driver and chase the animal on foot.
Final Thoughts
As I reflect on my first javelina hunting experience in Kentucky, I can’t help but feel proud of what we accomplished. We not only met our goal of harvesting javelina, but we did so while learning valuable lessons about the species and honing our skills as hunters.
There’s something special about hunting an animal that is relatively new to you. It’s a challenge that forces you to step out of your comfort zone and learn new things. And, in the process, you often find yourself becoming a better hunter overall.
I’m already looking forward to next year’s javelina season. I know that with each hunt, I’ll gain a greater understanding of these fascinating animals and continue to sharpen my skills as a hunter.
