Why the Feral Hog Tournament Feeds More Than Just the Table

Every fall, hunters across Acadiana gather for Troops & Tusks' feral hog tournament. Teams bring a veteran along, hunt on their own land, and weigh each hog before it is skinned. The meat is then distributed to food kitchens, families facing hardship, and the veterans who helped make the day possible.

Feral hogs are a relentless problem in Louisiana, causing about 76 million dollars of agricultural damage each year. By targeting these invasive animals, the tournament provides a practical way to protect crops and pasture while turning a nuisance into a resource.

The event also addresses a deeper need. Roughly 23 veterans a day are lost to suicide in this country, and many veterans find purpose and camaraderie in the outdoors. Sharing the hunt with a veteran, offering a day of focused activity, and providing a portion of the harvest for their own families creates a tangible support network.

Volunteers, hunters, and community members can help by donating time, equipment, or transportation for veterans. Whether you bring a friend, assist with processing the hogs, or help deliver the meat to local kitchens, each contribution strengthens the circle of giving that the tournament has built.