The California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW) is offering wild pig hunting opportunities in March and April at the Joice Island Unit of the Grizzly Island Wildlife Area in Solano County.

The 2019 Joice Island pig hunt drawings will be administered online exclusively. CDFW is accepting applications until 4 p.m. on Feb. 14.

The limited-entry, permit-only hunts help control a small population of wild pigs on the Joice Island Unit, a 2,150-acre wetland area consisting of thick cattails, tules, brush and standing water. Hunters may only use shotguns with nonlead slugs or archery equipment. Dogs and bicycles are not allowed.

Four hunters will be drawn for nine consecutive weekends for a total of 36 hunters. The first hunt weekend will be reserved for apprentice hunters holding junior licenses, age 12 to 17. There is no charge to apply.

Apprentice Hunt Weekend – Junior License Holders Age 12 to 17 May Apply: March 2-3.

General Hunt Weekends – Adults and Junior License Holders May Apply: March 9-10, March 16-17, March 23-24, March 30-31; April 6-7, April 13-14, April 20-21, April 27-28.

Permit holders may bring one non-hunting partner. Junior license holders receiving a permit must be accompanied by an adult 18 or older.

To apply for both the apprentice and general hunts, visit CDFW’s Apprentice Hunts webpage and either log in or create a new account. Navigate the drop-down menus and apply for the weekend of your choice. Permits with maps and additional information will be e-mailed to successful applicants.

CDFW reserves the right to cancel any of these hunts and close the area to all public users without prior notification due to unforeseen circumstances or emergencies.

For more information, contact CDFW at (707) 425-3828.