Expert: BBQ Woman - 9/13/2007

Question
I am having a pig roast for around 80 people. I have purchased a 250lb fully dressed pig from a local butcher and need some advice on how long it will take and the best way to smoke this thing whole. I have a huge smoker provided by a friend. Any suggestions?

Answer
Hi,
I need to ask a few questions before I can give you a good answer. When you mean 250 pound pig is that the live weight or? Will you keep the head on as you cook it? Is this a gas or charcoal smoker? Does it have a smoking chamber on the side? The reason I am asking about the size of the pig is that some butchers determine the size as live weight vs actual weight which can be really confusing. Most people get 2 -125 pound pigs because I have always been told larger pigs tend to be more gamey and the meat is stringy, although I have never consumed a larger pig to be certain of that. If you bought the pig already this is still workable and I can give you a good plan on how to cook it. I look forward to hearing from you again.
Regards,
Misty