The four-time DP World Tour champion made history last summer by becoming the event's first Danish winner.
He impressed again on his home course on opening morning, posting an eagle, five birdies and a bogey to finish six under.
Wet and windy conditions in the afternoon meant that none of the following runners came close to Hoijgaard’s clubhouse target, with Frederic LaCroix, Jannik de Bruyn and Sam Jones all close behind on four under.
“I think the support is pretty good for a Thursday morning,” Hoegaard said.
“I've been enjoying playing at home. I'm looking forward to coming home tonight, having a nice dinner and sleeping in my own bed.”
Scot Marc Warren hit a great shot on the par-3 seventh hole, holed a 50-degree wedge from 140 yards.
