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Hunting in South Dakota

Hunting in South Dakota is more than just a hobby...it's a passion.

Year-round, you can enjoy world-class hunting on nearly five million acres of public land. The most popular time to hunt in South Dakota is in the fall, but late season hunting can also be very successful and enjoyable.

Pheasant hunting and other upland game, waterfowl hunting, small game and deer hunting seasons all open in the fall. During the winter months, late season deer and predator hunting are active. In the spring, hunters can participate in turkey and light goose seasons. In the off-season, prairie dog hunting and other varmint hunting are permitted on private land (with permission).

Rooster Rush 2010

We're gearing up for Rooster Rush 2010. Check our Rooster Rush page for information on special community events and promotions. We'll also be posting a link to the 2010 Pheasant Outlook as soon as it becomes available from the South Dakota Game, Fish and Parks Department. Pheasant season opens October 16, 2010 and runs through January 2, 2011.

Rules and Regulations

When planning your hunt, refer to the current Game, Fish and Parks Hunting Handbook (PDF) for rules, regulations and specific season dates. For information about and links to accommodations, guides, packages, applying for licenses online and much more, visit the general information and the license information and publications pages.

Big Game Hunting

Antelope	Bighorn Sheep	Bison	Deer
Elk	Mountain Goat	Mountain Lion	Turkey

Small Game Hunting

Pheasant	Grouse and Prairie Chicken	Partridge	Dove

Bonus Small Game Hunting

Rabbit and Squirrel	Ruffed Grouse	Quail

Varmint Hunting

Prairie Dog	Coyote	Fox

Waterfowl Hunting

Ducks	Geese

More Hunting Information

For more information about outdoor activities and tips on hunting in South Dakota , visit South Dakota Office of Tourism Outdoor Representative's blog at sdoutdoors.wordpress.com.