DUCKS

Early October to early January. The state is divided into specific regions, with many regions closing in December.

Refer to the Hunting Handbook for specific season dates. (GFP)


South Dakota’s prairie pothole country, located in the heart of the Central Flyway, consistently leads the nation in duck production. More than 15 million ducks migrate annually through South Dakota. They include mallards, gadwall, pintails and teal. Ducks can be found and hunted statewide, with varying numbers of birds depending on the fall migration. In the northeastern half of the state, numerous potholes, marshes and lakes, many state or federally owned, provide ideal early season hunting areas. Along the Missouri River, the migration peaks in mid November with 600,000 ducks, primarily mallards. Western reaches of the state also hold ducks on stock dams, rivers and small lakes.

More information on duck hunting. (GFP)
More information on waterfowl hunting. (GFP)
 

GEESE

Central areas, early October to early January.
Remainder of state, early October to late December.

In recent years, there has been a spring light goose conservation hunt. Dates vary depending on federal framework.

Geese can be found and hunted statewide. Western and eastern reaches of the state harbor locally produced giant Canada geese. The Missouri River corridor is the main route for more than 400,000 migrating Canada geese, and eastern South Dakota attracts 350,000 snow- and blue-geese migrants. Areas in and around Sand Lake Wildlife Refuge near Aberdeen hold large concentrations of snow and blue geese. Marshes in northeastern South Dakota usually freeze over by mid-November, pushing waterfowl further South. Bonus species on waterfowl hunts include sandhill crane and tundra swan. Each require special licensing to hunt.

More information on fall goose hunting. (GFP)
More information on spring light goose hunting. (GFP)
More information on waterfowl hunting. (GFP)