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).

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.

Do you want to share your hunting memories, including photos and videos, or see what others thought about their South Dakota hunting experience? Take a look at our Sportsmen Community and read what others are saying, add your own stories and don't forget to include a photo or two.

More hunting information:

For more information about outdoor activities and tips on hunting in South Dakota , visit South Dakota Office of Tourism Outdoor representative, Buddy Seiner's personal blog at http://sdoutdoors.wordpress.com. *

*Link disclaimer: By linking to this private blog, the Office of Tourism does not endorse nor verify the content it contains. The views and opinions expressed are solely those of the author.