The Greatest Thrill

The best places to hunt can be based on an ideal landscape, which can vary throughout South Dakota. You will find different types of hunting experiences based on the locations you visit throughout the state. Redfield and the surrounding area will provide you the traditional South Dakota hunt with wide-open spaces. Head to the northeast if you are looking for more cattails and slough hunting. Or take in the rolling hills of the Missouri River around Mobridge, Pierre, Chamberlain and down into Platte, with many of these areas known for their numbers in bird count.

Depending on hunting experience and preference, either opportunity is available throughout the state. There are tremendous guides, along with all-inclusive preserves, to select from which will allow for the least amount of effort for your hunt. If you’re looking for a hunt that will come with some challenge, allowing the dogs to work just a bit more, there is public land opportunities to choose from as well.

Most bird populations at hunting lodges are supplemented by stocked birds and you’ll find a mixture of wild and pen-raised birds. Birds that are harvested off public land, such as GPAs, WPAs and WIAs, are going to be wild birds, unless adjacent to a preserve. Some may come from those lands.

Numerous factors can affect the season ahead, including the past year, winter severity, habitat environments, current weather conditions, etc. Yet, even in difficult winters, South Dakota landowners and South Dakota Game, Fish and Parks help provide quality habitat for an abundant wildlife population. To keep up-to-date on all the information pertaining to this year’s hunting outlook, sign up to receive emails from South Dakota Game, Fish and Parks.

There are a variety of outdoor adventures to enjoy when visiting South Dakota. Visit the state parks that offer wildlife viewing and hiking, along with different types of lodging from cabins to camping. Bring your rods for a blast and cast trip. With not only the Missouri River running throughout the state, but South Dakota also offers shore fishing, boating, fly fishing and more. Or visit some of South Dakota’s top attractions including Mount Rushmore, Badlands National Park and Custer State Park.

Purchase and view your license by creating an account by clicking here. You can also purchase your license at any Authorized License Agent across the state. Make sure to have your license available, whether physical or electronic copy, when you are in the field.