South Dakota Pheasant Hunting

The Greatest Thrill

It's the cackle of a rooster. The rush of the flush. The tailgate talks at the end of the field and the stories at the end of the day. A hunt in the world's greatest pheasant country is a thrill like no other.

See how easy it is to experience it for yourself.

HUNT IN SD

This year alone, hunters from across the state are reporting excellent bird numbers, with many commenting how numbers are up from previous years! We have the most birds in the country, but the fun goes beyond the field — no place caters to hunters like South Dakota.

“The people here are really special. That’s what makes the hunt. I have repeat hunters who say they’ve never met a rude person in South Dakota. Then, of course, we have the habitat. So it’s the people and the birds that really make our state special.”

Steve Halverson, owner of Halverson Hunts

“I love South Dakota pheasant hunting because it’s one of the most adrenaline rushing hunts you can go on. There’s the excitement of birds getting up right to you – and there’s the chance to make memories with your favorite people. I love it.”

Grace Sargent, pheasant hunter

Older male pheasant hunter walking in field with riffle

“I love spending time with my kids outdoors. And pheasant hunting is a great way to do it. They can take a shot and miss, and that's okay, but the fun part is putting them in a position where they can be successful.”

Doug Sargent, pheasant hunter

“For me it's really getting out into the field. It's the sun bathing over the landscape and the way the adrenaline hits you when a bird flushes. It's all of those experiences in the field for me, that really make me love it.”

Erica Yost, Pheasants Forever

What Makes South Dakota the Greatest?

The habitat and hospitality. A healthy mix of cropland and prairie creates the ideal pheasant habitat. The proof is in the results: more than 1 million roosters have been harvested in 17 of the past 20 years!

An updated GF&P system means it’s time to set up a new account! Whether you’re buying your first license or your 40^th, it’s easy to set up your new account before you buy your license. Don’t let anything get between you and the field this year. Set up your new account by clicking here.

The birds are plentiful. Hunting conditions continue to improve as crop harvest continues, and there is an abundance of smiles in the field. Visit South Dakota and you’ll be in the for most thrilling and unforgettable bird hunts of your life. Get your ticket to outdoor adventures with a South Dakota small game license.

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The Power of Pheasant Hunting in South Dakota — Hunt the Greatest

Hunt the Greatest and Scheels Giveaway

You and three of your favorite people can win the hunting trip of a lifetime, plus a bunch of great gear. If selected, your hunting party will get free SCHEELS apparel and a 2023 guided pheasant hunt at a world-class South Dakota pheasant hunting lodge!

Enter Now

Tailgate Talks

Everyone hunts for a different reason. The habitat, the company, the rush of the flush – it’s all part of the great South Dakota experience.

Featured Sportswomen Resources

Find helpful tips for hunting around South Dakota – and stories from the women who have been there and done that.

Women in the Field

2022 UPLAND OUTLOOK

“Spring and summer rains have brought a reprieve from the 2021 drought, which is great news for both habitat conditions and upland game bird production. Hunters can expect to find more lush grasslands and plenty of birds to enjoy this season.”

- Kevin Robling, GFP Secretary

Read the Report