Hunting in South Dakota
When the cornstalks turn brown, South Dakota turns orange. The October weekend that opens pheasant season is basically a holiday as visitors and residents take to the fields in a state known for being home to the nation’s best pheasant hunting.
Friendly hosts, private lodges and more than 1 million acres of publicly accessible hunting land within the primary pheasant range welcome residents and non-residents alike. And pheasant hunters aren’t the only ones who flock to this world-class hunting haven: South Dakota also offers opportunities to hunt big game, waterfowl, turkey and more.
To experience hunting in South Dakota is to find paradise in the middle of America. Come make some memories of your own this year. Come hunt in SD.
For many, a South Dakota hunting trip is a beautiful reunion. Friends and family travel from far-off distances to make their annual pilgrimage home. In the field, you’ll hear the sounds of laughter amid crunching stalks and happy dogs. You’ll see generations of experience guiding and teaching the young hunters in the party, showing them how to properly handle their weapons and aim just right in order to land their first bird. After a good day’s hunt, folks gather around tables across South Dakota to share food, stories and laughter.
Sure, some hunting stories get politely exaggerated every year. Some shots don’t always hit the target. But no matter what, everything combines to create a consistently magical gathering of old friends and new.
Share your South Dakota hunting, fishing, hiking and camping photos and videos. Show off your game or catch. Share your new favorite trail. Celebrate an outdoor evening’s view. If it’s worth shooting, it’s worth sharing.
More Resources
SD Game Fish & Parks Email
Stay informed on what's happening in South Dakota's great outdoors.
Free South Dakota Hunting Packet
Includes the Hunting & Trapping Handbook from Game, Fish & Parks, a South Dakota Vacation Guide and a State Highway Map.
Find Hunting Activities
