Home > Outdoor Activities > Hunting

South Dakota Hunting

From tracking the flight of a pheasant over an East River cornfield to stalking big game across the rugged West River plains and Black Hills, South Dakota truly offers hunters a land of infinite variety.

South Dakota hunting adventures can be as tame as taking aim at a prairie dog or as wild as tracking down a mountain lion. The state’s array of game animals also includes small game such as grouse, ducks, geese, fox, coyotes, and pheasants, and big game such as turkey, deer, antelope, elk, mountain goats and bighorn sheep.

In excess of 275,000 people – an amount that’s more than a third of the state’s population – obtain hunting licenses annually in South Dakota. It seems that whatever the time of year, there’s an animal to be hunted and an opportunity to hunt it.

Hunting South Dakota

Whatever your preferred game is there are plenty to choose from when it comes to hunting in the state. Whether you are hunting small game, big game or waterfowl you have plenty to choose from.

Pheasant Hunting

Pheasant Hunting in South Dakota has definitely became the state unofficial pastime.

Big Game Hunting

Deer, Antelope, Elk, Turkey, Mountain Lions and Big Horn Sheep

Small Game Hunting

Pheasant, Grouse, Quail, Partridge, Mourning Dove, Rabbits, Crow and more

Waterfowl Hunting

Duck, Goose, Crane, Swan and more

Hunting Lodges and Guides

If you are coming from out of state one of the great places to stay for your hunt is at one of the many hunting lodges in the state. Not only will you have great accommodations, but you will also be provided with excellent hunting experiences. Most of the lodges are equipped with Guided Hunts should you choose to utilize the service. These guides are local hunters who knows the area so help eliminate the guesswork on where to find your game.

Learn more about Hunting Lodges

Hunting License

Of all the considerations and preparations when planning a hunting trip, licensing is sure to be one of the first concerns. South Dakota has an online purchasing option for general licenses, and some types of licenses can be purchased over the counter when you arrive in the state. In addition to information about licenses, the state of South Dakota has some outstanding hunting and fishing guides, offering explanations of rules and regulations, seasons, licensing, and other information.

Learn more about Hunting Licenses

Traveling Tips

Located in the center of the Midwest, South Dakota is easily accessible by both car and air. Traveling by car affords the opportunity to enjoy the expansive landscapes of the Mt. Rushmore state, while traveling by air will get your hunting trip started even more quickly. Both car and air options provide easy access to South Dakota's ample hunting grounds.

See some of the Traveling Tips