South Dakota Hunting Guide 2025-2026 – Seasons, Permits & Public Hunting Lands
Whether you’re a seasoned South Dakota outdoorsman or planning your first adventure in the Mount Rushmore State, this comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about the 2025-2026 game calendar. From pheasant fields to deer stands, we’ll walk you through permit requirements, wildlife schedules, and the best areas to pursue your favorite quarry.
South Dakota offers some of the nation’s finest outdoor opportunities, with diverse landscapes ranging from rolling prairie to the Black Hills. The state’s robust wildlife populations and well-managed public access programs make it a premier destination for both residents and visiting sportsmen. Let’s dive into what this year’s regulations have in store.
📅 Quick Highlights
Here’s your at-a-glance overview of major species and their tentative dates for the upcoming year:
Big Game Highlights:
- Archery: September 1, 2025 – January 1, 2026
- West River Deer: November 15-30, 2025
- East River Deer: November 22 – December 7, 2025
- Black Hills Deer: November 1-30, 2025
Upland Birds:
- Youth Pheasant: September 27 – October 5, 2025
- Resident-Only Pheasant: October 11-13, 2025
- Traditional Pheasant: October 18, 2025 – January 31, 2026
- Grouse & Partridge: September 20, 2025 – January 31, 2026
Waterfowl Season:
- Youth Waterfowl: September 13-14, 2025
- Duck seasons vary by zone (September 27 – January 15)
- Canada Goose: Multiple units with varying dates
Big Game Overview
Deer Opportunities
South Dakota’s deer management program offers excellent opportunities across different regions, with specific tag allocations and weapon restrictions for each area.
| Season Type | Dates | Application Period | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Archery Statewide | Sep 1, 2025 – Jan 1, 2026 | Jun 10 – Jan 1, 2026 | Over-the-counter after Jun 10 |
| West River Firearms | Nov 15-30, 2025 | May 22 – Jun 17, 2025 | Limited draw |
| East River Firearms | Nov 22 – Dec 7, 2025 | May 22 – Jun 17, 2025 | Limited draw |
| Black Hills | Nov 1-30, 2025 | May 22 – Jun 17, 2025 | Limited draw |
| Custer State Park | Nov 1 – Dec 15, 2025 | May 22 – Jun 17, 2025 | Special application |
| Muzzleloader | Dec 1, 2025 – Jan 1, 2026 | May 22 – Jun 17, 2025 | Limited draw |
Antelope Adventures
The state’s antelope population provides quality opportunities, particularly in the western counties. Both archery and firearms options are available through limited draw systems.
| Season | Dates | Application Period |
|---|---|---|
| Archery | Aug 16 – Oct 31, 2025 | Jun 10 – Oct 31, 2025 |
| Firearms | Oct 4-19, 2025 | Jul 22 – Aug 12, 2025 |
| Special Buck | Oct 4-19, 2025 | Mar 19 – Apr 15, 2025 |
Elk Experiences
Limited elk permits are available in several units, offering once-in-a-lifetime opportunities for many hunters.
| Unit | Season Dates | Application Period |
|---|---|---|
| Black Hills Archery | Sep 1-30, 2025 | Apr 23 – May 20, 2025 |
| Black Hills Firearms | TBD (see application) | Apr 23 – May 20, 2025 |
| Custer State Park | Oct 1-31, 2025 | Apr 23 – May 20, 2025 |
| Prairie Units | TBD (see application) | Apr 23 – May 20, 2025 |
Turkey Dates
Spring and fall turkey opportunities abound across the state, with the Black Hills and prairie units offering distinct experiences.
Spring Gobbler Action
| Unit | Dates | Application Period | Bag Limit |
|---|---|---|---|
| Prairie Units | Apr 12 – May 31, 2025 | Jan 22 – Feb 12, 2025 | 1 male |
| Black Hills | Apr 26 – May 31, 2025 | Jan 22 – May 31, 2025 | 1 male |
| Custer State Park | Apr 26 – May 18, 2025 | Jan 22 – Feb 12, 2025 | 1 male |
| Archery Spring | Apr 12 – May 31, 2025 | Jan 22 – May 31, 2025 | 1 male |
Fall Turkey Opportunities
| Season Type | Dates | Application Period |
|---|---|---|
| Fall Prairie | Nov 1, 2025 – Jan 31, 2026 | Aug 19 – Sep 3, 2025 |
| Fall Mentored | Nov 1, 2025 – Jan 31, 2026 | Aug 19 – Jan 31, 2026 |
Furbearer Opportunities
South Dakota’s furbearer program runs year-round for many species, with specific regulations for different areas.
| Species | Season | License Required | Special Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Coyote | Year-round | Predator/Varmint or any hunting license | No license required Apr 1-Aug 31 for residents |
| Red/Gray Fox | Year-round | Predator/Varmint or any hunting license | No license required Apr 1-Aug 31 for residents |
| Bobcat | Dec 26, 2024 – Dec 25, 2025 | Furbearer License | Limited to 1 in Black Hills |
| Raccoon | Year-round | Furbearer License (trapping) | No license required Apr 1-Aug 31 for residents |
| Beaver | Year-round | Furbearer License | Prohibited in Black Hills Fire Protection District |
| River Otter | Year-round | Furbearer License | Residents only |
| Mink/Weasel | Year-round | Furbearer License |
Small Game Section
The prairie state’s small game offerings provide excellent action throughout the extended seasons.
| Species | Season Dates | Daily Bag Limit | Possession Limit |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cottontail Rabbit | Year-round | 10 | 30 |
| Tree Squirrel | Year-round | 6 | 18 |
| Mourning Dove | Sep 1 – Nov 9, 2025 | 15 | 45 |
| Grouse | Sep 20, 2025 – Jan 31, 2026 | 3 | 15 |
| Partridge | Sep 20, 2025 – Jan 31, 2026 | 3 | 15 |
| Bobwhite Quail | Oct 18, 2025 – Jan 31, 2026 | 5 | 15 |
| Snipe | Sep 1 – Oct 31, 2025 | 8 | 24 |
Pheasant – The State’s Crown Jewel
South Dakota’s world-renowned pheasant program offers multiple opportunity periods:
| Season Type | Dates | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Youth & Mentored Only | Sep 27 – Oct 5, 2025 | Great introduction opportunity |
| Resident Only | Oct 11-13, 2025 | Exclusive resident weekend |
| Traditional Season | Oct 18, 2025 – Jan 31, 2026 | Open to all licensed hunters |
Complete Waterfowl Seasons
South Dakota’s diverse wetland systems support excellent waterfowl populations across multiple zones.
Duck Seasons by Zone
| Zone | Dates | Daily Bag Limit | Special Regulations |
|---|---|---|---|
| High Plains | Oct 11, 2025 – Jan 15, 2026 | 6 ducks | Choose traditional or 3-duck limit option |
| Low Plains North | Sep 27 – Dec 9, 2025 | 6 ducks | |
| Low Plains Middle | Sep 27 – Dec 9, 2025 | 6 ducks | |
| Low Plains South | Oct 25, 2025 – Jan 6, 2026 | 6 ducks |
Goose Seasons
| Species/Unit | Dates | Daily Bag | Application Period |
|---|---|---|---|
| Canada Goose – Early | Sep 1-30, 2025 | 5 | |
| Canada Goose – Unit 1 | Oct 1 – Dec 16, 2025 | 3 | |
| Canada Goose – Unit 2 | Nov 3, 2025 – Feb 15, 2026 | 3 | |
| Light Geese | Sep 27, 2025 – Jan 9, 2026 | 20 | No plugged guns required |
| White-fronted Geese | Sep 27 – Dec 9, 2025 | 2 |
Specialty Waterfowl
| Species | Dates | Bag Limit | Application Required |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tundra Swan | Oct 4, 2025 – Jan 9, 2026 | 1 | Yes (Aug 7-14, 2025) |
| Sandhill Crane | Sep 27 – Nov 23, 2025 | 3 |
For those interested in comparing regulations with neighboring states, you might find our Nebraska hunting seasons guide helpful for planning multi-state adventures.
Other Available Game
South Dakota offers unique opportunities for less common species that add variety to your outdoor pursuits.
| Species | Season | License Required | Special Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Prairie Dog | Year-round | Predator/Varmint | No closed season |
| Jackrabbit | Year-round | Predator/Varmint | Considered small game |
| Crow | Year-round | Predator/Varmint | No bag limit |
| Ground Squirrel | Year-round | Predator/Varmint | Agricultural areas |
| Porcupine | Year-round | Predator/Varmint | |
| Frog | May 1 – Oct 31 | Fishing License | Daily limit: 12 |
Special Opportunities
Mountain Lion: Limited seasons in Black Hills (Dec 26, 2024 – Apr 30, 2025) and statewide (Dec 26, 2024 – Dec 25, 2025) require special applications and have quota systems.
Buffalo: Custer State Park offers both trophy and non-trophy buffalo licenses through special drawings (applications July 23 – August 7, 2025).
Wildlife Areas and Public Access
South Dakota maintains over 1.8 million acres of public land for outdoor recreation. The state’s Game Production Areas (GPAs), Walk-In Areas (WIAs), and other public access programs provide excellent opportunities.
Key Resources:
- Public Hunting Atlas: Available online and in print
- Walk-In Area Program: Over 1.3 million acres enrolled
- Game Production Areas: 280+ areas totaling 240,000+ acres
- School and Public Lands: Additional access opportunities
Popular Public Areas:
- Lacreek National Wildlife Refuge
- Sand Lake National Wildlife Refuge
- Missouri River bottomlands
- James River corridor
- Prairie pothole region
For detailed maps and specific area information, visit the official GFP hunting areas webpage or download the Public Hunting Atlas.
Permits, Tags & License Details
Understanding South Dakota’s licensing structure ensures you’re properly equipped for your chosen pursuit.
Resident License Fees (2025)
| License Type | Cost | Validity | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Small Game | $36 | Dec 15, 2024 – Jan 31, 2026 | Includes $6 surcharge |
| Combination | $60 | Dec 15, 2024 – Jan 31, 2026 | Small game + fishing |
| Senior Combination | $43 | Dec 15, 2024 – Jan 31, 2026 | Ages 65+ |
| 1-Day Small Game | $15 | Single day | No habitat stamp required |
| Youth Small Game | $5 | Dec 15, 2024 – Jan 31, 2026 | Ages 12-17 |
| Mentored Small Game | $5 | Dec 15, 2024 – Jan 31, 2026 | Under 16 |
| Habitat Stamp | $10 | Annual | Required for most licenses |
| State Migratory Bird Certificate | $5 | July 1, 2025 – June 30, 2026 | Required for waterfowl |
| Federal Waterfowl Stamp | $29 | July 1, 2025 – June 30, 2026 | Ages 16+ for waterfowl |
| Predator/Varmint | $6 | Dec 15, 2024 – Jan 31, 2026 | |
| Furbearer | $31 | Dec 15, 2024 – Jan 31, 2026 |
Nonresident License Information
Nonresidents enjoy many of the same opportunities with different fee structures and some additional requirements:
- Small Game License: Required for upland birds and small game
- Waterfowl Licenses: Limited draw system for most waterfowl opportunities
- Youth Licenses: Available for ages 12-17 at reduced rates
- Mentored Licenses: Available for youth under 16
Big Game Applications
Most big game licenses require applications during specific periods:
- Combined Deer Drawing: Applications typically due in June
- Elk Applications: Due by May 20 for most units
- Antelope Applications: Various deadlines throughout summer
- Turkey Applications: Spring applications due in February
Remember that preference points are awarded for unsuccessful applications and can improve your odds in future drawings.
South Dakota Quick FAQ
Q: Do I need hunter education to buy a license?
A: Yes, unless you’re participating in the mentored hunter program. Youth under 16 can hunt with a mentor without prior hunter education completion.
Q: What’s the difference between the Three-Duck Option and Traditional Option?
A: When purchasing your State Migratory Bird Certificate, you choose between traditional waterfowl regulations or a three-duck daily limit option. This choice applies to your entire waterfowl season.
Q: Can I hunt on private land with a state license?
A: Yes, with landowner permission. State licenses are valid on private property throughout South Dakota, including deeded lands within reservation boundaries.
Q: What happens if I don’t draw a big game license?
A: You receive a preference point for that species/unit, improving your odds for next year’s drawing. You can also apply for returned licenses later in the year.
Q: Are there any Hunter Orange requirements?
A: While not legally required statewide, fluorescent orange is strongly recommended and required in some areas. Always check specific unit regulations.
Q: Can nonresidents hunt during resident-only seasons?
A: No, resident-only periods (like the October 11-13 pheasant opener) are exclusive to South Dakota residents.
Q: What’s required for waterfowl beyond basic licenses?
A: You need a State Migratory Bird Certificate, Federal Waterfowl Stamp (ages 16+), and appropriate small game or waterfowl license. HIP registration is completed when purchasing your State Migratory Bird Certificate.
Essential Resources
Official Sources:
- South Dakota Game, Fish & Parks: gfp.sd.gov
- License Purchasing: Go Outdoors South Dakota
- Application Information: gfp.sd.gov/view-applications/
- Public Access Maps: gfp.sd.gov/hunting-areas/
Contact Information:
- General Information: 605.223.7660
- Regional Offices: Multiple locations statewide
- Conservation Officers: Available for field questions
Mobile Resources:
- GFP Mobile App: License purchasing and reference
- Public Hunting Atlas: Digital and print versions
- Weather and Conditions: Real-time updates
If you’re planning adventures beyond South Dakota, our Montana hunting seasons guide provides comprehensive information for another premier western hunting destination.
Conclusion
South Dakota’s 2025-2026 game schedule offers outstanding opportunities across diverse landscapes and species. From the world-famous pheasant opener to trophy deer in the Black Hills, the Mount Rushmore State continues to deliver exceptional outdoor experiences.
Key reminders for your successful season: apply for limited-draw licenses by their respective deadlines, purchase your licenses and stamps early, verify current regulations before each outing, and always obtain landowner permission when hunting private property. The state’s commitment to wildlife management and public access ensures these traditions will continue for future generations.
Remember to double-check all dates and regulations on the official GFP website, as changes can occur. Purchase your permits early to avoid disappointment, and consider applying for those once-in-a-lifetime big game opportunities. Whether you’re chasing roosters in the corn fields or calling elk in the pines, South Dakota’s 2025-2026 seasons promise memorable adventures.
Plan responsibly, hunt safely, and enjoy everything the great state of South Dakota has to offer. Bookmark this guide for quick reference throughout the year – we’ll keep it updated as new information becomes available.
