Licensing and Season Information

South Dakota Pheasant Hunting Season

Hunter in orange vest

Pheasant hunting season in South Dakota runs from mid-October through early January. With a yearly pheasant population of more than 8 million pheasants, the fields of South Dakota are the avid hunter's choice for bagging birds. Each year hunters harvest more than a million pheasants, and the staff at Pheasant Hunt Get-Away can help make sure you take home your share!

Daily limit: Three roosters per hunter
Possession limit: 15 roosters, accrued at the daily limit of 3 roosters per day

Hunting Licenses

Hunting licenses and handbooks are issued through South Dakota Game Fish & Parks. Licenses can be purchased online or at local storefront agencies.

Hunter Safety

Safety is a top priority at Pheasant Hunt Get-Away. In order to maintain a safe hunting environment, all hunters must be aware of all South Dakota state hunting laws and regulations. We reserve the right to terminate any hunt in which guests do not follow South Dakota state hunting laws and regulations.

Dog Requirements

Dogs being brought into South Dakota are required to have a health certificate from their local veterinarian indicating that all shots are up-to-date and they are disease-free animals. Dog owners who have any questions concerning requirements may call the Animal Industry Board at 605.773.3321.

Safety Guidelines

  • Before hunting, you must have a South Dakota hunting license and follow South Dakota law.
  • No shooting at pheasants (or anything else) on the ground. Low shooting is strictly prohibited.
  • Safe shooting is the rule. If you have any doubt, don't shoot.
  • No alcohol prior to or during the hunt.
  • Each hunter is required to wear hunter's blaze orange. A blaze orange hat, shirt, vest or coat is required.
  • Each hunter is required to wear safety glasses or some other adequate type of eye protection.
  • Empty your gun at the end of each field and do not reload until in position to start the next walk. Keep gun actions open and guns unloaded when not hunting or when being transported between fields.
  • Always be aware of other hunters and blockers.
  • When you shoot a bird, mark the location and retrieve the bird right away. This reduces wasted and wounded birds.

Purchase a License Online

South Dakota Hunting Handbook