COVID-19 General Information
As our state faces the COVID-19 pandemic, Game, Fish and Parks (GFP) is working hard to make sure South Dakota’s outdoors are open to be used safely and responsibly. However, COVID-19 has impacted day-to-day operations and outdoor recreation.
General COVID-19 Information
- The outdoors remain open.
- Recreate responsibly.
- Everyone who recreates in South Dakota has a personal responsibility to practice good stewardship and respect for their surroundings as well as for their fellow friends, families and neighbors – now more than ever.
Tag Returns
- Hunters holding a South Dakota firearms deer, prairie antelope, mentored antelope, tundra swan, nonresident waterfowl, resident special goose, fall turkey, or mentor turkey license have the opportunity to return the license for a full refund.
- Hunters are not required to return their tags-tag returns are entirely voluntary.
- Hunters returning their license will receive a full refund and retain their preference points.
- Simply send a note requesting a refund due to COVID-19, and your license to: GFP Licensing Office, 20641 SD Hwy 1806, Ft. Pierre, SD 57532.
- The following tags must be postmarked by September 25:
- Nonresident Waterfowl
- Tundra Swan
- Prairie Antelope
- Mentored Antelope
- Resident Special Goose
- The following tags must be postmarked by October 31:
- Firearm Deer Seasons
- Fall Turkey
- Mentored Turkey
- Read more about tag returns.
COVID-19 Information on Access
COVID-19 Information on Hunting and Fishing
COVID-19 Information related to Educational Activities
COVID-19 Information for Parks and Camping
Contact South Dakota Game, Fish and Parks
-
Open opportunities for outdoor recreation that require limited contact with other individuals:
- Shooting and archery ranges
- Hunting seasons
- Fishing (and boat ramps)
- Fish cleaning stations
- Bathrooms
- Disk golf courses
- And, of course, our trails.
- Other facilities or services related to frequently touched surfaces are likely unavailable.
Recommendations from Governor Noem and the CDC:
- Recreate locally and responsibly.
- Practice social distancing and avoid crowds.
- Wash your hands frequently and thoroughly.
- Stay home if you have any symptoms and contact your doctor.
Additional Information on COVID-19:
The most recent GFP Podcast and Blast episodes have discussed everything you need to know regarding outdoor recreation in South Dakota as we address COVID-19. You can find these episodes here:
- Episode 12 - Question and Answers featuring "Are you closing fishing and hunting season?"
- Episode 13-Amazing Snakes and Fish Stories
- Episode 14-Fish Stocking, Mercury in Lakes, more Q+A
Please make mindful decisions as you care for yourself and your loved ones. For more information on COVID-19 in South Dakota, https://covid.sd.gov/.