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/.