COVID-19 Information on Hunting and Fishing
Hunting
- Hunting seasons remain open to individuals with a valid hunting license/tag.
- Recreate responsibly.
- Hunters may return their big game tags for a full refund and retain their preference points if they choose to.
- Make mindful decisions about travel according to CDC guidelines.
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.
Fishing
- Fishing remains open to individuals with a valid fishing license.
- Recreate responsibly.
- Fish cleaning stations are open, please follow CDC personal hygiene guidelines.
- Make mindful decisions about travel according to CDC guidelines.
Boat Launches
- State-managed public boat launches remain open to the public.
- Docks will remain in as weather conditions, water levels and other factors allow.
- Tribal land boat launches may be subject to different regulations. Contact the local tribal office for specific information.
More Information on COVID-19
COVID-19 Information on Access
COVID-19 Information related to Educational Activities
COVID-19 Information related to Habitat
COVID-19 Information for Parks and Camping
Contact South Dakota Game, Fish and Parks
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 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/.