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/.