COVID-19 Information on Hunting and Fishing

Fishing

• Fishing remains open to individuals with a valid fishing license.
• Recreate locally and 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 be going in as weather conditions, water levels, and other factors allow our staff to conduct this work safely. 
• The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers has reopened six boat launches on the Missouri River near Fort Thompson. These launches include: Right Tailrace, Left Tailrace, Old Fort Thompson, Spillway Dike, Good Soldier and North Shore. Read more on reopening by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. 
• Tribal land boat launches may be subject to different regulations. Contact the local tribal office for specific information. 

Fishing Tournaments 

• Applications are still being accepted.
• Previously scheduled fishing tournaments will be at the discretion of the event organizer.
  • If you are planning to attend a tournament, please contact the event organizer for specific information regarding that event.

Spawning and other Fisheries Activities

• GFP will not be conducting walleye spawning operations this spring.
• Walleye populations in South Dakota are currently in excellent shape and GFP does not anticipate a negative impact on fisheries. 
• Most fish stocking activities are on hold due to the COVID-19 pandemic. 
• Limited stockings of trout are occurring to reduce fish densities at specific hatcheries.
• Read more about GFP’s spring fisheries activities.

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 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/.