South Dakota Hunting & Fishing Licenses
Complete guide to South Dakota hunting and fishing licenses for 2026. Get current prices, purchase online, and learn about SD GFP's digital license requirements.
Quick Facts
Digital License
Accepted
License Year
January 1 - December 31
Agency
SD GFP
Draw System
preference
HIP Required
Migratory birds
Last updated: January 29, 2026
South Dakota License Pricing
Compare resident and non-resident prices for hunting and fishing licenses.
| License Type | Resident | Non-Resident |
|---|---|---|
| Resident Small Game Small game and habitat license combo | $36.00 | $142.00 |
| Resident Fishing Annual fishing license | $31.00 | $80.00 |
| Combo Combination hunting and fishing license | $60.00 | N/A |
| Deer License Deer requires lottery application | $Lottery | $Lottery |
Prices are for annual licenses unless otherwise noted. Additional stamps and endorsements may be required.
Go Outdoors SD
Digital licenses available through Go Outdoors SD app, though users report navigation issues.
Lowest-rated GoOutdoors app. Users report navigation issues and login problems.
Hunter Passport
All your licenses, one app
Tired of managing multiple state apps? Hunter Passport stores all your South Dakota licenses alongside every other state - and works completely offline.
- Works offline - no signal needed
- Supports all 50 states
- Quick Display for game wardens
Store up to 2 licenses free. Unlimited with Premium.
Hunter Passport is not affiliated with or endorsed by any state wildlife agency.
South Dakota Tag Draws & Lotteries
preference Point System
Applicants with the most points are guaranteed to draw before those with fewer points.
Draw Species
Application Deadline
March-May (varies by species)
Preference point system. NO elk for non-residents. Deer lottery for most units.
South Dakota Hunting Quirks & Tips
Unique rules and insider knowledge for hunting and fishing in South Dakota.
Worst-Rated License App
criticalThe Go Outdoors SD app has a 2.1 star rating with severe navigation issues. Users report being logged out when pressing back button.
No Elk for Non-Residents
criticalSouth Dakota does not allow non-residents to apply for elk tags. Residents only for elk hunting.
Premier Pheasant Hunting
importantSouth Dakota is the top pheasant hunting destination in the nation. The state hosts over 100,000 non-resident pheasant hunters annually.
Deer Lottery Required
importantMost deer hunting units require lottery application. Over-the-counter archery deer available in some units.
Hunting Tools for South Dakota
Free calculators and planning tools to help you hunt smarter in South Dakota.
Legal Shooting Hours
Calculate legal hunting start and end times based on sunrise/sunset
Hunting License Cost
Compare hunting and fishing license costs for South Dakota and residency
Hunter Education
Find hunter education requirements, exemptions, and course providers for South Dakota
Hunting Season Dates
Find hunting season dates for South Dakota, species, and weapon type
Bag Limit & Size Limit
Find daily, possession, and size limits for South Dakota and species
South Dakota Hunting & Fishing FAQ
How much does a South Dakota hunting license cost?
Resident small game/habitat combo costs $36, while non-residents pay $142. Deer licenses require separate lottery application.
Does South Dakota accept digital hunting licenses?
Yes, but be warned - the Go Outdoors SD app is rated only 2.1 stars with significant usability issues. Consider keeping paper backups.
Can non-residents hunt elk in South Dakota?
No, South Dakota elk tags are available to residents only. Non-residents cannot apply for elk permits.
Is South Dakota good for pheasant hunting?
Yes, South Dakota is the premier pheasant hunting destination in the nation, attracting over 100,000 non-resident hunters annually.
Do I need to apply for deer lottery in South Dakota?
Most deer units require lottery application. Some archery deer is available over-the-counter, but check specific unit requirements.
Store Your South Dakota License in Hunter Passport
Keep your South Dakota hunting and fishing licenses alongside all your other states. Works offline, displays instantly, never fumble for paper again.