South Dakota Deer Season runs from September 1st, 2022 - January 1st, 2023. Whether you are a seasoned hunter, or this is your first time, it’s always smart to make sure you have a plan and understand the hunting regulations for the year. This blog will provide you with several resources so that you have all the information you need!

South Dakota Deer Seasons

Archery: September 1st, 2022-January 1st, 2023

Archery Antlerless Only Whitetail: September 1st, 2022-January 1st, 2023

Apprentice and Mentored: September 10th, 2022-January 1st, 2023

Muzzleloader Antlerless Only Whitetail: December 1st, 2022- January 1st, 2023

Muzzleloader: December 1st, 2022- January 1st, 2023

For area specific firearm seasons visit the South Dakota Game, Fish and Parks website.

Archery and firearm shooting hours for big game are one-half hour before sunrise to one-half hour after sunset.

Regulations

A big game license is required. South Dakota licenses may be purchased here. A licensee must carry both portions while hunting the specified big game season. The license and tag may not be transferred, and the license must be in the licensee’s possession while hunting.

Archery Equipment Regulations:

“A person hunting with bow and arrow may not use or possess any of the following:

- Explosive, poisonous, hydraulic or pneumatic points;

- Crossbows and draw-lock devices that hold the bow at partial or full draw except for individuals who qualify and possess a valid crossbow/draw-lock permit;

- Arrow rests that have more than three inches of continuous contact with the arrow;

- Electronic devices mounted to the bow that aid in the taking of game. However, cameras, video cameras, cell phones used exclusively for photographic purposes, lighted sight pins and

illuminated arrow nocks may be used;

- Electronic arrow or electronic string releases;

- Telescopic sights;

- An arrow without a broadhead (fixed or mechanical) that has at least two metal cutting edges when hunting a big game animal, except blunt points may be possessed and used when hunting a turkey. Both field points and blunt points may be possessed and used when hunting small game or at any time when possessed and used as practice arrows;

- A bow that measures less than 40 pounds pull when hunting elk or less than 30 pounds when hunting big game other than elk” - South Dakota Big Game Regulations

If you are curious about other specific rules and regulations in South Dakota please visit gfp.sd.gov