Deer

Northeastern South Dakota abounds with habitat for Whitetail Deer. Rolling hills, rivers, tree lines, hidden valleys and dense underbrush provide ample cover, and a challenging but rewarding experience for the veteran hunter and newcomer alike.

Season
The firearm season traditionally runs mid-November to late November, while Archery season runs late September through December.

Licensing
South Dakota's East River deer firearms licenses are distributed by lottery drawings. Hunters should complete an application by mail or apply online by the indicated deadline. Applications are usually available in late July with a first deadline in early September.

Nonresident hunting is very limited in the eastern half of the state. Nonresidents must wait until the third resident drawing before applying for East River deer licenses.

Youth deer licenses are open to youths ages 12-15 (age 11 if will turn 12 by Dec. 31) who have successfully completed a hunter safety course from any U.S. state. The first two drawings are resident-only.

For more information on South Dakota deer seasons, including archery, muzzleloader, and refuge deer, visit the South Dakota Division of Wildlife.