The weather in South Dakota can be extremely unpredictable.  It is not uncommon to have a trip planned for opening weekend of pheasant season and expect it to be cold only to find your group hunting in t-shirts.  The expected SD fall temps of 40-60 degrees are far from predictable, so packing "options" is highly recommended.  Dressing in layers with moisture wicking synthetics and/or wool will ensure that regardless if you have snow, rain or sunshine, you will be prepared.

Regardless of the temperature, always dress for safety; blaze orange is required by state law and there are no limits to how much you use.

Inevidably, South Dakota pheasant hunting will involve walking.  If you are hunting with a guide or hunting outfitter, most will provide transportation to and from the field, but once there your feet will be the vehicle getting you through the vast fields and grassland. Be prepared with proper hunting boots and realistic evaluation of your health.

What Supplies You Should Bring

Required equipment:

• South Dakota Small Game Hunting License.
  • A Non-Resident Licence is good for ten days, split into two, five day periods. Dates specified at time of purchase.
  • Purchase Online

Recommended equipment:

• Quality waterproof upland boots 

• Two pair – “spare laces.”
• Waterproof coat and pants – Gore-Tex or Omni Tech shells are ideal.

• Orange Hunting Vest

• Safety glasses

• Polar or Micro-fleece tops
• 
Polyprop singlet or Micro-fleece T-shirts

• Shorts and Polyprop or smart wool long johns.
• 
Dri-back” fleece trousers – jeans work, but get wet and stay wet

• Briar proof trousers and/or chaps

• Socks – Polyprop/Smart Wool and “Comfortable.”
• Orange Hat
• Leather gloves
• Neck warmer or balaclava
• 

Earplugs or other hearing protection (if needed)

• Camera
• 
Shotgun and Shells. (These are wild, hard flying birds so come prepared.)
  • Strongly recommend 12 gauge for wild birds

   

If you bring your own dog

Hunting dogs being brought into South Dakota are required to have a health certificate from their local veterinarian indicating that all shots are up-to-date and they are disease-free animals. Dog owners who have any questions concerning these requirements may call the Animal Industry Board at (605) 773-3321.

• Dog Crate
• Leash
• Electronic dog collar and/or Beeper collar
• Dog whistles
• First Aid Kit
• Dog treats