A license is always required for hunting big or small game. South Dakota issues resident and nonresident hunting licenses in game specific categories; application deadlines typically fall two to four months before the season opens. Nonresident licenses are available for all kinds of fame, though some are available only via lottery. Visit www.sdgfp.info for season dates and license application deadlines, and avoid disappointment by planning your trip well ahead of hunting season.

U.S. and Canadian citizens who are over 16 and have valid Social Security numbers (not required of Canadian citizens) can purchase over-the-counter licenses online at www.sdgfp.info; a credit card and a printer are needed to buy the license and print it for use. Parents may purchase youth permits for their children.

Those who need to present some other form of physical documentation (e.g.' nonresident students attending school in South Dakota and nonresidents serving in the military stationed in South Dakota) must purchase their licenses from a storefront agent. 

Non-U.S./Canadian citizens who need to purchase hunting licenses in advance of entering the United States should call Game, Fish and Parks, (605) 773-3485, to make special arrangement.

Monthly averages Jan. Feb. Mar. Apr. May June July Aug. Sept. Oct. Nov. Dec.
High, degree F 33 38 47 60 71 82 89 87 76 64 47 35
Low, degree F 7 12 21 33 44 54 60 58 46 34 21 9
Precipitation (in.) 0.29 0.43 1.04 1.67 3.16 2.89 3.06 2.28 1.53 0.91 0.6 0.37

GRAND RIVER AND CEDAR RIVER NATIONAL GRASSLANDS
Color map of the national grasslands in northwestern South Dakota.
Avaliable from
Fishing Maps
P.O. Box 2448
Bismarck, ND 58502

MISSOURI RIVER SYSTEM FISHING MAPS
All maps show water depths, underwater river channels, sunken islands, points, flats, deep holes and underwater structures. Prices vary.
Available from
DEPARTMENT OF THE ARMY, CORPS OF ENGINEERS
Omaha District Operations Divisions
CEMRO-OP-N
215 North 17th St.
Omaha, NE  68102-4987
1-866-285-3219

MISSOURI RIVER BOATING AND RECREATION GUIDE MAPS
Maps for lakes Lewis and Clark, Francis Case, Sharpe and Oahe. Prices vary.
Available from
SOUTH DAKOTA OFFICE OF TOURISM
7111 Wells Avenue
Pierre, SD  57501-3369

SOUTH DAKOTA VACATION GUIDE
Booklet containing information on lodging, resorts, attractions, restaurants, campgrounds. Free.

CAMPGROUND GUIDE
Booklet listing public and private campgrounds, with descriptions and location maps. Free.