Skip to main content

Course Outline

South Dakota map

The area (unit) where you are allowed to bowhunt depends on the species being hunted and whether you are on private land or public land.

  • You must have permission from the landowner or lessee to:
    • Bowhunt on private lands during legal archery seasons or …
    • Retrieve big game from private land.
  • In the Black Hills Fire Protection District, you may not bowhunt on private land if:
    • The land is posted or …
    • The landowner or lessee has denied you entry.
  • On Indian trust land:
    • State licenses are valid on private, public, and deeded lands within the boundaries of an Indian reservation.
    • You must contact the appropriate tribal office before hunting on any tribal lands.
  • To hunt on public lands, refer to the South Dakota GFP website for maps and specific information by county.

South Dakota has Walk-In Areas (WIAs) for hunting on foot only. These areas are selected annually. For more information, visit the Walk-In Areas website.

  • Unit 9 of 9
  • Topic 4 of 8
  • Page 1 of 3