South Dakota is one of the top two pheasant harvest states and claims the top number of birds per hunter per season. Located in the top ring-neck range, Mitchell is regarded as one of the best pheasant hunting spots in the nation, a position it has maintained for decades. The highest concentration of hunting guides in South Dakota can be found in the Mitchell area, offering an excellent selection when planning your hunt.
The season generally begins the third week of October, although residents and youth have chances to hunt public land prior to that. Additionally, several area hunting preserves enjoy expanded seasons.
High pheasant numbers usually mean more competition from other hunters, so we recommend waiting to come until after cold weather sets in. The first significant snowfall of the season often arrives in early November. If a day of hunting in snow sounds like fun, November can be the highlight of the season. Many times, you will have better luck finding availability in the late season, and the fields are plowed so there are less opportunities for our wily ring-necks to hide.