When is Turkey Season in South Dakota? A Complete Guide

Turkey season is an exciting time for hunters in South Dakota. The state offers ample opportunities to bag these challenging birds. Knowing when turkey season occurs and preparing accordingly is key to having a successful hunt. This article provides a comprehensive guide on turkey seasons in South Dakota, covering key dates, license info, regulations, tips, and more.

Overview of Turkey Season Dates

South Dakota offers both spring and fall turkey hunting seasons. The seasons occur in distinct periods

• Spring Turkey Season runs from April 11th – May 31st, 2023. This is the more popular season with the most permits issued.

• Fall Turkey Season is split into two segments

  • September 1st – January 1st, 2023 for archery only.

  • October 22nd – January 1st, 2023 for shotgun/archery.

So spring focuses on gobblers, while fall targets hens and young turkeys. The split fall dates allow both bow and firearm hunters to participate.

Turkey Hunting Licenses in SD

To hunt turkeys in South Dakota, you need to purchase the appropriate license. Several options exist:

• Spring Turkey License – valid for the spring season only. South Dakota residents pay $28, non-residents pay $135.

• Fall Turkey License – valid for the fall season only. Residents pay $28, non-residents pay $135.

• Annual Combination Turkey License – valid for both spring and fall. Cost is $40 for residents, $195 for non-residents.

You must carry your license on your person while hunting. Licenses can be purchased online, at local vendors, or Game, Fish & Parks offices.

Bag Limits and Other Turkey Regulations

When hunting turkeys, be sure to follow all rules and regulations:

• Bag Limit – The daily bag limit is 1 bearded turkey in the spring, 1 turkey of either sex in the fall. Possession limit is 3.

• Legal Shooting Hours – 1⁄2 hour before sunrise to sunset.

• Hunting Methods – Shotguns, muzzleloaders, crossbows, bows are allowed. Electronic calls are legal.

• Tagging – All harvested turkeys must be tagged immediately upon kill. Tags are provided with licenses.

Knowing the regulations is critical to staying legal during your hunts. Review the full SD turkey hunting rules guide for additional details.

Tips for Hunting Turkeys in South Dakota

Preparation and strategy are key for a successful turkey hunt:

• Scout – Locate flocks in your chosen hunting area and identify roosting spots. Arrive before dawn to intercept returning birds.

• Use Decoys and Calls – Set up hen decoys and use turkey calls to draw in wary toms. Take care not to overcall.

• Stay Hidden and Still – Camouflage clothing and minimal movement are essential. Sit against a tree and avoid quick motions.

• Be Patient – Calling in a gobbler can take 30+ minutes. Don’t give up too quickly if he hangs up out of range.

• Aim Carefully – Turkeys have small vital areas. Wait for neck or head shots at 20-30 yards. Pattern your shotgun accordingly.

With smart preparation and persistence, you can experience the thrill of bagging a spring tom or fall hen in South Dakota’s excellent turkey habitat.

Prime Public Hunting Areas for Turkeys

South Dakota features many public lands open to turkey hunting. Top destinations include:

• Black Hills National Forest – Mixed pine forest with Merriam’s turkeys. Open terrain allows longer shots.

• Fort Pierre National Grassland – Rolling plains with cottonwood draws holding Rio Grande turkeys.

• Buffalo Gap National Grassland – Prairie river bottoms near the Badlands support turkeys. Limited tree cover.

• Waubay National Wildlife Refuge – Woodlands, wetlands, and grasslands holding eastern subspecies.

• Sand Lake National Wildlife Refuge – Substantial oak forest habitat attractive to turkeys.

On public lands, scouting is critical to locate where birds are congregating. Be flexible and mobile to find more private land access through Farm Bureau programs.

For thrilling spring turkey hunting, South Dakota delivers ample opportunities. With the season running April 11th – May 31st in 2023, make plans now. Purchase required licenses, scout areas, pattern your firearm, practice calling, and study regulations. Careful preparation will lead to success when that big tom finally struts into range.

The fall season also offers a chance at unique turkey hunting from September through January. Hunters with proper licenses can pursue birds in either archery or firearm seasons. With open public lands and the possibility of private access, South Dakota provides prime turkey habitat for all hunters.

Time your vacation right to experience spring or fall turkey hunting in South Dakota. With the tips and info provided here, you will be set for an exciting hunt. Gobble at sunrise with wary spring toms or outsmart cagey fall hens. Savor the camaraderie and challenge of turkey hunting alongside welcoming South Dakota locals.