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South Dakota Hunting Information
In South Dakota, non-residents are only allowed to apply for mule deer, whitetail deer, antelope and bison. WTA TAGS offers application services for these species.
South Dakota is a hidden gem for hunting both whitetails and mule deer – especially West of the Missouri River. This state does not allow outfitting or guiding on public, walk-in-access or state land. Outfitters are only allowed to guide on private land. WTA TAGS offers application assistance for the West River Special Buck tag. This is a rifle tag, good on private land West of the Missouri River, where outfitters can legally guide clients. This tag can usually be drawn with two to three preference points.
The bison hunts are conducted within the 71K acre Custer State Park. The state offers non-resident tags for Trophy Bull and Non-Trophy Bull (with separate/distinct point systems). Drawing odds are some of the best in the West for this iconic species. You must have at least two points to be eligible to draw. Your chances then increase as more points are accumulated. If drawn, this highly regulated hunt is conducted by Custer State Park employees/guides at no additional charge. They will assist with field judging and field handling and will moderately assist with transporting the carcass. This is a highly successful hunt. Bulls are eligible for Boone & Crockett, the Super 10, and the NA Super Slam. Many bison in the Boone & Crockett Record Book come from this herd in sunny South Dakota.
If you would like assistance with applying for tags in South Dakota, call our office today at 1-800-755-8247 and take the first step toward a brighter hunting future. And remember, WTA TAGS applies your children FREE OF CHARGE and offers 50% off for female applicants.
South Dakota Application Information
- Species: WTA TAGS offers application assistance for the following species in South Dakota: mule deer, whitetail deer, antelope and bison.
- Point System: South Dakota has a preference point system in place for its deer and antelope tags. Therefore, tags will only be allocated to the applicants with the highest point total. For trophy bison, South Dakota has a modified point system. You first must have two points to be considered in the bison draw. Your chances then increase as you accumulate more points. Preference points are purged after not applying for five years.
- Party Applications: Up to six applicants may apply together for deer and antelope. Group applications are considered at the lowest point total in the group. Bison applications must be individual.
- Hunter’s Safety Card Requirement: Non-residents under the age of 16 must provide their Hunter’s Safety Card number prior to applying.
- Youth: You must be 12 years old to hunt big game in South Dakota.
South Dakota Application Deadlines
West River Special Buck
April 14, 2026
Bison
August 5, 2026
Bonus Point
December 15, 2026
South Dakota Species: Antelope, Deer, Bison
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Top 5 Advantages to using WTA TAGS
1. Dedicated Consultant
Each client is assigned a dedicated WTA TAGS Consultant. Our Consultants are the absolute experts in this field and valuable to have in your corner.
2. Peace Of Mind
Your applications will always be submitted on time and with your best interest at heart. If drawn, you will be notified by your dedicated Consultant.
3. The Float
Several states require the applicant to submit the entire tag fee, up-front, at time of application. No worries, WTA TAGS will float the tag fee on your behalf.
4. Extensive Outfitter Network
Once drawn, you can be assured WTA TAGS has the very best outfitter network in place to consider for your world-class tag.
5. Women and Children Program
Female applicants receive 50% off the WTA TAGS service fees, and kids under 19 are FREE!
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1-800-755-8247
1-800-755-8247
