Prairie Dog Hunting in South Dakota Year-Round

By Scout Nelson

In South Dakota, prairie dog hunting is allowed throughout the year with no set bag limits or hunting hours. This makes it an accessible and ongoing activity for both residents and non-residents. A small game and predator/varmint license are required for those looking to hunt prairie dogs, and these licenses are valid for hunting in U.S. Forest Service-managed national grasslands in western South Dakota.

Prairie dogs are most commonly found in the western two-thirds of the state. These small rodents, which are closely related to squirrels and chipmunks, typically measure between 14 to 17 inches in length. They live in burrows, which are accompanied by large mounds with central holes. While prairie dogs play a significant ecological role, their burrowing habits are sometimes considered a nuisance by private property owners.

This is why some landowners allow hunting to control their population.

However, hunters should be mindful that it is illegal to hunt prairie dogs on private land without the permission of the landowner. In such cases, hunting on private property without consent is considered a misdemeanor in South Dakota.

Additionally, prairie dog hunting is permitted on Native American tribal lands. However, hunters must be aware that a state hunting license does not apply on these lands, and they must follow the specific regulations set by the tribes.

This hunting practice offers both recreational and pest management benefits, as prairie dogs can cause significant damage to agricultural lands through their burrows. Farmers and ranchers may allow hunters to control their populations as a way to minimize land damage.

Photo Credit: gettyimages-ianchrisgraham