South Dakota Deer Season 2026-27

Open now

South Dakota's deer season opens 2026-09-01 and closes 2027-01-01.

Last verified September 25, 2026South Dakota wildlife agency

Zones & dates

  • Statewide

    Archery

    Open now
    Opens
    September 1, 2026
    Closes
    January 1, 2027
    Bag limit
    See official regulations for bag limits.
  • Black Hills

    Firearm

    Opens in 35 days
    Opens
    November 1, 2026
    Closes
    November 30, 2026
    Bag limit
    See official regulations for bag limits.
  • West River

    Firearm

    Opens in 48 days
    Opens
    November 14, 2026
    Closes
    November 29, 2026
    Bag limit
    See official regulations for bag limits.
  • East River

    Firearm

    Opens in 55 days
    Opens
    November 21, 2026
    Closes
    December 6, 2026
    Bag limit
    See official regulations for bag limits.
  • Statewide

    Muzzleloader

    Opens in 65 days
    Opens
    December 1, 2026
    Closes
    January 1, 2027
    Bag limit
    See official regulations for bag limits.
  • East River and West River

    Firearm - Antlerless

    Opens in 76 days
    Opens
    December 12, 2026
    Closes
    December 20, 2026
    Bag limit
    See official regulations for bag limits.

Key rules

Dates and units
Use the zone or region shown for your hunt.
Official regulations
Confirm license, permit, legal shooting hours, bag limits, and special requirements with the state agency before hunting.

Frequently asked questions

South Dakota's deer season opens 2026-09-01 and closes 2027-01-01.

Regulations change every year and can vary by county or unit. Hunting Season by State is a reference tool, not a substitute for the official regulation book — always verify dates, zones, and bag limits with the state wildlife agency before you hunt.