2026 South Dakota Pheasant Outlook

The Wait is OVER!

Rooster Rush Alert!

𝟐𝟎𝟐𝟔 𝐔𝐩𝐥𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐎𝐮𝐭𝐥𝐨𝐨𝐤 – 𝐒𝐨𝐮𝐭𝐡 𝐃𝐚𝐤𝐨𝐭𝐚 𝐢𝐬 𝐥𝐨𝐨𝐤𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐠𝐫𝐞𝐚𝐭!

Last year, hunters harvested 1.35 million pheasants—the highest pheasant harvest in 14 years along with nearly 55,000 grouse across South Dakota. Now, with the release of South Dakota Game, Fish and Parks’ 2026 Upland Outlook, the signs are pointing toward another strong upland hunting season.

A mild winter, near-normal spring conditions and timely summer rainfall have created favorable grassland conditions across much of South Dakota’s pheasant range, providing the habitat upland birds need to thrive.

Healthy bird populations start with healthy habitat. Grasslands provide critical nesting cover, brood-rearing habitat and winter cover throughout the year. Every acre restored, preserved and properly managed today helps strengthen South Dakota’s hunting tradition and protect our outdoor heritage for generations to come.

𝟐𝟎𝟐𝟔 𝐒𝐞𝐚𝐬𝐨𝐧 𝐎𝐩𝐞𝐧𝐞𝐫𝐬

• Prairie Grouse & Partridge — September 19

• Traditional Pheasant & Quail — October 17

• Seasons run through January 31, 2027

Read the full 2026 Upland Outlook here: 2026 South Dakota Pheasant Outlook