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South Dakota

Hunting

Hunting

Youth Waterfowl Seasons

Youth Waterfowl

One weekend has been set aside for youth waterfowl hunting opportunity before the regular waterfowl seasons begin. The season is open statewide.

This is an opportunity for adults to introduce young people to the joys and responsibility of hunting. An adult must accompany the youth on this hunt and the adult may not hunt ducks. The adult may hunt in other open seasons, including the Early Fall Canada Goose Season.

Youth ages 12-17 are eligible for this season. Youth who have reached age 18 by the first day of the season may not hunt. Resident youth ages 10-15 who are participating in the Mentored Hunt program may hunt during the Youth Waterfowl Season.

SEASON INFORMATION

Youth may not possess lead shot while hunting waterfowl during this season.

Daily Limits:

Ducks:

Same as the regular duck season (traditional and 3-duck options available).

Canada Geese:

Daily limit is 8 in the part of the state designated as Unit 1 during the Early Fall Canada Goose Season; limit is 4 in the rest of the state.

Possession Limit:

Twice the daily limit.

Shooting Hours:

One-half hour before sunrise to sunset.LICENSE REQUIREMENTS

Residents:

Must possess a valid Youth Small Game License ($5) and the State Migratory Bird Certification ($5).

Nonresidents:

Must possess one of the standard Nonresident Waterfowl licenses. Licenses are limited in number and must be applied for through a lottery drawing.

Key Dates

DescriptionDates
Youth Waterfowl | 2024See respective unit and species for specific dates.
Start: Sep 7, 2024
End: Sep 8, 2024