South Dakota has 150,000 upland bird hunters—including 85,000 nonresidents—who flock to the state every year to take part in its legendary pheasant hunting opportunities. For good reason: South Dakota is the undisputed king of pheasant destinations, boasting an average population of 7.4 million ringnecks over the past 20 years. Hunters spend nearly $200 million through license sales, fuel, food and accommodations during the state’s 3-month season.
Habitat remains the critical factor for maintaining long-term pheasant numbers, and that’s why South Dakota Tourism supports and partners with Pheasants Forever, a 130,000-member organization dedicated to the conservation of pheasants, quail and other wildlife through habitat improvements and land management programs.
South Dakota is the undisputed king of pheasant destinations, boasting an average population of 7.4 million ringnecks over the past 20 years.
Local groups are also critical in keeping South Dakota the pheasant hunting capital of the world. The Aberdeen Pheasant Coalition is a prime example, recognized this past year by Outdoor Life magazine with a prestigious Open Country Award.
Plan a trip to South Dakota for a pheasant hunt and “Find Your Great Place.” You’re guaranteed to build lifelong memories, actively contribute to a valuable prong of wildlife conservation … and probably even bag your limit of roosters.
