South Dakota Fishing License: Fees, Regulations, and Where to Buy
South Dakota is a state that offers a variety of fishing opportunities, from trout streams in the Black Hills to walleye fishing on the Missouri River. But you need a South Dakota fishing license before you can throw your line in the water. In this article, we will cover everything you need to know about obtaining a fishing license in South Dakota, including fees, regulations, and where to purchase one.
Fishing License Fees in South Dakota:
South Dakota offers both resident and non-resident fishing licenses. The fees for these licenses vary depending on your residency status and the length of time you want the license for. Here are the fees for fishing licenses in South Dakota:
- Resident One-Day Fishing License: $8
- Resident Annual Fishing License: $28
- Non-Resident One-Day Fishing License: $16
- Non-Resident Ten-Day Fishing License: $37
- Non-Resident Annual Fishing License: $67
In South Dakota, all fishing licenses cost an extra $1 on top of the fees listed above.
| LICENSE TYPE | COST |
| RESIDENT FISHING LICENSES | |
| Resident Annual Fishing | $28 |
| Resident 1-Day Fishing | $8 |
| Resident Senior Fishing | $12 |
| Game Fish Spearing & Archery Fishing Permit | $5 |
| Resident Setline License | $5 |
| Resident Hoop Net License | $10 |
| Resident Nursing Facility Group License | $35 |
| RESIDENT COMBINATION LICENSES | |
| Resident Combination (Small game + fishing) | $55 |
| Resident Senior Combination (Ages 65+) | $40 |
| Resident Junior Combination (Ages 16-18) | $27 |
| Resident Reduced Fee – Hunting and Fishing | Card for persons with total disability and certain veterans – South Dakota residents who qualify and are approved will be issued a Disabled/Veteran Hunting and Fishing Card for a $10 fee that is good for 4 years. |
| NONRESIDENT FISHING LICENSES | |
| Nonresident Family Fishing | $67 |
| Nonresident Annual Fishing | $67 |
| Nonresident 1-Day Fishing | $16 |
| Nonresident 3-Day Fishing | $37 |
| Nonresident Youth: Option 1 (Youth Annual Fishing License) | $25 |
| Nonresident Youth: Option 2 | Nonresidents under age 16 do not need a fishing license when fishing with a parent or guardian who has a valid South Dakota fishing license. The youth’s fish must be included in the daily and possession limit of the parent or guardian. Youth wishing to take their own limit of fish may purchase a nonresident fishing license. |
Regulations for Fishing in South Dakota:
There are several regulations that must be followed when fishing in South Dakota. These regulations are in place to protect fish populations and maintain the quality of fishing opportunities in the state. Here are some important regulations to keep in mind:
- Catch and release is required for all tiger musky and lake sturgeon.
- Daily limits vary depending on the type of fish. For example, the daily limit for walleye is six.
- Size limits also vary depending on the type of fish. For example, walleye must be at least 15 inches in length.
- Fishing seasons and methods can change based on where and what kind of fish are being caught.
Where to Buy a Fishing License in South Dakota
There are several ways you can buy a South Dakota fishing license. Here are some of the most common options:
Online
One of the easiest ways to purchase a South Dakota fishing license is online. To do this, simply visit the South Dakota Game, Fish, and Parks website at https://gfp.sd.gov/licenses-fishing/ and follow the instructions provided. You’ll need to provide some personal information and payment details to complete the transaction. Once you’ve purchased your fishing license online, you can print it out and start fishing right away.
In Person
If you would rather buy your fishing license in person, South Dakota gives you several options. Some of the most popular places to buy a fishing license in South Dakota in person are:
South Dakota Game, Fish, and Parks Service Centers: There are several places in the state where you can buy a fishing license from the South Dakota Game, Fish, and Parks department. To find a service center near you, visit https://gfp.sd.gov/about-us/contact-us/ and scroll down to the “Service Centers” section.
Sporting Goods Stores: Many sporting goods stores in South Dakota also sell fishing licenses. Some popular options include Cabela’s (601 Cabela Drive, Mitchell, SD 57301), Scheels (2101 W. 41st Street, Sioux Falls, SD 57105), and Runnings (1020 W. Cherry Street, Vermillion, SD 57069).
Bait Shops: Finally, some bait shops in South Dakota also sell fishing licenses. While these options may be less common than the others, they can be a convenient choice if you’re already planning to visit a bait shop for other supplies. Some popular options include Roy’s Bait Shop (702 S. Cedar Street, Pierre, SD 57501) and Bob’s Bait and Tackle (4214 W. 12th Street, Sioux Falls, SD 57106).
Over the phone
If you’d like to purchase your South Dakota fishing license over the phone, you can do so by calling the South Dakota Game, Fish, and Parks Department at (605) 223-7660. To finish the transaction, you’ll need to give some personal information and payment information over the phone.
What You Need to Know Before Purchasing a South Dakota Fishing License
Before you purchase a South Dakota fishing license, there are a few things you should know. First and foremost, make sure you understand the fishing regulations in South Dakota. These regulations can vary depending on the location, time of year, and type of fish you’re targeting. You can find more information on fishing regulations in South Dakota on the South Dakota Game, Fish, and Parks website at https://gfp.sd.gov/fishing-boating/.
Additionally, it’s important to know which type of fishing license you need. South Dakota offers both resident and non-resident fishing licenses, and the fees for these licenses vary depending on your residency status and the length of time you want the license for. You can find more information on fishing license fees in South Dakota on the South Dakota Game, Fish, and Parks website at https://gfp.sd.gov/licenses-fishing/.
FAQs:
Q: Do I need a fishing license to fish in South Dakota?
A: Yes, anyone over the age of 16 needs a fishing license to fish in South Dakota.
Q: Can I purchase a fishing license online?
Yes, you can buy a fishing license through the Game, Fish, and Parks website in South Dakota.
Q: How much does a fishing license cost in South Dakota? A: The cost of a fishing license in South Dakota varies depending on your residency status and the length of time you want the license for. See the above section for a breakdown of fees.
Q: Are there any special regulations I need to follow when fishing in South Dakota?
A: Yes, there are a number of rules in place to protect fish populations and keep fishing in the state at a high level. See the above section for more information on regulations.
Conclusion:
South Dakota is a great place to fish, but you’ll need a South Dakota fishing license before you can cast your line. The prices for resident and non-resident fishing licenses depend on how long the license is good for and if the person is a resident or not. You can purchase a license online, in person at service centers, sporting goods stores, or bait shops, or over the phone. Regulations are in place to protect fish populations and maintain quality fishing opportunities, so make sure to review them before heading out. Remember, anyone over 16 years old needs a license to fish in South Dakota.
