South Dakota

A nonresident annual fishing license in South Dakota costs $80.00. For comparison, South Dakota residents pay $31.00. Short-term options: 1 Day Resident: $10.00; 1 Day Nonresident: $26.00; 3 Day Nonresident: $45.00. The license year runs December 15 - January 31 following year.

Purchase your South Dakota fishing license online at https://gfp.sd.gov/hunt-fish-license/. Valid ID; Combination License (hunt/fish) $60; GFP mobile app available. Licenses are administered by the South Dakota Game, Fish, and Parks (GFP).

Under 16 exempt; Residents 65+ annual $17; combination senior $43. Always check the official South Dakota website for the most current exemption details and any additional categories that may qualify.

Habitat Stamp: $10 resident, $25 nonresident (mandatory); paddlefish tag separate; $6 surcharge on combination licenses. Be sure to purchase any required stamps or endorsements before heading out, as they are often checked during enforcement.

Fishing seasons in South Dakota: Walleye/pike/bass open mid-May; year-round for some species; ice fishing season. Bag limits: Walleye: varies by lake; Perch: varies; check regulations. Always consult the current South Dakota fishing regulations for the most up-to-date season dates and limits, as they can change annually.

Habitat Stamp required in addition to fishing license; specific regulations for Lake Oahe and other reservoirs. For the complete set of rules including gear restrictions, size limits, and special waters, visit the official South Dakota fish and wildlife website.

South Dakota has the following border water or reciprocal agreements: Missouri River border waters; Big Stone Lake/Lake Traverse with Minnesota. Pennsylvania is not directly included in these agreements, so a standard nonresident license is required.

For the most current regulations, license prices, and season dates, visit the official South Dakota fishing page at https://gfp.sd.gov/hunt-fish-license/. To purchase a license online, visit https://gfp.sd.gov/hunt-fish-license/.