PIERRE — Retail businesses across South Dakota are preparing for hunters to hit the fields on Oct. 21, the opening day of the 2023 pheasant hunting season. Thousands of hunters from around the country come to our state each year to enjoy this unique and memorable tradition.

Local businesses are looking forward to welcoming more visitors to engage in some open-air fun.

“Communities around the state are ready for hunters, with many shops and stores working together to create special events,” said South Dakota Retailers Association Executive Director Nathan Sanderson. “Hunting season is a great opportunity to showcase our world-renowned hospitality and wide-open spaces while supporting our communities and local businesses.”

South Dakota businesses welcome the increase in foot-traffic, regardless of their niche, and many retailers actively serve the hunting and shooting community. Pheasant lodges, hunting outfitters, and hundreds of stores that sell guns, ammunition, licenses, hunting gear, and food look forward to our state’s fall hunting tradition. Each year they open their doors, and even their homes, to visitors nationwide.

Sal Roseland, owner of R&R Pheasant Hunting near Seneca and vice-president of the South Dakota Upland Outfitters Association, noted the importance of hunting season to South Dakota’s economy, including family farmers. “Pheasant hunting is a huge economic driver and has helped keep many family farmers and ranchers operating” he noted. “But more than that, it’s a great activity that gets families outdoors and enjoying our beautiful state.”

Pheasant season in South Dakota runs from Oct. 21 through Jan. 31.