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South Dakota Bison Hunting

South Dakota Bison 2026

The bison herd on Custer State Park is doing really well. Both residents and non-residents may apply for bison hunts. Hunting opportunities are broken down into two categories: trophy bull and non-trophy bison. Hunting bison within Custer State Park is highly regulated. Bison taken in Custer State Park are eligible for Boone and Crockett’s record book program. Many top-scoring bison in the B&C record book come from this herd in South Dakota. Archery equipment is now allowed for all bison hunts.

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Hunters are required to schedule and hunt with a park-provided guide for all bison hunts at no additional charge. Custer State Park will also provide field handling and may provide transportation of the carcass. The guide will indicate which animals are eligible and will approve the location to harvest. Applications will be available online for all bison hunts in July. Group applications are not allowed for trophy bull hunts. You must have 2 or more preference points to be considered in the draw.

One of our Advisors’ sons drew the non-trophy bull hunt last season. He enjoyed a memorable hunt and successfully harvested an impressive bull with his bow. The operations and herd managers overseeing the bison program are outstanding people who have done an excellent job managing the herd and creating a quality hunting opportunity. For anyone considering applying, we strongly recommend it. The hunt is very manageable from a physical standpoint, and it’s been consistently described as a rewarding and unforgettable hunt by all previous Huntin’ Fool members who were fortunate enough to draw the tag.

Self Guided DIY South Dakota Bison Hunts

For access to all of our research and data we've collected over the last 20+ years, then join today and access the best research tools for hunting Bison in South Dakota including Draw Odds, Consultations and much more. Go on more hunts with better information!

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Application Dates for Bison in South Dakota

The Application Deadline for Bison in South Dakota is August 6th, 2026.

Our online/print magazine has everything in one location: Application info, draw details and odds, fees, hunter requirements, point structure, age restrictions, youth information, weapon restrictions, other tag opportunities, hunt planning and much more. If you would like access to all of our research join today!

South Dakota Bison Hunting

Non-Resident South Dakota Bison Hunting Fees

2026 South Dakota Non-Resident Fees
Trophy Bison $6,506
Non-Trophy Bison $3,256

 

South Dakota Bison Hunting Articles from Huntin' Fool Magazine


Additional Resources

At Huntin' Fool, we provide a variety of resources for you to plan ahead! From applying for tags, researching draw odds, hunt consultations, and more, we have you covered!

Apply for License Applications
Schedule a Hunt Consultations
Research Draw Odds
Research Application Deadlines
Get Your Magazine!

 

Your Huntin' Fool Membership

A Huntin' Fool Membership is the one-stop shop! For $150 a year, get unlimited access to our Hunt Advisor Team and our full DIY tool set!

Unlimited 1-1 Draw Consultations. Learn More
> Digital Tools. Draw Odds, Harvest Statistics & Unit Breakdowns
Previous Tag Holder List- Contact HF Members who recently hunted the unit. Learn More.
> Exclusive Content. Mastering the Draw and How to Apply
> Monthly Magazine. Unit breakdowns and analysis