American Bison

SD American Bison Hunting Guide

SDBig Game
Bison bisonSouth DakotaBig Game

Also known as: Buffalo, American buffalo

A bison is a large bovine in the genus Bison within the tribe Bovini. Two extant and numerous extinct species are recognised.

Hunting Season

Custer State Park Trophy: Nov 16 - Jan 15; Non-trophy: Oct 5 - Nov 13. Drawing and sales window. Apply through SD GFP.

Bag Limit: 1 bison per license (drawing permit for Custer State Park). Limited opportunity.
Size Limit: Trophy bull permits require minimum horn and age criteria.

Frequently Asked Questions

Regulations for hunting American Bison in South Dakota

American bison hunting in South Dakota is primarily available through Custer State Park managed hunts. Trophy bull season runs Nov 16-Jan 15, and non-trophy (cow/yearling) season runs Oct 5-Nov 13. These are highly sought-after permits obtained through drawing or auction. Wild bison hunting opportunities outside of Custer State Park are extremely limited.

When is American Bison hunting season in South Dakota?

Custer State Park Trophy: Nov 16 - Jan 15; Non-trophy: Oct 5 - Nov 13. Drawing and sales window. Apply through SD GFP.

What is the bag limit for American Bison in South Dakota?

1 bison per license (drawing permit for Custer State Park). Limited opportunity.

What's another name for American Bison?

American Bison is also known as Buffalo, American buffalo in South Dakota.

References

State Category Directory Subcategory Content Source
South Dakota Hunting Regulations Season Dates Custer State Park Trophy: Nov 16 - Jan 15; Non-trophy: Oct 5 - Nov 13. Drawing and sales window. Apply through SD GFP. Link
South Dakota Hunting Regulations Regulations American bison hunting in South Dakota is primarily available through Custer State Park managed hunts. Trophy bull seaso Link