South Dakota


During the South Dakota Muzzleloader Hunting Season, In seasons restricted to muzzleloading rifles, telescopic sights are not allowed. Telescopic sights are those sights that utilize magnification. Muzzleloading pistols are not legal. No person may hunt, shoot, shoot at, wound, kill, or pursue any big game animal with any muzzle loading rifle which is less than .44 caliber. South Dakota is a great state for muzzleloader hunting.

South Dakota Muzzleloader Hunting Season 2023-2024

Deer Season – Muzzleloader | 2023Season Dates
Start: Dec 1, 2023
End: Jan 1, 2024
Online Application Dates
Start: May 30, 2023
End: Jun 14, 2023
Deer Season – Muzzleloader Antlerless Only Whitetail | 2023Season Dates
Start: Dec 1, 2023
End: Jan 1, 2024
Updated for 2023-2024

South Dakota Muzzleloader Hunting Season Regulations

MUZZLELOADER DEER – FOR MORE INFORMATION CLICK HERE

A statewide deer hunting season specifically for the use of primitive muzzleloader firearms traditionally opens December 1.

A limited number of “any deer” licenses are available to residents only.

“Antlerless whitetail deer” permits are available to both residents and nonresidents and sold through the end of the season.

Special Requirements:

  • Hunters must wear fluorescent orange.
  • Telescopic sights up to 1X may be used.
  • Smokeless powder is not allowed during muzzleloading seasons.

Restrictions:

  • In seasons restricted to muzzleloading rifles, no telescopic sights may be used. Telescopic sights are those sights that utilize magnification.

This information is subject to change, for more information visit: http://gfp.sd.gov/


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