Hunting & Fishing

Welcome hunters and fisherman from near and far! 

De Smet is a favorite annual retreat for hunters and fishermen from across the Hunting Photonation and is one of South Dakota’s most popular hunting and fishing destinations. It is often called “Pheasant Country”. Pheasants, ducks, geese and deer are popular game that can be hunted in the area. Pheasant season traditionally opens on the third Saturday in October. Each spring and fall the skies are filled with thousands of snow, blue and Canada geese as they pass through on their annual seasonal migration. Every pond, slough and lake becomes a resting spot for the ducks and geese.

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Join us for the 3rd Annual Rooster Rush event! 

Mark your calendar for October 28 for our 3rd Annual Rooster Rush event which is a FREE family event!

There will be kid's activities like an obstacle course bouncy house, pumpkin painting, lollipop tree, possible face painting, AND MORE!

There will be vendors for adults to visit with for hunting and fishing, possibly more! 

And TWO food trucks -- so come hungry! 

We are going to be adding fun events to this closer to the event so stay tuned. Hope to see you and your family there!

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For the fishing enthusiasts, Lake Thompson is just eight miles from De Smet. It is well-liked for its beautiful campground, pleasant amenities, great fishing and large water area. It is full of Northern Pike, Walleye, Smallmouth Bass, Perch and Crappies. Ice fishing is a popular winter pastime here as well. A variety of stores offer hunting and fishing gear including Fields Fish and Game!

 There are also hunting and fishing guide services available. Hunting and fishing licenses can be purchased at the two gas stations on Highway 14 - The Mainstop and The Cowboy, as well as Fields Fish & Game along side the rest of your hunting and fishing needs!

Download "Welcome Hunters" Brochure (PDF)

For a complete list of regulations and fees, refer to www.gfp.sd.gov or contact the SD Department of Game, Fish & Parks district office in Huron 605-353-7155.