Laws and Regulations

Please consult the South Dakota Game, Fish, and Parks Hunting, Fishing, and Boating Regulations website/handbooks for all state hunting and fishing laws. Make sure to purchase the proper hunting and fishing licenses needed for your trip to South Dakota.

Waterfowl Production Area Regulations
  • Vehicles, including snowmobiles are permitted only on designated roads and in designated parking areas. Travel on the ice is allowed for ice fishing. Vehicle access to the ice must be from a road right-of-way.
  • Motorized boats are allowed for wildlife-dependent activities. Boats may be launched from a trailer if those waters are accessible from a road right-of-way.
  • Collection of mature wild fruits, berries, above-ground portions of asparagus, and mushrooms are only allowed for personal daily non-commercial use.
  • Commercial activities are not allowed unless authorized through a special use permit issued by a Fish and Wildlife Service wildlife manager.
  • No overnight camping is allowed. This includes parking lot areas.
  • No fires
  • No littering or leaving remains of hunted animals.
  • For the enjoyment of others and to protect plant diversity, removing natural objects or destroying plants is not allowed. This excludes the gathering of dead plant materials for on-site hunting blind construction.
  • Riding or using horses for any purpose is not allowed. 
  • The use of dogs for hunting purposes is encouraged. Dogs for other approved purposes must be on a leash to prevent disturbance of wildlife. Dog training on WPA's is not allowed.
  • Non-toxic shot is required for waterfowl and upland game hunting. Lead bullets in rifles and muzzle loaders are allowed in accordance with State regulations.
  • For a complete list of regulations please refer to the South Dakota Waterfowl Production Areas Public Use Regulations.