Year-specific page: This article refers to 2024 licensing details. Confirm current fees, dates, and eligibility rules with the relevant agency before relying on older figures.

Why You Need a Fishing License in South Dakota

A fishing license is mandatory for anyone 16 years or older who wants to fish in South Dakota’s waters. The revenue generated from fishing license sales directly supports:

  • Fisheries management
    • Habitat development
    • Conservation education
    • Maintaining South Dakota’s fishing resources for future generations

South Dakota Fishing License Basics

Who Needs a Fishing License in SD?

All anglers aged 16 and above must possess a valid South Dakota fishing license to fish in the state’s waters. Residents under 18 and non-residents under 16 fishing with a licensed adult family member are exempt from needing an additional license.

Fishing License Types & Costs

South Dakota offers several types of fishing licenses with varying costs for residents and non-residents. Here’s a breakdown of the available options:

Resident Fishing License Costs

  • Annual Fishing License: $28
  • Senior Annual Fishing License (65+): $12
  • 1-Day Fishing License: $8
  • Combination License (Fishing + Small Game): $55
  • Senior Combination License (65+): $40

Non-Resident Fishing License Costs

  • Annual Fishing License: $67
  • Family Fishing License: $67 (covers the license holder, their spouse, and children under 16)
  • 1-Day Fishing License: $16
  • 3-Day Fishing License: $37
  • Youth Annual Fishing License (under 16): $25

Resident vs. Non-Resident Licenses

South Dakota distinguishes between resident and non-resident fishing licenses. To qualify for a resident license, you must meet one of the following criteria:

  • Have lived in South Dakota for at least 90 consecutive days
    • Be a full-time student at a South Dakota educational institution
    • Be an active duty military personnel stationed in South Dakota

Non-residents are those who do not meet the above criteria.

How to Get a South Dakota Fishing License

Online Purchase

The most convenient way to purchase a South Dakota fishing license is through the official South Dakota Game, Fish and Parks (GFP) website. Follow these steps:

  1. Visit the GFP licensing page at https://gfp.sd.gov/hunt-fish-license/
  2. Click on “Purchase/Apply” and log in or create a new account
  3. Select the appropriate fishing license type
  4. Provide the required personal information and payment details (Visa, MasterCard, or American Express)
  5. Print your license or save a digital copy on your mobile device

Offline Purchase Locations

You can also buy fishing licenses in person at various locations across South Dakota, including:

  • GFP offices
    • Sporting goods stores
    • Bait and tackle shops
    • Select convenience stores

To find a license vendor near you, use the GFP’s vendor search tool at https://gfp.sd.gov/licenses/general-hunt-fish/license-agents.aspx.

Required Information

When purchasing a fishing license, you’ll need to provide:

  • Personal information (name, address, date of birth)
    • Social Security Number (for residents only)
    • Driver’s license or state ID number
    • Payment information (credit card or cash for in-person purchases)

South Dakota Fishing License FAQs

Is There a Husband-Wife Fishing License?

South Dakota does not offer a specific husband-wife fishing license. However, non-residents can purchase a family fishing license for $67, which covers the license holder, their spouse, and children under 16.

What Are the Age Requirements?

  • Residents: Those under 18 do not need a license to fish.
  • Non-Residents: Those under 16 fishing with a licensed adult family member do not need an additional license, but their catch must be included in the daily limit of the licensed adult.

How Long Is a Fishing License Valid?

The validity of a South Dakota fishing license depends on the type purchased:

  • Annual Licenses: Valid from the date of purchase through December 31 of the same year.
    • Temporary Licenses (1-Day, 3-Day): Valid for the specified number of consecutive days from the start date selected at the time of purchase.

Do I Need a License for Catch-and-Release?

Yes, a fishing license is required even if you plan to practice catch-and-release fishing. The only exceptions are for residents under 18 and non-residents under 16 fishing with a licensed adult family member.