Big Game Tags
South Dakota Big Game Tags
2026
Elk, moose, and black bear tag requirements in South Dakota — resident and nonresident fees, species availability, draw versus over-the-counter access, and official purchase links. South Dakota has elk in the Black Hills and coyote-country areas. Elk hunting is available by draw. Black bear are not present in huntable numbers. Moose are occasionally seen in the northeast but are not hunted.
Elk Available
Draw System
2026 Big Game Tag Quick Facts
Verified 2026
Elk Available?
Yes
Resident: $80
Bear Available?
No
No bear hunting season
Moose Available?
No
No moose population
Draw Required?
Yes
Some/all tags via draw system
Species & Fees
South Dakota Big Game Species Overview
Elk
Resident Tag$80.00
Nonresident Tag$445.00
Draw RequiredYes (some units)
Black Bear
Black bear hunting is not available in South Dakota or there is no established season.
Moose
Moose are not hunted in South Dakota. No established moose hunting season.
Elk by draw; limited tags
Step-by-Step
How to Get Your South Dakota Big Game Tag
Follow these steps to successfully obtain your South Dakota big game tag for the 2026 season.
1
Purchase Your Base Hunting License
A valid South Dakota hunting license is required before purchasing or applying for big game tags. Buy your license online at the South Dakota Game, Fish and Parks website, at a licensed sporting goods store, or from an authorized license agent.
2
Apply for Your Draw Tag
South Dakota uses a draw system for some or all big game tags. Apply during the application window (typically January–April) through South Dakota Game, Fish and Parks's online portal. Application fees are non-refundable if you don't draw. Check for preference/bonus point systems that may improve future odds.
Apply online →
3
Review Species-Specific Regulations
Study South Dakota Game, Fish and Parks's current big game regulations for your target species: legal shooting hours, legal weapons, unit boundaries, antler restrictions, and transport requirements. Regulations are available on the agency website and at license dealers. South Dakota hunting license required. Elk by draw only.
4
Tag & Report Your Harvest
Upon harvesting your big game animal, immediately fill out and attach your tag before moving the animal. Many states require big game harvest to be reported within 24–48 hours through an online or phone reporting system. Keep your license and tag on your person at all times while hunting and during transport.
Requirements
South Dakota Big Game Tag Requirements
South Dakota hunting license required. Elk by draw only.
Important Notes
South Dakota-Specific Big Game Information
Black Hills elk hunting is popular; tags are competitive in the draw.
Source: South Dakota Game, Fish and Parks (gfp.sd.gov).
Requirements verified 2026. Big game tag fees and draw deadlines change annually — always confirm directly with South Dakota Game, Fish and Parks before applying or purchasing.