Trapping License
South Dakota Trapping
License 2026
Complete guide to trapping licenses in South Dakota - resident and nonresident fees, trap check hours, regulated species, pelt reporting requirements, and bobcat or otter permit rules. South Dakota provides good trapping for beaver, muskrat, mink, fox, and coyote across grassland and riparian habitats. Coyotes can be trapped year-round. The 36-hour trap check rule applies to most trap types.
36-Hour Trap Check
Separate From Hunting License
2026 Trapping License Quick Facts
Verified 2026
Resident Fee
$10.00
Annual license
Nonresident Fee
$40.00
Annual license
Trap Check
36h
Max hours between checks
Junior Fee
-
See agency for youth rates
License Details
South Dakota Trapping License Requirements
South Dakota requires a valid trapping license to trap furbearing animals. Review all requirements before setting traps.
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| Resident Fee | $10.00 |
| Nonresident Fee | $40.00 |
| Separate From Hunting License | Yes - separate purchase required |
| Trapper Education Required | Not required |
| Trap Check Requirement | Every 36 hours |
| Trap Tagging Required | Not required |
| Pelt Reporting Required | Not required |
| Bobcat Permit Required | Not required |
| Otter Permit Required | Not required |
| Coyote Trapping | Year-round allowed |
| Trap Type Restrictions | Standard foothold and body-gripping traps allowed. No specific jaw spread restrictions statewide. |
Regulated Species
Trappable Species in South Dakota
The following furbearing species may be legally trapped in South Dakota with the appropriate license and during open seasons. Some species may require additional permits.
Season & Limits
South Dakota Trapping Season Dates & Bag Limits
Season Dates
mink: Nov 1 - Jan 31
beaver: Nov 1 - Apr 30
coyote: Year-round
Bag Limits
coyote: No limit
Public Land Trapping
Trapping on Public Land in South Dakota
Trapping allowed on South Dakota GFP wildlife areas and most state land. National Grasslands allow trapping under BLM rules. Badlands National Park is closed.
Important Notes
South Dakota-Specific Trapping Rules
South Dakota is an affordable destination for trappers targeting prairie and riparian furbearers. River systems including the Big Sioux, James, and Missouri Rivers support good beaver and mink populations. Coyote trapping is popular in the western Black Hills region.
Source: South Dakota Game, Fish and Parks (gfp.sd.gov).
Requirements verified 2026. Always confirm current fees, seasons, and permit requirements directly with the agency before trapping.