What a South Dakota Nonresident Family Fishing License Covers
A nonresident family fishing license in South Dakota lets you fish in state waters if you live outside South Dakota, and it covers multiple household members on a single license. The license permits freshwater fishing for species like walleye, northern pike, bass, and panfish in South Dakota's lakes, rivers, and ponds. It does not cover saltwater fishing, trout in designated trout waters (which require a separate stamp), or any form of hunting.
The family license is designed for households where more than one person wants to fish. Each person listed on the license gets their own card, and all of them can fish at the same time under that single license. You do not need to be related to the other people on the license — you can add any household members or people you are traveling with.
South Dakota issues these licenses for a calendar year (January 1 through December 31), so the expiration date depends on when you purchase. A license bought in March expires on December 31 of that same year.
Key Takeaways
- A nonresident family license covers multiple people from the same household and costs less per person than buying individual licenses.
- You must purchase the license before you fish, and each person on the license receives their own card to carry while fishing.
- The license covers freshwater fishing only; trout waters and certain species require additional stamps purchased separately.
- South Dakota Game, Fish and Parks sells licenses online, by phone, and at authorized vendors like sporting goods stores and bait shops.
- License holders must follow all South Dakota fishing regulations, including daily catch limits, size restrictions, and seasonal closures for each species.
Who Can Buy a Nonresident Family License
You are nonresident if you do not hold a South Dakota driver's license or state ID, or if you have not lived in South Dakota for at least 14 consecutive days immediately before purchasing the license. Visitors, seasonal residents, and people from other states all fall into this category.
There is no age minimum to be listed on a family license. Children of any age can fish under the license as long as they are part of your household or traveling group. However, anyone age 16 or older who fishes alone or separately from the license holder should have their own license.
The license holder (the person who purchases it) must be at least 16 years old. That person is responsible for ensuring everyone on the license follows South Dakota fishing rules.
How to Purchase and What It Costs
South Dakota Game, Fish and Parks sells nonresident family licenses through three channels: online at the state's official licensing website, by phone at the Game, Fish and Parks office, or in person at authorized vendors. Authorized vendors include sporting goods retailers, bait and tackle shops, and some convenience stores in fishing areas. The vendor network changes, so call ahead if you are looking for a specific location.
The cost varies depending on how many people you add to the license and the time of year you purchase. South Dakota does not offer a reduced rate for purchasing partway through the year — you pay the full annual price regardless of when you buy. Prices are set by the state legislature and change infrequently, so contact Game, Fish and Parks directly for current rates before you plan your trip.
When you purchase online, you receive your license immediately as a printable PDF. You must print it before you fish. If you buy in person or by phone, the vendor or office will provide your cards on the spot or mail them to you, depending on the method. Do not fish until you have the physical license cards in hand.
What You Must Carry While Fishing
Each person on the license receives an individual license card with their name and the license number. You must carry your card with you at all times while fishing — it is your proof that you are licensed. A printed copy of the online license also counts as proof if you do not yet have the physical card.
South Dakota conservation officers check licenses during routine patrols and at boat ramps. If you cannot produce your card, you may be cited for fishing without a license, even if you purchased one. Keep the card in a waterproof holder or bag, especially if you are fishing from a boat.
You should also carry a copy of the current South Dakota fishing regulations. The state publishes these annually, and they cover daily catch limits, minimum and maximum size restrictions, and seasonal closures. Regulations vary by species and by water body, so knowing the rules for where you plan to fish prevents accidental violations.
Trout Waters and Additional Stamps
South Dakota's designated trout waters — including some lakes and stretches of rivers — require a separate trout stamp in addition to your family fishing license. The stamp is inexpensive and sold at the same vendors where you buy your license. Without the stamp, you cannot legally keep trout from those waters, even if you have a valid fishing license.
Check the South Dakota Game, Fish and Parks website or call their office to find out which waters in your fishing area are designated trout waters. Some popular trout fisheries include Angostura Reservoir and sections of the Missouri River, but the list changes based on stocking and management decisions.
If you plan to fish for walleye, pike, bass, or panfish only, you do not need the trout stamp. The family license covers those species in all open freshwater areas.
Fishing Seasons and Regulations
South Dakota's fishing seasons vary by species and by water body. Walleye, northern pike, and most panfish have open seasons year-round in most lakes and rivers, but some waters close during specific months for spawning protection. Bass seasons are more restricted and typically run from mid-May through December, though this varies by location.
Daily catch limits (the number of fish you can keep per day) and size restrictions (minimum and maximum lengths) differ for each species and sometimes by water. For example, walleye might have a limit of five fish with a 15-inch minimum in one lake and a different limit in another. These rules exist to protect fish populations and maintain healthy fisheries.
The state publishes a detailed fishing guide each year with season dates, limits, and size restrictions for every major water body. You can download it free from the Game, Fish and Parks website or pick up a printed copy at license vendors. Reading this guide before you fish is the best way to avoid unintentional violations.
Where to Fish in South Dakota
South Dakota has over 2,000 lakes and 1,000 miles of fishable rivers and streams. Popular destinations for nonresident families include Oahe Reservoir (walleye and pike), Angostura Reservoir (trout and walleye), and the Missouri River (walleye, pike, and catfish). Many state parks and public access areas offer boat ramps, parking, and facilities for families.
Access rules vary by location. Some waters are open to the public with free access; others require a small day-use fee or are managed by specific agencies. The Game, Fish and Parks website lists public access points and their amenities. If you are planning to fish a specific lake or river, contact the local Game, Fish and Parks office or a nearby bait shop — they can tell you about current conditions, what fish are biting, and any recent regulation changes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I fish in another state with a South Dakota nonresident license?
No. A South Dakota license is valid only in South Dakota. If you travel to another state, you must purchase that state's nonresident license. Each state manages its own fishing licenses and does not recognize licenses from other states.
Do I need a separate license for each person, or does one family license cover everyone?
One family license covers all the people you add to it. Each person gets their own card, but you purchase and renew a single license. This is cheaper than buying individual licenses if you have multiple household members fishing.
What happens if I fish without a license or lose my license card?
Fishing without a valid license is a violation of South Dakota law and can result in a citation and fine. If you lose your card, contact Game, Fish and Parks immediately to request a replacement. Do not fish until you have a replacement card or a printed copy of your online license.
Can I add or remove people from my family license after I purchase it?
No. The family license is fixed at the time of purchase. If you need to add someone, you must purchase a new license or buy them an individual license. Contact Game, Fish and Parks to ask about your specific situation.
Is there a discount if I buy the license partway through the year?
No. South Dakota charges the full annual price regardless of when you purchase during the calendar year. The license expires on December 31, so buying in November costs the same as buying in January.