Pheasant numbers remain strong after opening weekend while state officials say camping numbers have increased over 20%.
Traditional Pheasant season kicked off on Oct. 19 and hunters have been reporting excellent bird numbers, according to state Wildlife Division Director Tom Kirschenmann. He said pheasant numbers are solid across the state since opening weekend.
“In region one, which is our western South Dakota region, basically the comments where that things were good. There is a high hunter satisfaction in places that we would consider pheasant hunting areas in western South Dakota, folks did extremely well. They were finding good bird numbers, they were excited. I would also share with you, one common theme, all the way across the state that we heard multiple comments of and our conservation officers heard, it was extremely dry conditions,” said Kirschenmann.
Kevin Robling is the Game, Fish, and Parks Secretary. He said he is excited to see how much better pheasant season will get.
“Just to make sure everyone is aware, that pheasant season is just getting started. The best months are ahead of us. Thank you for articulating that. Crop harvest is out, we welcome everyone to South Dakota. Yes, it has been a great hunting season thus far, and its only going to get better,” said Robling.
Also reported to the commission was a significant increase in camping rentals compared to last year.
State officials said camping numbers are over 20% higher than last year’s figures. This ultimately affects how much money the department has to provide rehabilitation to state parks.
The South Dakota Parks and Wildlife Foundation also announced a five-year campaign called “Great Places Don’t Just Happen.”
This initiative is designed to raise $11 million dollars for park improvements in regions where money is raised.
