Frequently Asked Questions

Can I bring my own dog?
Yes, you can bring your own dog but it must be under control without you shouting or continuously blowing a whistle, and the dog must work close (30 yards). If there are several dogs in the hunting party we will most likely limit the number of dogs used at one time.

Do you have kennels?
Our new kennel facility is generally full with our own dogs. Most hunters crate their dog in their vehicle. However, your dog can be crated inside a heated building for overnight stays during cold weather. Please call ahead if you need kennel or crate space. We'll do what we can to accomodate your dog.

Do you allow dogs in the lodge?
Absolutely not! No exceptions.

What kind of dogs do you have?
We always have both flushing and pointing breeds, primarily Labradors but we are trying to build a nice lineup of Drahthaars and Shorthairs.

Are there any other game birds to hunt besides pheasant?
In our area we do not have any other native species except pheasant. Upon request we can have chukar and huns available on the preserve.  We never plant any birds on the preserve. They are liberated far in advance of your hunt and are flight conditioned for a challenging shoot. NOTE: Non-native species need to be requested well ahead of time.

Can we shoot rabbits or coyotes?
Although your license allows you to take these animals, we don't allow it for the safety of the hunters and the dogs. We allow no shooting on the ground!

Are the hunts guided?
Yes, we always have a minimum of 2 guides per group that keep the hunt organized and under control.

How do I purchase my license? What does a license cost?
We are an authorized license agent and offer license sales at the lodge. Otherwise licenses can be purchased at most convenience stores or online at the South Dakota Game, Fish and Parks website. Non-resident 10 day small game licenses are $114, non-resident youth (ages 12-15) small game licenses are $27.00, and non-resident shooting preserve licenses are $37 for a one day, $67 for a 5 day and $87 for season long.

Do I need a hunter's safety card to purchase a license?
Not unless you are under the age of 16. Then, you need a previous license from the state of South Dakota or a hunter's safety card and a parent or guardian must sign the license.

Are the hunts safe?
We have a safety meeting before each hunt in which our safety rules are explained. The guides carefully watch gun handling and shooting. Any individual who does not follow these rules will be removed from the hunting party. Shooting glasses are recommended and available at the lodge.

Do I need blaze orange clothing?
State law does not require it but our policy does require you to wear blaze orange. We prefer that you wear at least a blaze orange cap. Shooting glasses are recommended and available at the lodge.

Do you have a place I can shoot targets?
Yes, we have a small sporting clays range set up.

What type of guns do you recommend?
We recommend 12 and 20 gauge guns. Preferably pump action or semi-autos. Double barrels are acceptable but quick multiple shot opportunities can be missed.

What ammunition can I shoot? Do I have to shoot steel?
You must shoot 4, 5 or 6 shot. In a 12 gauge, we recommend 2 3/4", 1 1/4 oz. of shot and 3 3/4 drams minimum powder charge. Three inch magnums are not recommended for a 12 gauge as they are much slower. In a 20 gauge, a 3" magnum is recommended. None of our hunts requires steel or non-toxic shot.

Do you have ammo available at the lodge?
Yes. We usually have a good supply of 12 and 20 gauge at good prices. Please let us know in advance if you intend to purchase ammo from us.

What type of cover do you hunt?
Early season hunts during the first week or two of hunting season will be a mix of cropland and grasses. Mid- and late-season hunts will be a mixture of cropland, CRP, trees, cattails, milo, corn and cane food plots.

Do you hunt private or public land?
We hunt only private land that we have exclusive hunting rights to.

Do you provide alcoholic beverages?
No, but you can bring your own. Drinking is allowed only after the hunt is over for the day. No drinking after 1:00 a.m. We do provide soft drinks.

Do I need to bring towels or food?
We provide all linens. You don't need to bring any towels or bedding. Most hunts include all meals.

Can I bring my children?
Each situation is different. We don't offer any babysitting services. If they are old enough to stay with you, it is fine in most cases. The minimum hunting age is 12, so if a parent feels the child can handle a firearm and is safe, we usually let them hunt.

How soon do I need to book the hunt?
The sooner the better. Early season hunts are booked up 10-12 months ahead of time.

How do we get our game home?
Bring a cooler along and we will pack it for you, or it can be shipped overnight for an extra fee. We also have 48 quart coolers for sale at the lodge. A 48 quart cooler will hold approximately 18-20 pheasants.

Do you offer taxidermy services?
Yes. We can take your trophy to a local taxidermist for you, and it will be shipped back to you when it's finished.

If you have other questions, please give us a call at 605-796-4264 or 605-350-6800, or e-mail us at coryf@feistners-hunting.com.