1 minute read
Hunting
A HUNTER’S PARADISE
There aren’t too many places in the country that allow hunters to enjoy more than a 50 percent success rate every year while pursuing their quarry. But Black Hills hunters can do just that and have done so for the last decade.
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DEER
The Black Hills has both whitetail and mule deer populations with whitetails being more plentiful. At higher elevations, hunters are more likely to find mule deer, as wildlife managers with the South Dakota Game, Fish and Parks are trying to bolster their numbers.
ELK
Also found in the Black Hills is a coveted elk population. Open to residents only, the wait, at times, can be up to 10 years or more to draw a coveted tag. But when that envelope comes in the mail, hunters can enjoy a quality hunt pursuing large bulls and good numbers of cows. The herd, isolated from others in neighboring states, has genetics that produces trophy bulls quickly.
BIRDS
The GF&P also offers two seasons for turkey — fall and spring. The nearby waters offer waterfowl hunting opportunities for the resident and migrating ducks and geese. Grouse and pheasants can also be hunted north of Spearfish.
MOUNTAIN LION
The newest big game season in the Black Hills is for mountain lions. The first season began in 2005. That year, hunters surprised many wildlife officials and lion hunters when a subquota was reached in 13 days closing the season. Some officials thought if two lions were shot in the entire season, the state would have a successful hunt.
ANTELOPE
Just north of Spearfish is prime hunting for antelope. The area enjoyed near record numbers of antelope in the past, but several harsh winters have cut the population that is steadily rebuilding.
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SHOOTING RANGES:
For hunters and recreational shooters to hone their skills there are three ranges near Spearfish.
1Archery Range Located off Christianson Drive. 2 Rifle and Pistol Range Located just before you enter the mouth of Spearfish Canyon on Hwy 14A. Membership required.
3Trap and Sporting Clay Range
Located along Highway 85 heading north of Spearfish.
