PIERRE, S.D. (KELO) -- The forecast looks good for another strong season of pheasant hunting in South Dakota this fall, according to a state Game, Fish and Parks Department official.

This comes after a 2024 harvest estimated at 1.3 million roosters, which was the highest in four years and once again the best in the nation.

A mild winter suggested that more hens were available for breeding this spring, and average temperatures and moisture during April and May produced good habitat for nesting and brood raising, said Alex Solem, a Huron-based senior biologist for the state Wildlife Division.

“We’re set for hopefully a very productive fall with good bird numbers," Solem said Friday. “We’re cautiously optimistic that we’re going to have a very good fall.”

His comments accompanied a presen

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