Facility Activities

Sand Lake Wetland Management District offers a variety of habitats on Waterfowl Production Areas with opportunities for wildlife observation, bird watching, education, photography, hunting, trapping & fishing. 

Hunting

Including portions of eight counties, Sand Lake WMD covers more area than any other WMD in the country. Hunters can access 162 waterfowl production areas (WPAs) totaling 45,000 acres in northeast South Dakota. This important public land offers good hunting for many species, but it is best known...

Fishing

The wetland management district staff manages 162 waterfowl production areas totaling 45,000 acres. A number of waterfowl production areas around the district hold quality fishing opportunities for walleye, pike, perch, bluegill, bass and other species of fish. Fishing season is in accordance...

Birding
From bald eagles to spoonbills, from condors to puffins, birds abound on national wildlife refuges. Refuges provide places for birds to nest, rest, feed and breed making them world-renown for their birding opportunities.
Photography
Whether you wield a smartphone or a zoom lens, you’ll find photo-worthy subjects at national wildlife refuges and national fish hatcheries. Wildlife photography is a priority public use on national wildlife refuges, so you’ll find wildlife drives and blinds and overlooks to help you get the images you’re after.
Trapping
Trapping is carefully managed to ensure safety and the sustainability of wildlife populations. Permitted trapping on refuges typically mirrors state regulations, and trappers who access refuge lands for recreation must possess state licenses and follow state regulations as well as permit stipulations.