Waubay WMD is very popular with local pheasant and deer hunters, but many overlook the many waterfowl opportunities found here. About 200 waterfowl production areas (WPAs) provide 40,000 acres of public hunting in six counties located in the northeast corner of South Dakota. White-tailed deer and pheasant can often be found in the thick cattail cover around the marshes, while good numbers of ducks and geese use the wetland areas. Most nonresident hunters head for the Missouri River area for their South Dakota waterfowl hunt, ignoring the eastern part of the state. Hunters who choose Waubay WMD will find a good mix of puddle ducks as well as Canada geese, without the hunting pressure that can characterize the western part of the state.
Hunting is an important wildlife management tool that we recognize as a healthy, traditional outdoor pastime, deeply rooted in America’s heritage. Hunting can instill a unique understanding and appreciation of wildlife, their behavior, and their habitat needs. Hunting and trapping do not pose a threat to wildlife populations, and in some instances are necessary for sound wildlife management. For example, because their natural predators are gone, deer populations will often grow too large for the available habitat to support.
Hunting licenses for WPAs and other public lands are issued through the South Dakota Department of Game, Fish & Parks. For more information contact the Refuge Manager or SD Game, Fish & Parks.
