I am really interested in deer hunting in South Dakota next year. My plans would be a public land hunt, really would like a good area for Mule deer. I have no experience with South Dakota so I could use any help I could get. Do non-residents have to draw tags? if so what are the odds and prices for tags and when is the deadline? Thanks for any help you can give!
Brian

Here is the link to SD Game, Fish and Parks
http://gfp.sd.gov/
I believe that all deer tags here in SD are by lottery, by county. The last time I looked, I don't think non-residents could get a buck tag, but a perusal of the state sight should help.
Having moved here from Minnesota in 1989, I was quite surprised that in this state, a doe tag is easier to get than a buck tag.

You might want to consider a bow hunt I belive those tags are over the counter.

I see a lot of nice bucks when Iam out pheasant hunting.

Are crossbows legal?

Yes ,non-residents can apply for West River tags.you will likely has to pay trespass fees to hunt although there are some walk in areas you can hunt.Best to go to the SD Fish & Game site.

You can get a buck tag if you are lucky enough to draw a rifle tag. Bow tags are unlimited (i think?) and unless you are "handicapped" crossbows are not legal. I would seriously look for a landowner who will let you hunt because public lands get hunted pretty hard, especially in the western part of the state where antelope seasons have been open for a month. Good luck to you though, it is possible!

Thanks guys! Looks like I will try the draw, Any ideas what some landowners would charge for a trespass fee and areas you would recommend.

I live and ranch/outfit in the very northwest corner of the state if you wanted to pick my brain on licenses and whatnot.

Randy PM sent.