Blog

Get Ready for the Season: Gear and Dog Training Tips

By Dennis Foster | August 21, 2025

A great pheasant hunt takes two things: the right gear and a ready dog. From boots and vests built to last, to reliable Fiocchi shells, today’s upgrades make long days in the field more comfortable and effective. But gear alone won’t get the job done, your dog needs prep too. Just a few minutes of…

Pheasants Plus People = Cocks and Camaraderie

By Dennis Foster | July 29, 2025

In South Dakota, pheasant hunting isn’t about fancy gear, it’s about people, land, and the traditions that bring us together. In Spink County, where the “Rooster Revolution” began, October feels like a homecoming. Families and friends gather to chase birds, share stories, and enjoy small-town cafés and community events. At Dakota Pheasant Guide, our hunts…

The Roosters Are Ready — Are You?

By Dennis Foster | June 27, 2025

South Dakota is teeming with birds, and the stage is set for a pheasant season that could rival the best of the best. With strong hatches, timely rains, and low hunting pressure, all signs point to another unforgettable fall in the heart of pheasant country. From bumper crops of early roosters to once-in-a-generation bird numbers,…

Spring has sprung, sprouted and is now hatching!

By Dennis Foster | May 23, 2025

South Dakota’s pheasant season is shaping up to be legendary, thanks to strong spring hatches, smart conservation, and a bit of luck from Mother Nature. Reflect on decades in the field, the rich history of pheasant hunting in Spink County, and why this fall promises another banner year. From early broods to classic cover conditions,…

Pheasant Hunting Update for December

By Dennis Foster | December 5, 2024

Brought to you by Outfitter – Dakota Pheasant Guide  Late-Season is party time. The period between Thanksgiving and New Years is truly the Holidays for hunting big, mature, full feathered and yes, cagey Roosters. A light dusting of snow and some cold nights have the birds quickly grouping up and heading to classic cover. Meaning…

Your Bucket List Hunt Awaits with Dakota Pheasant Guide

By Dennis Foster | October 8, 2024

  This will be brief and to the point as we are scurrying to have everything ready for the influx of hunters who have heard the good word and are headed our way. All the stars seemed to line up and provided our birds with everything needed to produce an unrivalled number of Roosters. Read…

Dakota Pheasant Guide’s Feature in MidWest Outdoors

By Dennis Foster | September 4, 2024

Dakota Pheasant Guide has been featured in MidWest Outdoors with an insightful article, “2024 State of Pheasants in South Dakota,” where Dennis explores how this year’s mild winters, expanded CRP acres, and early nesting have all contributed to a thriving pheasant population. His in-depth analysis reveals why this season is shaping up to be one…

A little lengthy with lots of good news

By Dennis Foster | July 10, 2024

July 1st, 2024, State of Upland Birds in South Dakota Provided by: Dakota Pheasant Guide I can resoundingly report that the State of our State, is great… Sounds political, and even as attractive as our Governor may be, we are talking all natural, real deal plumage here. After all, the Chinese Ringneck Pheasant is our State…

New Upland Array Hunts: A Five Bird Bonanza

By Dennis Foster | June 13, 2024

This season, Dakota Pheasant Guide has expanded its hunting offerings with extensive leases on thousands of acres of prime prairie rangeland in West River, South Dakota. Pursue roosters among hills, bluffs, and buttes while also encountering strong populations of sharp-tailed grouse, greater prairie chickens, mourning doves, and Hungarian partridge. This upland extravaganza offers the unique…

Essential Gear Checklist

By Dennis Foster | May 14, 2024

Gear up for your next pheasant hunting adventure with our essential checklist, ensuring you’re fully prepared for a successful and enjoyable experience. From blaze orange hunting clothing and layered gear to quality shooting gloves and GPS trackers for your dogs, we’ve got all the details covered to make your trip unforgettable. Read more for the…

Mild = Wild

By Dennis Foster | March 22, 2024

Discover the latest insights on South Dakota pheasant hunting from an experienced outfitter and co-host of Focus Outdoors TV, Dennis Foster. Despite the region’s extreme weather, pheasants have shown remarkable resilience, leading to one of the best hunting seasons in recent memory. Read more about the incredible adaptability of these birds and what to expect…

Rooster Wrap Up

By Dennis Foster | February 12, 2024

A new season of pheasant hunting in South Dakota, promises unparalleled experiences for both returning and new hunters. After a phenomenal 2023 season, we’re excited about the favorable conditions for 2024, which could rival the peak years of the early 2000s. Book now to secure your spot and make memories that will last a lifetime!…