Blog

When Is the Best Time to Chase Roosters?

By Dennis Foster | January 16, 2026

Out here, there’s no such thing as a bad time to chase roosters, especially when South Dakota winter decides to play nice. While January usually brings bitter cold and deep snow, this season has delivered rare, hunter-friendly conditions that have kept us smiling and the birds moving. Unseasonably warm temps, minimal snow, and excellent bird…

Partnering with Lakeside Products

By Dennis Foster | December 8, 2025

In the field, reliability isn’t optional it’s the foundation of every successful day. Long before the dogs hit the ground, we rely on gear that can handle early mornings, rough roads, and the demands of professional guiding. For us, that trust begins with the kennels we use to protect the dogs who work beside us.…

Help Your Dogs Perform Their Best with NutriSource

By Dennis Foster | November 13, 2025

Out here, every hunt starts long before the first rooster flushes. It begins with preparation, care, and respect for the dogs that make every day in the field possible. At Dakota Pheasant Guide, our dogs are more than teammates—they’re family. That’s why we trust NutriSource to keep them fueled, healthy, and ready for whatever the…

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…