Mitchell Prepares for the 2025 Pheasant Hunting Season Opener

Mitchell, SD – The highly anticipated non-resident pheasant hunting opener is set for Saturday, October 18, 2025, and Mitchell is once again ready to welcome hunters from across the country for an unforgettable weekend in the Corn Palace City.
 
In preparation for the opener, the Mitchell Area Chamber of Commerce will be at Cabela’s on Friday morning, October 17, greeting hunters with Mitchell promotional items and sharing helpful information about the area’s dining, lodging, and recreational opportunities. Later that evening, the community will gather at the iconic Corn Palace for the annual Pheasants Forever Banquet. This cherished event brings together hunters and conservationists for a night of food, raffles, and auctions.
 
According to the South Dakota Game, Fish & Parks 2025 Upland Outlook, pheasant numbers across the state remain strong heading into the season. The 2024 harvest was steady and successful, and thanks to favorable weather, healthy nesting conditions, and improved brood survival, hunters can look forward to a promising year in the field. With quality habitat across the region, 2025 is shaping up to be another exciting year for South Dakota’s signature outdoor tradition.
 
"We want every hunter who comes through Mitchell to feel at home," said Johanna Allen, Vice President of Relations, Communications, and Engagement. "Whether you’re stopping by Cabela’s, attending the banquet, or exploring our downtown, you’ll find a warm welcome and the kind of hospitality that makes South Dakota stand out."