South Dakota is the greatest state to pheasant hunt and upland bird hunting enthusiasts will get to enjoy this year’s National Pheasant Fest and Quail Classic in Sioux Falls March 1-3. Each year, this event is hosted by Pheasants Forever and Quail Forever and is a great way to learn more about habitat, raise money for conservation, and celebrate another terrific pheasant season.
This year the event returns to South Dakota for the first time since 2018. The festivities begin Thursday, February 29, with the first-ever Concert for Conservation. This event will take place at the Washington Pavilion at 7:30 p.m. and feature Trampled by Turtles. All proceeds from this concert go directly to Pheasants Forever and Quail Forever.
Following this event begins the traditional National Pheasant Fest and Quail Classic at the Denny Sanford Premier Center, with the annual Bird Dog Parade kicking off the event at 11 a.m. before the doors open at noon on Friday. Complete show hours include:
- Friday, March 1: 12 p.m.-7 p.m.
- Saturday, March 2: 9 a.m.-6 p.m.
- Sunday, March 3: 9 a.m.-4 p.m.
The entire show has something for everyone, with thousands of exhibitors, seminars, Youth Village, and Habitat Help Desk.
Individuals looking to learn more about conservation, upland bird hunting, and dog training will find numerous educational opportunities on the Seminar Stages. Seminar Stages include:
- Public Lands Pavilion,
- Bird Dog Stage,
- Path to the Uplands Stage; and,
- Habitat Stage.
Individuals looking to bring the whole family can find plenty of activities in the Youth Village, which features a variety of activities including a BB gun range, inflatable archery range, and additional hands-on programs and games.
Landowners who are interested in enhancing the habitat on their property will also find everything they need at the Habitat Help Desk. This gives landowners the opportunity to visit with biologists to find the best solutions for their specific property and guidance on local, state, and federal programs they may be eligible for.
Learn More About National Pheasant Fest and Quail Classic
Individuals looking to learn more about National Pheasant Fest and Quail Classic, as well as Pheasants Forever, can find complete details in the GFP Podcast and Blast. Bob St. Pierre and Chris Kallis join the show to discuss late-season pheasant hunting and the upcoming event.
A complete schedule, list of exhibitors, seminar topics, and more can be found on the Pheasants Forever website.
Win a Free Trip with Lip Ripper Fishing
Individuals attending National Pheasant Fest and Quail Classic can stop by the Visit Pierre booth to enter for their chance to win a free fishing trip with Lip Ripper Fishing, two-night stay at Ramkota Hotel, and $200 in Pierre Pride Dollars.