For more than a century, South Dakotans and their guests have shared in a time-honored tradition built around pheasants, friendship, and fall on the prairie. As crisp October air settles in, opening weekend of pheasant season marks more than just the start of a hunt — it’s a homecoming of sorts, a celebration that brings families, friends, and visitors together to enjoy the season’s sights, sounds, and stories.
That spirit of tradition lives on in the pages of the True Dakotan. For decades, this newspaper has celebrated the season with a special hunting issue and continues on with True Dakotan Outdoors, included in this week’s issue.
Inside, readers will find hunting-specific content and feature stories that capture the heart of the pheasant season, along with highlights of local shopping, dining, special events, and recreation. It’s our way of showcasing all that our communities have to offer—welcoming guests and reminding locals of the many ways to enjoy autumn on the prairie.
The True Dakotan Outdoors guide isn’t just a roadmap to local services; it’s an invitation to slow down, explore, and make memories. Whether you’re visiting for the hunt or calling this place home, we hope these pages help you discover new connections, celebrate old traditions, and make the most of South Dakota’s season-long celebration.
SEASON OPENER EVENTS
The 2025 pheasant season kicks off on Saturday, October 18 at 10 a.m.
2025 Pheasants Forever Annual Banquet
The Pheasants Forever annual banquet returns to Wessington Springs on Friday, October 17. The much-loved event will be held at the WS Elementary School gymnasium.
FFA Opener Breakfast October 18 from 7 - 10 a.m.
Fuel up with a stick-to-your-ribs biscuits and gravy breakfast made by FFA members at the WS Fire Hall this Saturday from 7 - 10 a.m.
Craft Fair Returns October 18
The show is slated for October 18 at the Rec Center at the elementary school. The admission-free fair will open at 10 a.m. and close at 3 p.m.
Buffalo County Fall Ball Saturday, October 18
Enjoy a free will supper to benefit the Gann Valley Fire Department along with a dance featuring live music from the South Hand Band at the Gann Valley Fire Hall Saturday, October 18 starting at 6 p.m. No coolers allowed.
Annual Ducks Unlimited Banquet October 26
Mark your calendar for the Ducks Unlimited annual banquet, slated for Saturday, October 25 at the Jerauld County 4-H Building in Wessington Springs.