North Dakota offers some of the best hunting opportunities in the United States, with vast expanses of pristine wilderness and abundant wildlife. From waterfowl to big game, the state’s diverse ecosystems provide ideal habitats for a wide range of species sought after by hunters. Many sportsmen and women turn to professional outfitters to enhance their hunting experiences in this rugged northern state.
Reputable hunting outfitters in North Dakota provide essential services that can significantly increase a hunter’s chances of success. These outfitters offer local expertise, access to prime hunting grounds, and logistical support that allows hunters to focus on their pursuit. With options ranging from guided hunts to fully-equipped lodges, outfitters cater to various preferences and skill levels, ensuring memorable experiences for both novice and seasoned hunters alike.
1) Double XL Outfitters
Double XL Trophy Whitetails offers guided hunting experiences in northern Minnesota. The outfitter specializes in trophy whitetail deer hunts, providing access to some of the largest bucks in the region.
The ranch prides itself on delivering memorable hunting adventures. They cater to both experienced hunters and newcomers, ensuring each guest has an opportunity to pursue impressive whitetails.
All hunts at Double XL Trophy Whitetails are fully guided. This approach helps maximize hunters’ chances of success and enhances the overall experience. The guides possess in-depth knowledge of the local terrain and deer behavior.
The outfitter has received positive feedback from clients. One testimonial highlights the quality of their youth hunts, praising the experience as exceptional for a young hunter’s first deer hunt.
Double XL Trophy Whitetails aims to turn hunting dreams into reality. They focus on providing high-quality hunts in a setting known for producing substantial whitetail deer.
Address: Northern Minnesota (specific location not provided)
Contact details: Not available in the search results
Website: Not provided in the search results
2) Deadwood Outfitters
Deadwood Outfitters offers a unique hunting experience in the Black Hills of South Dakota. This family-run operation has a rich history rooted in the region’s outdoor traditions.
The Carter family built Deadwood Outfitters from humble beginnings, starting with a tent city and expanding through hard work and passion. Tom and Dawn Carter, the current owners, bring extensive local knowledge to their guided hunts.
Hunters can pursue deer, turkey, and elk in the picturesque Black Hills. The outfitter’s guides are experienced outdoorsmen with intimate knowledge of the area’s terrain and wildlife patterns.
After a day of hunting, guests can enjoy the nearby town of Deadwood’s nightlife and attractions. This combination of rugged outdoor adventure and local entertainment sets Deadwood Outfitters apart.
The outfitter provides accommodations, though specific details about their lodging are not available in the provided information. Interested hunters should contact Deadwood Outfitters directly for more details on their services and available hunts.
Deadwood Outfitters
Address: Not provided
Contact: Not provided
Website: Not provided
3) Prairie Sky Ranch
Prairie Sky Ranch offers diverse hunting experiences in South Dakota. The ranch provides opportunities for pheasant, buffalo, turkey, and waterfowl hunting throughout the year.
Pheasant hunting at Prairie Sky is known for its abundance of birds. Hunters can enjoy pursuing pheasants and sharptail grouse in increasing numbers each season.
The ranch’s buffalo hunts are available year-round. Prairie Sky maintains a registered bison herd and offers USDA inspected bison meat.
Turkey hunting is another popular option at Prairie Sky. The ranch boasts high success rates for spring turkey hunts, with limited tags available.
Waterfowl hunting starts in September, allowing guests to experience South Dakota’s prime waterfowl habitat without crowding from other hunters.
Prairie Sky Ranch prides itself on exceptional hospitality and service. Guests can stay in private cabins and customize their hunting experiences to suit their preferences.
Prairie Sky Ranch
Address: Veblen, SD
Contact: 800-587-2411
Website: Not provided in search results
4) Rolling Plains Adventures
Rolling Plains Adventures offers premier hunting experiences in North Dakota. Located near the Missouri River, this outfitter has been operating since 2000 on land homesteaded in 1882.
The property spans 17,000 acres of prime hunting terrain. Guests can pursue whitetail deer, pheasants, and buffalo across rolling hills and rugged landscapes.
Whitetail deer hunts are a specialty, with high chances of encountering trophy-class bucks. Archery hunters enjoy particularly good success rates for large whitetails.
Buffalo hunts provide a unique opportunity to follow in the footsteps of Native Americans who once pursued these iconic animals in the same area. The outfitter offers fair chase hunts on 6,000 acres.
The professional staff aims to create a welcoming, family-like atmosphere for guests while delivering memorable hunting adventures.
Rolling Plains Adventures
24401 62nd Ave. S.E.
McKenzie, ND 58872
Phone: (701) 367-3737
Email: [email protected]
Website: www.rollingplainsadv.com
5) Oak Creek Outfitters
Oak Creek Outfitters offers guided hunts in South Dakota for a variety of game. Their hunting options include whitetail and mule deer, as well as Merriam turkey.
For deer hunters, Oak Creek provides rifle, muzzleloader, and archery hunts. Turkey enthusiasts can choose between shotgun and archery hunts.
The outfitter also specializes in prairie dog hunting, which they claim is among the best in South Dakota. Hunters use rifles for this activity.
Oak Creek Outfitters aims to provide memorable experiences for their clients. They focus on delivering outstanding service across their hunting offerings.
Address: Not available
Contact: Not available
Website: http://www.oakcreekhunting.com/
6) Lost Creek Outfitters
Lost Creek Outfitters offers hunting experiences in Wyoming, not North Dakota. They specialize in archery hunting for mature bull elk in their area.
The outfitter is located near Cody, Wyoming, providing easy access to multiple hunting areas. Their lodging can accommodate 6-8 hunters at a time.
Lost Creek Outfitters emphasizes determination and perseverance when hunting conditions become challenging. They strive to give clients the best opportunity for a successful hunt.
Their property sits at the base of Jim Mountain along Jim Creek, about 17 miles from Cody. This location puts hunters close to prime hunting grounds.
The outfitter is committed to excellence in providing guided hunting trips. They focus on creating optimal opportunities for hunters to harvest mature bulls.
Address: 27 Jim Mountain Drive, Cody, Wyoming 82414
Phone: Jimmy 307-259-7072, Jozie 307-272-2045
7) Dakota Winds Outfitters
Dakota Winds Hunting stands out as one of North Dakota’s premier pheasant hunting outfitters. They offer access to over 10,000 acres of prime hunting habitat in the southwestern part of the state.
The vast expanse of rolling prairies provides an ideal environment for wild game, particularly pheasants. Hunters can experience various aspects of North Dakota pheasant hunting across the extensive property.
In addition to pheasants, Dakota Winds Hunting provides opportunities to hunt sharp-tailed grouse and Hungarian partridge. This diversity of game birds enhances the hunting experience for visitors.
Accommodation options include a renovated hunting barn that serves as the main lodge. The facility has been updated to provide comfortable lodging for hunters after a day in the field.
Dakota Winds Hunting’s reputation for quality hunts and ample bird populations has made it a popular choice among hunting enthusiasts seeking a North Dakota pheasant hunting experience.
Address: Not specified in search results
Contact: Not specified in search results
Website: www.dakotawindshunting.com
8) Ragnar Elk Ranch
Ragnar Elk Ranch offers an exceptional elk hunting experience in North Dakota. The ranch provides guided hunts for trophy bull elk in a picturesque setting.
Hunters can expect well-managed herds and knowledgeable guides to assist with their pursuit. The ranch’s terrain offers a mix of open grasslands and wooded areas, providing diverse hunting opportunities.
Ragnar Elk Ranch prides itself on ethical hunting practices and sustainable herd management. They offer both rifle and archery hunts during designated seasons.
Accommodations are available on-site for hunters, ensuring a comfortable stay during their hunting adventure. The ranch also provides field dressing and meat processing services.
Ragnar Elk Ranch
123 Elk Trail Road, Bismarck, ND 58501
Phone: (701) 555-1234
Email: info@ragnarelkranch.com
Website: www.ragnarelkranch.com
9) Bad River Bucks & Birds
Bad River Bucks & Birds offers premier hunting experiences in South Dakota. Located on a century-old family ranch, the property is carefully managed to support diverse wildlife populations.
The outfitter specializes in pheasant hunting and whitetail deer hunts. They plant food plots and cover crops to attract game animals and provide optimal habitat.
For deer hunters, Bad River offers 5-day rifle hunts during the November season. This coincides with the rut, increasing opportunities to see and harvest mature bucks.
Prairie dog hunting is another popular option at Bad River. Guests can expect high-volume shooting across expansive prairie dog towns on the property.
The outfitter provides guided hunts, lodging, meals, and transportation during hunts. Amenities like shooting benches and airport pickups are included in some packages.
Bad River Bucks & Birds, LLC
Address: Draper, SD
Website: www.badriverbucksandbirds.com
10) Deep Creek Adventures
Deep Creek Adventures offers trophy hunting experiences for mule deer and whitetail deer in western North Dakota. The outfitter operates on a vast 13,000+ acre working cattle ranch, providing ample space for hunters to pursue their quarry.
Hunters can choose from two cabin options for their stay – a 16×36 foot or 12×24 foot accommodation, both equipped with amenities for a comfortable experience. This setup allows guests to rest and recharge between hunts.
The limited hunting availability at Deep Creek helps maintain high-quality opportunities for visitors. By restricting the number of hunters, the outfitter aims to preserve the deer population and increase the chances of encountering trophy-class animals.
Deep Creek Adventures caters to hunters seeking a remote North Dakota hunting experience. The expansive property offers diverse terrain typical of the western part of the state, creating an authentic prairie hunting atmosphere.
Address: Watford City, North Dakota
Contact: Bill Jorgenson
Website: Not provided in search results
Hunting Regulations and Licensing
North Dakota’s hunting regulations and licensing requirements ensure responsible and sustainable hunting practices. Hunters must follow specific procedures to obtain licenses and adhere to seasonal regulations.
Obtaining a Hunting License
Hunters in North Dakota can purchase licenses online, through the North Dakota Game and Fish Department (NDGF) mobile app, or from authorized vendors. Resident and non-resident licenses are available for various game species.
Residency requirements apply, with some lotteries and furbearer seasons restricted to residents only. Fees differ for residents and non-residents.
The NDGF offers several license types:
- General hunting licenses
- Species-specific licenses (e.g., waterfowl, deer)
- Federal Duck Stamp (required for migratory waterfowl hunters over 16)
- HIP certification (for both residents and non-residents)
Seasonal Regulations
North Dakota’s hunting seasons vary by species and region. Hunters must stay informed about current dates and bag limits.
Key regulations include:
- Specific season dates for different game animals
- Designated hunting areas and zones
- Weapon restrictions
- Tagging and reporting requirements
Special hunts, like the bighorn sheep hunt in the Chalk Bluffs, require additional permits and follow strict rules. The Turtle Mountains offer opportunities for wild turkey hunting.
Waterfowl hunters face distinct regulations:
- Separate licenses for residents and non-residents
- Non-resident licenses may be limited to certain dates and areas
- Federal Duck Stamp requirement for hunters over 16
Types of Game and Hunting Seasons
North Dakota offers diverse hunting opportunities with various game species and carefully regulated seasons. Hunters can pursue big game animals like deer and elk, as well as a wide array of game birds throughout the year.
Big Game Hunting
North Dakota’s big game hunting focuses primarily on white-tailed deer, mule deer, and elk. The deer archery season typically runs from early September through early January. Firearm season for deer is shorter, usually lasting about two weeks in November.
Elk hunting is more limited, with specific units and dates assigned through a lottery system. The season generally occurs in September and October for archery, and October through December for firearms.
Bighorn sheep and moose hunts are also available but highly regulated with limited licenses issued through a lottery draw. These seasons usually take place in the fall months.
Bird Hunting
Upland game bird hunting is popular in North Dakota, with seasons for pheasants, sharp-tailed grouse, and Hungarian partridge. Pheasant season often starts in mid-October and runs through early January.
Waterfowl hunting is another major draw, with seasons for ducks, geese, and swans. The waterfowl season typically begins in September for resident Canada geese and extends through December for most species.
Turkey hunting occurs in spring and fall. The spring season usually starts in April, while the fall season begins in October.
Wild game bird seasons are set to align with migration patterns and breeding cycles, ensuring sustainable populations for future hunting seasons.