Sportsmen's Nation - Big Game | Western Hunting

In this GOHUNT Bonus Episode of The Western Rookie podcast, Brian Krebs dives into the 2025 South Dakota non-resident archery deer applications. With the deadline fast approaching, this episode covers everything you need to know to make an informed decision—whether you're chasing whitetails or mule deer. Brian breaks down public land availability, drought conditions, draw odds, and why South Dakota should be on your radar if you're a bowhunter looking for a quality, budget-friendly hunt closer to home.Key Takeaways:Application Deadline: April 17, 2025Reminder Date: April 10 via the Western Rookie Application CalendarTag Type: Public Land Only archery tags for non-residentsDraw Odds (2024): ~57% with 0 pointsTag Cost: $286 for non-residents — one of the cheapest archery mule deer tags availableDrought Status: Majority of South Dakota is currently in severe to extreme drought, potentially impacting antler growthWhitetail Overview:East River units have very limited public landSome units offer great trophy potent