Taylor: Make the most of the dog days of winter
August is often called the dog days of summer, but to me February can feel like the dog days of winter. Most hunting seasons have come to an end and often, it is frigid cold outside. If you’re like me, it’s easy to become stir crazy staying indoors when the weather outside is unfriendly. However, there are a few ways to scratch the outdoor itch and have a good time doing it.
Both rabbit and squirrel seasons run until the end of February. This is a great way to get outside and enjoy the weather, while taking a nice walk through the woods. Both species can be readily taken with a shotgun, using small shot size, or a rimfire rifle. Cottontail and squirrel are very under appreciated table fare. Rabbit and squirrel hunting is a perfect activity to get youngsters started hunting. I know I got my start in the outdoors chasing rabbits in the backyard with a pellet gun.
Predator hunting and trapping is open year-round when used in conjunction with the correct license. Hunting predators, such as coyote or fox, can be another great way to get outside and enjoy the mild winter. Coyotes and fox are abundant across South Dakota and can be a challenging, but rewarding, hunt.
Hand-calls and electronic calls alike can be found at most sporting goods stores, and both can be extremely effective when used correctly. Hand calls are very budget friendly and can be a great entry level purchase for getting into the sport. The fur market is pretty soft right now, but a tanned coyote or fox pelt is an awesome addition to your man cave or den. There are countless how-to videos on the internet for skinning either critter.
Ice fishing season is also in full swing across the state. Use proper caution and safety when exploring lakes and rivers around the state. The possibilities are endless on the hard water. From pike to bluegill, we are very blessed to have the angling opportunities we have in South Dakota.
Shed hunting has also become very popular in South Dakota. In the coming weeks, the buck deer will begin to shed their antlers from this year and begin the process of growing new ones. Finding a shed antler is a fun bonus to taking a hike through the woods. Read your regulations in the handbook for more information on shed hunting on public lands.
Take advantage of any break in the cold we might get and enjoy it outdoors. February might be the shortest month of the year, but it can feel like the longest if you stay indoors. Watch for warmer days to come and plan on doing something outside your norm. Walk a neighbor’s tree line with grandpa’s old .22 or buy a mouth call and try your hand at coyote calling. Get some early scouting for next year’s big buck by finding his sheds from this year. Do whatever you can to get outdoors.
Contact your local SDGFP office for any questions regarding regulations and licensing.
Colton Taylor is wildlife damage specialist for the South Dakota Game, Fish and Parks Department.
This article originally appeared on Aberdeen News: Make the most of the dog days of winter
