South Dakota antelope rut timing

[SD_Prairie_Goat]

Hey all,

When would we typically expect rut to occur in western south Dakota?

I've seen rutting action during rifle season once, but not last time I was out for rifle.


I figure that must put rut around Sept 15-25 ish, normally?


Curious what others think, might try to chase them with a bow this year since I didn't pull a rifle tag

 

[Dakota79]

Your dates would be pretty close to my guess as well. Might happen just touch earlier.

 

[Bluffgruff]

I'd estimate September 15th October 10th is when I have seen the most convincing rut action, from Colorado, Wyoming, and Dakotas, and Montana

 

[The Hedgehog]

9/11 has been my craziest antelope rut action day on numerous years

 

[bmt99]

I think you have a good idea. From my experience (only in SD), it was about the 3rd week of September for a good starting point for it to pick up. Kind of lines up with elk. Can be a week earlier or a week later but I would use that as a general rule of thumb.

 

[SD_Prairie_Goat]

appreciate it all!

Fully expect to run around for a couple days trying to get close and failing miserably

 

[Wyhunter]

Ive had bucks pushing does in my back yard for the last 2 days. Looks like its starting a little early in wyoming this year.

 

[SD_Prairie_Goat]

Ive had bucks pushing does in my back yard for the last 2 days. Looks like its starting a little early in wyoming this year.

Feels really early! Good news for me heading next weekend