What size shotgun and shells/choke is recommended?
The favorite gun for use would definitely be the 12 gauge. Semi-automatic, pump, or over-under whichever your most comfortable using. 12 gauge shotguns coupled with a modified to full choke (late season), is premium. The required shot size at DWP is: #6–#5–#4, no shells above #6. DWP recommend’s #6 thru #5 lead shot- 2 ¾ inch shells during early to mid-season & #4 thru #2 shot, thru late season. 20 gauge also works well, however with this pheasants we ask that 20 gauge users bring 3 inch shells- using 2 thru 4 shot-lead. This seems to work very well. Please remember these birds are very resilient and extremely capable of withstanding a shot to the side, so we ask that your guests are prepared to hunt the most challenging game birds in South Dakota!
