TOP SPOT: Northeastern South Dakota, around the Sand Lake National Wildlife Refuge.
SKINNY: Each year, huge flocks of snow geese pass through South Dakota, where special spring seasons allow hunting, since the over-abundant geese are destroying their breeding areas in the Arctic.
Hunters use the numerous walk-in areas or hunt on state Game Production Areas. Geese typically migrate through this region in March, depending on the weather. This is a hit-or-miss opportunity; you must know when the birds are in the area. The more decoys, the better.
SEASON/FEE: Feb. 1–May 8; nonresident license, $45
LIMIT: 20 daily; no possession
CONTACT: South Dakota Department of Game, Fish and Parks in Pierre (605-775-2475; sdgfp.info/index.htm). Be sure to request a free directory of walk-in areas and state lands.