FAQ

What type of gear should I bring?

We suggest you wear and upland pant or chap, dress in layers, waterproof hunting boot, blaze orange vest and hat, stocking hat, shooting gloves, ear and eye protection, and shot gun. Guns may be shipped to the lodge ahead of time. We also have guns available to use if you do not wish to travel with a gun. Also, if you wish to take birds home with you, you may want to bring a cooler.

Where is the closest airport?
Commercial flights are available in Sioux Falls (typically the cheapest and the closest) or Rapid City. Private airports with heated hangers are available in Mitchell or Chamberlain.

What type of license should I buy?

Hunters are responsible for their small game license. Nonresident Small Game licenses cover (2) 5-day periods. Approximate cost is $120. These are available online (https://gfp.sd.gov/license-types/)or at most convenient stores or outfitter stores once you arrive in South Dakota.

What can we expect for meals and drinks?

Our kitchen staff prepares a full breakfast buffet daily with eggs to order. Popular items on the buffet are biscuits and sausage gravy, grits, bacon, country ham, pancakes or french toast, breakfast potatoes, dessert breakfast, oatmeal, fruits, assorted juices, and a full coffee bar. Lunch will either be provided in the field with sandwiches, fruit, chips, candy bars, cookies, pop, and water, or back at the lodge with grilled hamburgers, brats, chips, fruit, and desert. After the hunt, you can expect daily appetizers. Supper is also serve buffet style with a FULL salad bar. Our entrees include from steak, brisket, chicken, pheasant, and pork loin to name a few. The buffet is full of multiple side options and salads. Dessert is always served with ice cream. Our kitchen staff makes everything from scratch. Do not expect to leave hungry! We also provide standard beer, liquor, and wine, however you are welcome to bring your own. The fridges are stocked with soda and waters.

What can I expect to see from the use of dogs?
Our guides are using only the top trained and tested dogs. We use mainly pointing dogs (vizslas) in the field. We also have a couple of labs that tag along. Hunters are welcome to bring their dogs to the lodge. Dogs are welcomed inside the lodge (crated) or in the outdoor runs. Hunters are REQUIRED to use a e-collar on their dogs and must be able to handle their dog. If a hunters dog is not cooperating, they will be asked to leash and kennel their dog the rest of the hunt. All dogs must be up to date on vaccination and must include the bordetella vaccine.

Who cleans the birds?

We do have a staff responsible for cleaning all the birds harvested daily. Birds are breasted out, packaged, and frozen before you leave. Whole birds are available upon request.

How are gratuities handled?

Our staff works very diligently to provide you the best experience you can have at White Lake Hunting Lodge. Be mindful the dogs and year-round dog care and training will take your hunt to the top level. Our guides are working to please you and ensure your hunt is successful. Our kitchen staff will guarantee any and all needs are met.  The bus drivers, bird cleaners, and housekeepers all work together to ensure your stay with us is top notch. Gratuities may be handed directly to your working staff, or given to the owners to divide appropriately between the staff. Typically, tips range between $200-$300 per gun.