2026 Fishing Handbook

The South Dakota Department of Game, Fish & Parks is seeking a printing vendor to produce the 2026 Fishing Handbook, a comprehensive 76-page publication to be distributed across multiple locations in the state. The procurement requires printing 130,000 copies with specific technical specifications, including a 5.25" x 8.375" trim size, full color process printing, saddle-stitched binding, and 3-knife trimming. The printer will receive camera-ready PDF files from GFP no later than November 15, 2025, and will have 14 working days to complete printing and shipping, with a final product delivery deadline of December 16, 2025. Key deliverables include environmentally compliant paper stock containing 30% post-consumer waste, precise packaging requirements (first 5,000 handbooks in 50-book boxes, remainder in 100-book boxes), and distribution to various GFP locations including Aberdeen, Watertown, Chamberlain, Rapid City, and others. The printing specifications mandate paper certification from Green Seal, Ecologo, or meeting EPA Comprehensive Procurement Guidelines, with penalties of 0.5% of the bid price per day for late delivery.

The state procurement allows open competition for this contract, with potential preference given to resident businesses, minority-owned enterprises, and South Dakota manufacturers when bids are substantially equal. Vendors must register with the state's electronic procurement system managed by ESM Solutions and comply with corporate registration requirements outlined in the SDVendorManual. While no specific set-aside designations are explicitly mentioned for this contract, the state's procurement policies emphasize non-discrimination and fair practices. The procurement will follow either a Request for Quotation (RFQ) or Invitation for Bid (IFB) process, depending on the final contract value. Underrun tolerances are strict, with a maximum of 2% per ordered item, and overruns beyond that will not be compensated. Although a specific budget range is not provided, the comprehensive printing specifications and large volume of 130,000 copies suggest a substantial contract value. Potential bidders should carefully review the detailed printing specifications and vendor manual to ensure full compliance with state procurement requirements.