Dakota Expeditions Trivia

Trivia Info

Dakota Expeditions, LLC -- "Who, What & Where"

I am sure that many of you who inquire with an Outfitter regarding a hunting expedition would like to know a little more about "us" than what you find in the basic ad, so . . . here goes!

Clint ("founding father" of our hunting enterprise) was born and raised on the third generation family farm and has breathed and lived hunting and fishing in South Dakota for all of his 57 years. When growing up, if his Father couldn't take him hunting or fishing, his Mother got the "duty". Even put a daredevil pike lure in his Shetland pony's ear one time trying to fish out of the cattle stock tank which he had stocked in case he didn't make it to the lake!

Fortunately, both Clint's daughter, Jodi, and son, Josh love to hunt, shoot trap, scuba dive and fish. Jodi has completed vet school at Iowa State University and, as she says, is now a "real doctor of dogs"! Jodi and her husband have a little one of their own now, a daughter who is one of "Grandpa Clint's" pride and joy! Jodi enjoys coming back during the fall hunting season when her schedule permits, however she is usually kept pretty busy with her veterinarian & family obligations.

Josh, is a fanatic when it comes to hunting, fishing, scuba diving and motorcycles -- even though Clint gives him a bad time about not riding a Harley like his father! Josh graduated from SDSU with a degree in wildlife biology and criminal law. He is also a member of the Army National Guard, and a commissioned officer. Josh and his wife, Laura, are now proud owners and managers of the hunting operation, dba/Dakota Expeditions, LLC, thus giving Clint more flexibility and time to pursue other interests. And, on February 26th, 2008, Josh, Laura, and Liz, welcomed Kadence Alex Smith into their family (pictures below!!!)

Jodi Smith, DVM Josh Smith, Outfitter

Welcome to our new addition!! Kadence Alex Smith, born February 26, 2008, 9.6 lbs.

Our guides and their dogs are second to none! The ladies that make up our lodge staff for cooking, cleaning, serving, and hospitality are also second to none. Unfortunately one great person who was a familiar smiling face here at Dakota Expeditions, Laura's brother and Josh's lifetime friend, Alex Pettit will now be with us in our hearts only; on February 19th, 2008 an auto accident took Alex from us and we all miss him so very much.

Alex Wayne Pettit

April 3, 1982 - February 19, 2008

While in high school, Alex enlisted in the South Dakota National Guard as a track vehicle mechanic. He attended Basic Training the summer of 1999 in Fort Leonard Wood, Mo., and Advanced Individual Training the following summer. He was a member of the 153rd Engineer Company in Huron, S.D. Alex attended Southeast Technical Institute in Sioux Falls to study diesel mechanics. He put his studies on hold to continue his career in the military when he transferred from the S.D. National Guard to Active Army and was stationed at Fort Irwin, Calif.

In January 2005 while serving with F Troop 1/11 Armored Calvary Regiment, Alex and his fellow soldiers deployed to Iraq and returned back to the United States in March 2006. From there, Alex came back to his hometown in May 2006 to be closer to his family. He fulfilled his military obligation by serving his final time with C Bty 17th FA in Miller receiving an honorable discharge.

During his eight years as a U.S. soldier, Alex obtained the rank of Sergeant and earned the following awards: Army Commendation Medal (2), Army Achievement Medal (4), Army Good Conduct Medal, National Defense Service Medal, Global War On Terrorism Service Medal, Non-Commissioned Officer Professional Development Ribbon, Army Service Ribbon, Overseas Service Ribbon, Combat Action Badge, Iraq Campaign Medal.

Shortly after his move back to Miller, Alex began work as a ranch hand near Ree Heights, where he made his home. He loved the outdoors, which made this work perfect for him. During this time, he became a very proud owner of a Harley Davidson, which became his pride and joy, ranking closely to his beloved pit bulls, Girl and Buddy, who he was always ready to show off.

He was always keeping busy, but never too busy to stop and help someone or just visit and share his quirky smile everyone came to love. Alex was never at a loss for words, and he always had something to say that would bring a smile or laughter to anyone. Alex was a very caring and thoughtful person and continued that through the gift of organ and tissue donation.

Alex had plans to move to Mitchell next fall to finish his education, but will now go on to do bigger and better things.

Call Toll Free 1-888-853-2545 E-mail: dakexp@gmail.com