SIOUX FALLS, S.D. (KELO) -- Local pheasant hunters will have a three-day window to hit the fields starting Saturday, with the Resident Only season in South Dakota. Dr. Tom Stys is a cardiologist at Sanford Health. He was born in Poland, grew up in Africa, and has spent 21 years in South Dakota, where he's become an avid hunter. "It's a wonderful time to bond, enjoy the nature, enjoy the thrill, and above all I love to cook (laugh)," medical director for Sanford Health cardiology services Stys said. There will be no shortage of pheasant hunters roaming the countryside in the coming weeks, and Dr. Stys says your health should be a top priority. "Unfortunately, too many hunters come unprepared for the hunting season, get out in the middle of wilderness where there's not always much help and experience a heart attack or a stroke, which is a very sad situation," Dr. Stys said. Kobee Strong: Another big step in his fight against cancer Dr. Stys says strenuous exertion, cold weather, and the thrill of hunting can lead to a major medical event, and to know your warning signs. "Listen to your body. If it crosses your mind something's not right, do not ignore it. It could be a subtle chest pain, a little dizziness, a little arm ache, a little back ache, a little sweatiness, little fatigue that's unusual," Dr. Stys said. "Definitely after an afternoon of walking around in the field your body feels it," pheasant hunter Lucas Nogelmeier said. Nogelmeier is a pheasant hunter and loves to watch his dogs work a field, but struggles to match their energy. "After a few hunts, your body gets into shape but it's those early hunts where I'm just thinking about I don't want to hurt myself and if I start to get sore, start to hurt, pull back. There will be more hunts down the road," Nogelmeier said. Nogelmeier often hunts alongside his nearly 70-year-old father. Dr. Stys says it's important to watch out for your fellow hunters. "When things start happening from the heart's perspective, somebody's having a heart attack or stroke, they can go very fast. The only thing that saves lives and improves outcomes is time, you have to be quick," Dr. Stys said. And never hesitate to seek out help. Dr. Stys says the best advice he can give about preparing for hunting season is to take care of your heart year-round through diet, weight, and exercise.