Hunter Education Course

Chapter 10: Trapping Techniques

Trapping, like hunting, is a part of our heritage. For some, trapping evokes images of bearded mountain men with clothing made from deer and buffalo hides exploring the untamed wilderness. Early settlers used animal hides to make clothing and to cover their shelters. They also used the meat to provide food, and the bones were made into tools. Hides or pelts were used like money to trade and barter for supplies.

There are times when there is an absence of natural predators and one species becomes overpopulated, leading animals out of their natural habitat and closer to civilization. For example, Beavers take up residence in drainage areas and dam up creeks, causing flooding and damage to property.

Trapping is also used to control damage to livestock animals. Raising sheep will attract coyotes, and at times, these can decimate a flock of sheep in days. Trapping controls the spread of disease by keeping the wildlife population at the carrying capacity of the land. When there is an overpopulation of one species in an area, that species is more susceptible to starvation and disease.

Trapping is not always for capturing animals for their fur. To increase wildlife populations in areas, biologists and volunteers will trap a certain species and relocate them to another location with suitable habitat. The wild turkey is one example of a species that was on the decline. Now, after trapping and relocation, the numbers of turkeys in the wild has increased in recent years, allowing turkey hunting seasons to occur in most areas. The whitetail deer is another success story where trapping and relocation has increased the populations in many areas.

In this chapter we will discuss basic tools and traps used by today's trapper.

Trapping Equipment

Live Catch Foothold Traps

The animal you have targeted for trapping determines the type of trap to use. The first trap we will discuss is the live catch foothold trap. This is an all-around trap that can be used in a water or land setting. It's concealable and can catch an animal by its leg. This restrains rather than kills. A trapped animal can be released. It is important that the trapper use the right size trap for the animal being trapped.

The trap is connected to an anchor stake and chain. The stake keeps the animal from running off with the trap after it is caught. It is required by law that all traps have a name tag attached to the anchor chain. This tag features the trapper's name and a contact number where the trapper can be reached. The trap is set under spring tension provided by a coil. The dog holds the jaws under spring tension. The pan is connected to the dog and is the triggering mechanism. When the animal steps on the pan, the dog flips out of the way releasing the jaws. It is used for trapping the following animals:

• Opossum
• Raccoon
• Mink
• Muskrat
• Fox
• Bobcat
• Coyote

Live Traps

Live traps are big and bulky and are hard to carry on a trapline. They are used primarily for relocating animals from around farms, homes and office buildings. These traps capture the animal alive and unhurt. The animal walks into the trap and steps onto a triggering mechanism. A door swings down and locks in place. It is used for trapping the following animals:

• Raccoons
• Opossums
• Squirrels
• Skunks

Conibear / Bodygrip Trap

The bodygrip trap catches the animal around the body and kills it. They are mostly used in a water setting. These traps come in different sizes, depending on the animal being trapped. The bodygrip trap is placed in a location where the targeted animal will swim through it. When the animal swims through it, the triggering mechanism is activated and the trap snaps shut, capturing the animal. There are restrictions on their use on land. It is used for trapping the following animals:

• Muskrat
• Mink
• Otter
• Beaver
• Nutria

Box Traps

Commonly referred to as a colony, cage or basket trap, this has swinging doors at both ends. A targeted animal enters the trap by pushing on or swimming past the swinging door, which opens to the inside of the trap. It is hinged under a light spring pressure. Once the animal is in the box trap, it cannot escape. These types of traps can be used on land but are best suited for wet locations. There is no triggering mechanism that the targeted animal has to step on. It is used for trapping the following animals:

• Muskrats
• Rabbits

Snares

Snares are considered trapping devices, but they work differently than the other traps discussed so far. The snare is suspended above the ground - usually at the head and shoulder height of the targeted animal. As the animal walks down the trail, its head enters the snare. As the animal continues to move forward along the trail, the snare tightens around the animal's neck. The snare is a restraining type of trap - its locking device on the cable prevents the trapped animal from escaping. The snare is used for trapping the following animals:

• Fox
• Bobcat
• Coyote

Trapping Safety

Trapping is safe and rewarding sport, but a trapper needs to consider certain precautions while handling trapped animals.

When you walk up to one of the restraining traps, the animal will be alive. If you are using a bodygrip trap, the animal ought to be dead. Since live animals might inflict bites or scratch, safety precautions are a must!

The trapper can use a noose pole to help if the animal is to be released.

If the animal is not going to be released, a small caliber firearm can be used to dispatch the animal. Remember to follow the rules for safe firearm handling.

Animals in the wild may carry diseases that can be transmitted to humans. Wear latex or rubber gloves and eye protection when handling carcasses. Wash your hands and arms after handling carcasses. Disinfect all knives and your skinning tools. Taking these precautions will minimize risk of infection to the trapper. Let your health care provider know that you are a trapper.

When setting traps, be careful that your fingers are not in the jaw area of the trap. Some traps have a piece of wire or steel that will hold the jaws in place while the trapper is setting the trap. Not all traps have these safety devices.

Dress accordingly for the weather conditions. Trapping is usually enjoyed in colder weather. Hypothermia is always a consideration when hunting or trapping in wet and cold conditions.

Check your local trapping regulations. Every area has certain trapping seasons and regulations suited for that area.

Trapping is a great way to enjoy nature and learn more about the animals we share the woods with. Trapping can also supplement your income. The best way to learn more about trapping is to look up the Trappers' Association in your area.

Some trappers' Associations have trappers who can mentor you - this is a great way to learn. An experienced trapper can teach the proper way to skin an animal as well as proper fur-handling techniques. There are classes offered on animal behavior, animal signs and animal tracking, as well as basic, intermediate and advanced trapping skills. This is an excellent way to learn the different aspects of the sport of trapping.

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