How to Set an Indian Snare Trap

The snare is an adjustable trap that uses a loop to trap the neck or limb of an animal. Numerous different snare configuration exist to trap animals on trails or lure animals with bait. Modern snare traps use wire to snare the animal, but traditional traps utilize natural plant fibers or hair to braid the snare rope. Setting the trap requires attention to detail and knowledge of the animals present in the area. The typical snare is designed to trap small game but larger snares are effective for trapping coyotes, bobcats and larger mammals.

Things You'll Need

  • Snare rope
  • Sticks
  • Sapling
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Instructions

    • 1

      Locate a well-used game trail and determine which animals are using the trail based on tracks. Locate a narrow area on the trail that forces the animal through a small opening. This is the point where the animal is forced into the trap.

    • 2

      Form a loop in one end of the rope. Tie a double overhand knot with the loop and feed the opposite end of the rope through the loop. The result is a loose opening that will cinch around the animal.

    • 3

      Tie one end of the rope to a solid stick with a double overhand knot. Do not use a stick that will break with moderate force. Tie a second rope to the other end of the stick with a double overhand knot, and tie it to the tip of a small sapling.

    • 4

      Locate two forked sticks and drive them into the ground at the choke point. Set the sticks at a low point for small game like rabbits and squirrels, and at a knee-high point for larger animals like coyotes and small deer. The sticks will hold the top of the snare loop.

    • 5

      Locate a large stick with several branch tines. Drive the stick into the ground on the outside of the two support sticks. Pull on the rope to flex the sapling and hook the short stick that holds the ropes to one of the branch tines on the large anchor stick. Make a connection that will easily release with a small amount of pressure.

    • 6

      Shape the snare loop around the two small sticks. Form the loop so it will catch an animal as it passes through the choke point. The pressure from the animal will release the stick and sapling will cinch the noose tight.