Trapping Supplies for Beginners

Though the first European explorers came to North America in search of gold, silver, spices and precious gems, it was an abundance of fur-bearing animals that proved to be the real treasure. Trappers explored and colonized much of the continent to fuel the fur trade. Fur-bearing animals are a renewable resource and trappers still harvest muskrats, beavers and other animals. But trapping has become more of a recreational pastime than a livelihood. There are several basic items to acquire to become a trapper.

  1. Traps

    • The basic types of traps used today include foothold traps, body grip traps, cable restraints and cage traps. The type of trap to get started depends on what you hope to catch and where you have permission to trap. A common mistake is to buy gear that appears all-encompassing so that you could, for example, catch foxes and coyotes or beavers and muskrats. However, you only will catch animals using a trap that is an appropriate size. Another pitfall is buying lots of cheap traps. You are more likely to enjoy success trapping using fewer quality traps than more, but unreliable, traps.

    Lures and Baits

    • Lures and baits attract animals to traps. Commercially made lures use scents made from animals glands and organs. These lures often cater to specific species. Commercial baits also are sold, but chunks of fish or mixtures of foods such as peanut butter, honey or fruits can be just as effective in catching fur-bearing animals.

    Stakes and Tools

    • Stakes and placement tools secure a trap to earth or another object such as a tree to restrain an animal after it is caught. Coyote trappers, for example, often use two stakes per trap. You also will need a large hammer to pound in stakes, a digging tool and other tools such as wire cutters, pliers and marking tape to set up a trap correctly.

    Safety/Comfort

    • Get items that will make your trapping experience safe and comfortable. Wearing safety glasses is recommended when setting a trap. Rubber boots will keep feet dry, work gloves will protect hands and rubber gloves are more suitable for setting traps in and around sites near water.

    Stay Legal

    • Trapping is an activity permitted and regulated by state wildlife agencies. You will need a trapping license, landowner permission to trap on private property and a knowledge of state trapping laws to make sure your activity remains within legal guidelines.