(newbie) how to start? and what to expect?

[port_huron_area]

Hi every one. Iam looking to get into trapping. I was just wondering what I should start out with (supplies traps etc). I was also wondering what the fur market holds nowadays? Prices for yotes coon mink etc. any info would be great. also any links to trapping pages with the best info on getting started.:help::chillin:

[gilgetter]

what type of trapping do you want to do? land trapping for k9 or water for rats and such? and how much do want to spend? what type of ground will you be trapping? state or private? imo one way to get the most out of your trapping is to set a goal and work to meet that goal. learn from it then set a new goal. would be glad to help, if you want.

[trappinwoman]

I agree with gilgetter, you have to set a goal. If you aren't sure then read up on it a little more on the different species to figure it out. But yeah do what gilgetter said then you should be set. Oh yeah expect a lot of memories and some fun! Good luck.

[det07]

Hi every one. Iam looking to get into trapping. I was just wondering what I should start out with (supplies traps etc). I was also wondering what the fur market holds nowadays? Prices for yotes coon mink etc. any info would be great. also any links to trapping pages with the best info on getting started.:help::chillin:


Hey pm me if you need someone to go with. I would like to learn to trap as well. You still in the P.H area?

[port_huron_area]

yeah I guess I should have elaborated a little more. I want to start with foxes and coyotes. or even a mink. I plan to do most on private land but would like to try some state also. I live about 20-25 mins away from port huron. thanks

[gilgetter]

port huron there is alot of great info on this site.and all the folks are more than willing to help. k9s are a good a place as any to start. and runing a little mink line is nothen but fun. the good thing is that you have all summer to get your gear around, sort out what you want to get out of your effort. its all up to you. trapping is like anything else in this world,you get out of it what you put into it. trappinwoman nice to see a young lady on the site welcome.

[USMCSniper]

PH this is the best info I can give you, I am a first year guy myself. You need to procure a supply of #2 coil spring, #1 long spring, 1.5 coilspring, and 110 bodygrip. From the info that I have recieved from everyone on here the #2 is the best all around for K9, it will take fox and coyote. The #1LS, 1.5CS, and the 110 body can all be set for mink, muskrat, and the 1.5's can also be used for Coon. But just as important as the traps are your preparations for handling the fur, I found out real quick that I was ill equiped for putting up fur. I recommend buying a fleshing beam or making one if you choose. If you are going after yote you should get a 2 handed fleshing knife. Oh also make sure you have a good staking system, always secure your trap for the biggest animal you COULD take in the set. That means for yote you either need to buy or make double stake swivels, or cable anchors. There are a lot of things you could have and will want but these I think are the essentials. For K9's you will also need a sifter, a trowel or shovel, and a mallet if you are using stakes. Thats about all I can give you like I said I'm new too.

[Long Spurs]

I know its hard to do but if you could find someone in your area who traps, and pick his or her brain it would help you a ton.The people on this forum will help you with any question you have. Just remember no question is to silly to ask. But hands on is the best way to learn. Good luck!!!

[gregg vannortrick]

I started out a year ago . I have found that going to a place that sold trapping stuff helped alot . The fur buyer in your area might bee a good place . I have been trying to keep things simple . I started out with a garden shovel , 3 1-1/2 traps some heavy wire and some field mice and home made stakes . Felt like i was a kid agian in the woods . As far as where to set the traps I have found that if you look at the big picture and find the outside corner to a feed spot you will find the dogs . wish you the best and just keep asking ?.

[David G Duncan]

port_huron_area,

Welcome to Trapping!!!

Two very good publications that you can get to increase your knowledge about trapping are:

Fur-Fish & Game magazine

Trapper & Predator Calling magazine

If possible you should try to attend the Michigan Trapper's Association convention being held this summer.

Good Luck and on your trapline!

[magnumhntr]

As a first year trapper, I can tell you first hand you can expect alot of fun and memories. If you love the outdoors, you will soon find yourself addicted to this sport. Set yourself reachable goals, like 1 mink, 1 coon, 1 rat, etc. That way, you don't set your sights too high, and won't make it into a 'job' trying to reach your goals.

Trapping any numbers is hard work. I knew it wouldn't be easy, but never did I think it could take up so much time. Not that I'm complaining ~ I love every minute of it. It ingrains itself into your life ~ like instead of taking the easy way to a destination, now I drive back roads wherever I'm going as a scouting mission - looking for new places to trap. Its become an obsession.

One thing I didn't see anyone list above was a camera - digital if you can afford it. A picture will bring back many memories years down the road. Plus, everyone on here likes trapping porn ;)

Also, read through the previous posts if you haven't already. There is so much knowledge written down on this site, and trapperman. I can attest to the fact that the posts here and trapperman will drastically shorten your learning curve...

Hope this helps a bit...

Chris