In this episode I chat with Maine trapper Brian Bernosky. Brian balances running a trapline with a full time job and raising a family in central Maine. He put up huge numbers of beavers this season and has some tips to share about trapping methods, efficiency, balancing time and responsibilities, and much more. Brian is also the vice president of the Maine Trappers Association … [Read more...]
2024 Fur Prices: Signs of Life in the Market
It's not the fur market of a decade ago, but things are starting to look a lot better in the wild fur industry. Years of poor demand and low prices led to massive declines in fur production, and a bump in demand across the board has led to some much improved prices in recent months. The bifurcation in the market continues, with demand and prices highly variable depending on the … [Read more...]
An Evolving Fur Market, with Kyle Kaatz
Listen in as Kyle Kaatz and I talk about the ever changing fur market, prices for different fur items sold at the recent Fur Harvesters Auction sale, and thoughts on how the market is changing, and may need to change moving forward. Support our Sponsors:Kaatz Bros. LuresOnX (use code 'TRAP' for 20% off!)Check out the Trapping Today Store for $10 off trapping today shirts! … [Read more...]
2024 Fur Price Update: Did The Market Hold Up?
In this episode I talk about preliminary results from the March 2024 Fur Harvesters auction. In short, the beaver market continues to be very strong, otter prices are surprisingly high, marten and fisher are the best I've seen in years, the muskrat market is dead, and raccoon and fox are so-so. Listen in for details! Support our Sponsors:Kaatz Bros. LuresOnX (use code 'TRAP' … [Read more...]
So, You Want to be a Wilderness Trapper?
In this episode we talk about the reality of Alaska wilderness trapping, the logistics required, the costs and the sacrifices you need to make to live the lifestyle. We discuss different types of Alaska trapline setups and what might work best for you. Enjoy! Support our SponsorsKaatz Bros. LuresOnX (use code 'TRAP' for 20% off)Trapping Today Store (t-shirt closeout, $10 … [Read more...]
Changing Weather and Making Memories: Podcast Episode 246
In this episode we talk about FHA's March auction quantities, the beaver market, the changing weather patterns and how we as trappers need to adapt, and making memories with family on the line. Enjoy! Support our Sponsors:Kaatz Bros. LuresOnxMaps (use code 'TRAP' for 20% off!)Trapping Today Store … [Read more...]
Best Tanneries to Send Your Fur To
Tanning is a necessary step to preserve fur for the long term. Once you catch a furbearer, skin it and flesh, stretch and dry the pelt, it's preserved for the short term. But a dried pelt will only last for weeks or months in that state. If you don't get it tanned it will break down and the bugs will get to it. The only way to preserve fur pelts indefinitely is to tan them. The … [Read more...]
Wolverines, Lynx and Grizzles: How the ESA Affects Trappers (Podcast Episode 245)
In this episode we talk about the Endangered Species Act, the recent listing of wolverines, how the Act has impacted Maine trappers and why trappers in the western states should take notice. We also discuss my trapline, fur prices, The Stan Project, and more. Enjoy! Kaatz Bros. LuresOnXMaps (use code 'TRAP' for 20% off!)Trapping Today Store … [Read more...]