Every once in a while a person comes into an industry and turns it on its head. Maybe they see things differently, they aren’t happy with the status quo, and they push the limits of product development and take things to the next level. Craig O’Gorman did it in the trapping industry nearly half a century ago when he became a trendsetter for the elite trapper. Clint Locklear … [Read more...]
The MB-550: America’s Most Popular Coyote Trap
A variety of coyote traps have come and gone over the years, but one model has emerged in modern times that's set itself apart in the canine trapping community. The MB-550 is in my opinion the best all around coyote trap available today. There are some traps that work better in certain situations, but if I were to pick one coyote trap for all conditions, this is the trap I'd … [Read more...]
The Conibear Trap: Description, Origins and Uses of the Conibear and other Bodygrip Traps
It's hard to imagine the trapping world without the conibear, or bodygrip trap. This revolutionary device is an indispensable tool for fur harvesters and animal damage control operators everywhere. It produces quick, effective catches and humane dispatch of animals. It also has its challenges, and must be properly used for the right outcome. What is a conibear trap? The … [Read more...]
MB-750 Beaver/Otter Trap Review
MB-750 Overview-Made by Minnesota Trapline Products-Designed for Beaver and Otter-Jaw Spread: Inside 7 1/16", outside 7 3/8"-Pan size: 3"x3"-Comes with HD machine chain and two swivels-All models are standard 4-coiled-Weighs about 4 lbs. Review by Pat Connelly from Connelly Wildlife Management Although it’s been out for a few years now, I recently tried out the … [Read more...]
The Coyote Trap: An Overview of the Top Traps Used to Catch Coyotes
Long before Mr. Coyote became established as king predator in much of the U.S., the primary target for most land trappers was the red fox. Sometime around the 1960's and '70's, coyotes began moving in and taking over much of the fox's habitat, and fox trappers, particularly those Northeastern farmland trappers, were ill equipped to hold the bigger canine. Coyote trapping … [Read more...]
A Review of Trap Drags
Drags are a great way to anchor traps for a number of reasons. Basically, instead of keeping a trap anchored where it's set, a drag is designed to get hung up on brush, trees, and other objects while the caught animal leaves the set and heads for cover. It's a great way to conceal your catch from other trappers, while allowing caught furbearers to get under cover and lower … [Read more...]
An Overview of Trapping Supply Dealers
As trappers we're constantly in need of specialized supplies and equipment, and most of us don't have a well stocked trapping shop nearby. Traditionally we've relied on mail order supply catalogs, and in the modern age, many of us are turning to online dealers to get our trapping supplies. Here's an overview of some of the major trapping supply companies online … [Read more...]
Dyeing Traps with Cold Dip
You can buy traps from the factory and use them without dyeing, but it's not recommended. They'll start rusting quickly, causing poor performance, likelihood of failure, and a shorter life span. Traditionally, traps were dyed with tannins from the bark and/or boughs of certain trees. They were then dipped in wax. The dye provided a thin layer of protection by binding with … [Read more...]