This season, I’ve decided to try using newspaper tubes for cubby sets on my marten trapline. The tubes make for a great cubby, with the open end being the perfect size for a 120 conibear trap. I got a great deal on 20 tubes and plan to set them up on my line before the season starts, but not without a little bit of modification.
I’ve drilled a series of holes through the sides and back of the tubes to allow for more air to flow through and carry the scent of the bait further from the set, potentially drawing animals in from a longer distance.
After that, I cut slots on each side of the tubes’ openings to fit the springs of a 120 conibear.
The 120 fits just right, and with the bait placed in the back of the tube, mounted on an elevated log or tree, it should make for a good set!
Lots of marten trappers in Maine and other states use these boxes at their sets. They are light, stackable, and will last a lot longer than wood boxes. You can buy them new from places like Continental Products and Rak Systems, or pick used ones up at your local newspaper distributor.
Alaska trapper and biologist Steve Peterson uses them on his line and wrote and extensive article on the subject.
You can find more ideas for marten sets by searching the topic at trapperman.com.
Which size tube did you get? Is it the standard size?
Yup, standard size. Opening is approx. 6″ x 6″.
What type of trap did you use? LDL’s by the look of them? thoughts on besile?
great idea – lyle
Hi Lyle,
Most 120 coni’s will work well in the boxes. The one pictured there is a Bridger. I have heard lots of great things about Belisles. They are a really tough trap, but the initial cost is a little more than I’m willing to invest right now. The Bridgers work great and for the price I’m not sure that they can be beat.
Thanks for commenting.
Where did you buy your newspaper boxes? I have been looking everywhere online and can’t find a distributor or manufacturer?
Please reply via e-mail ([email protected]).
Thanks,
Tim — a fellow Maine trapper
I bought mine second hand, but they sell them new at continentalproducts.com.
What holds the trap in the box when it’s turned up verticle? Is it just the springs?And if it is, How secure is it?
I saw a similar box vertically and they had drilled 4 holes. Two on each side at top and bottom and once the trap was in place, inserted what looked like two wire skewers from hole to hole. The top one was under the dog and trigger and thru jaws the other just between the jaws. This fully supported the trap.