The Trapper

11/08/2025

Did you know?
In the 1830s, the average mountain man earned about $300 a year trapping beaver — a small fortune for the time. Many of them spent it all at the legendary rendezvous gatherings on gear, whiskey, and gambling!

If you were at a fur trade rendezvous, what would you spend your pelts on?

11/07/2025

Trapper’s Toolbox

Lap-Link, Stake Swivel & Universal Swivel
From chain to anchor, every link matters.
Lap-links connect components solidly without bulky weight.
Stake swivels keep traps from twisting free when animals fight the chain.
Universal swivels offer 360° movement — a modern upgrade that cuts down on chain stress and paw damage.

What’s your go-to swivel setup — traditional, double, or universal? Drop a pic of your rig in the comments!



PC: IL DNR

11/06/2025

Word Wednesday: Walkthrough Set

Definition: A flat-style set where the trap is placed between two guiding objects, forcing the animal to “walk through” the spot — perfect for bobcats and coyotes.

Have you tried walkthroughs on your line? What kind of guides do you use — sticks, bones, or rocks?



PC: IL DNR

11/05/2025

Check this out!

Every deer hunt turns into a coyote hunt when these guys show up!

11/05/2025

Silent Set Trick:
When bedding a trap, sprinkle a thin layer of dry peat moss or waxed dirt under the pan. It cushions movement and keeps your trap silent — no telltale crunch for cautious predators.
What’s your go-to bedding material?

11/04/2025

What’s your favorite time of day to run the line — sunrise, mid-morning, or evening checks?
Tell us when you like to be out there, and why!

11/01/2025

How’s your line looking this weekend?
Post a photo from your trapline — the view from your set, your partner in the truck, or that early-morning check-in spot you love most.
Let’s see what a day on the line looks like where you trap!

11/01/2025

10/31/2025

Did you know?
Early trappers used everything from log fires to sumac berries to color their traps before wax was common.
Nature was their hardware store — and the forest provided the dye!

What’s the most natural (or unusual) dye you’ve ever used?

10/31/2025

What kind of set would you deploy in an attempt for a triple?