Anyone interested in learning basic trapping?

[tmrschessie]

Here is a post by David Duncan of the Michigan trapping site. Thought it might be of use to some of the newer beaver trappers. Tom
There are 8 sizes for beaver.

Kit ~ Under 20#.......... Under 40 inches stretched

Small ~ 20# to 30#........ 40 to 45 inches stretched

Small Medium ~ 30# to 35#........ 45 to 50 inches stretched

Medium ~ 35# to 40#........ 50 to 55 inches stretched

Large ~ 40# to 45#........ 55 to 60 inches stretched

Extra Large ~ 45# to 50#........ 60 to 65 inches stretched

Blanket ~ 50# to 60#........ 65 to 70 inches stretched

Super Blanket ~ Over 60#........... Over 70 inches stretched


These are just good estimated, based on my experience!

A good way to determine the stretched size of a beaver pelt, is by measuring the green pelt.

Hang the skinned green pelt on a nail by the nose and measure its length from nose to to base of tail.

Multiply this measurement by 1.5 and then add 2".

Example: The green pelt measures 42", so 1.5 x 42" = 63" and 63" + 2" = 65".

So a blanket beaver green pelt should measure at least 42".
__________________
Trapper Dave
Member: MTA, NTA, NRA, MBHA, QDMA

[deerinlincoln]

This might have been mentioned already, however I live in Lincoln city limits and have an opossum problem. I have a live trap, any suggestions on what I should use as bait? Thanks

[tmrschessie]

Use a piece of carp or old jelly doughnuts etc...but you may get a coon or skunk also. Dry or wet cat food also works. Tom