Post by Kristen on May 18, 2013 10:18:03 GMT -5
Since the prices have rocked our little trapping world, some have become interested in muskrat trapping/ new trappers who want to start out. I love these little fur balls and over the last few years have done some trial and error for trapping them. I have several sets for them, that correlates with the weather. 
My favorite months for trapping them is Novemeber, they are on the move building their food supply for the winter months. I have stocked up on 1.5 coil springs, and found that the heavier the trap the better, so I am adding weight to all these traps for maximum effectiveness. In the off season I gather sapplings and paint/flag the top ends, so that I can pick them out in the tall cattail.
When trapping them in open water the most effective set that I have found for my area, is setting the feed beds/huts. Its fairly clear to see where the muskrats are feeding, pottying, and/or building. I use 14g wire to anchor the trap to the sappling. I usually gang set the huts wherever I see appropriate. I do not waste my time on innative huts unless there is sign of mink.
I hope to keep adding to this post as the time goes on! But for now, here is some pictures!
My favorite months for trapping them is Novemeber, they are on the move building their food supply for the winter months. I have stocked up on 1.5 coil springs, and found that the heavier the trap the better, so I am adding weight to all these traps for maximum effectiveness. In the off season I gather sapplings and paint/flag the top ends, so that I can pick them out in the tall cattail. When trapping them in open water the most effective set that I have found for my area, is setting the feed beds/huts. Its fairly clear to see where the muskrats are feeding, pottying, and/or building. I use 14g wire to anchor the trap to the sappling. I usually gang set the huts wherever I see appropriate. I do not waste my time on innative huts unless there is sign of mink.
I hope to keep adding to this post as the time goes on! But for now, here is some pictures!
