Scent Post Set
Coyotes , like any canine , mark territory by urinating in specific areas . Fence corners , log and rock piles , muskrat and beaver houses , are all prime areas . Other coyotes travelling through will visit these spots to check-in or mark for themselves . These areas will naturally draw predators . Once I locate these spots I find a natural funnel where a small amount of bait or lure can be hidden . Be sure to hide the bait from sight to force the coyote to work the area and become caught in a well-placed trap . I prefer to use a drag on these sets as opposed to a stake to allow the animal to leave the site without too much damage .
Bait Sites
Bait sites are a great way to consistently draw predators to an area as long as there is bait present . It may come in the form of a farmer ’ s dead livestock or a pile of bait you have acquired either of butcher scraps or road kill . Be conscious of your local regulations pertaining to the bait that can be used . This appeals to the sense of smell . As birds , like crows , ravens and magpies , work the area it will become a visual and sound attractant as well .
Ideally these sites are constructed in brushy or treed areas to force the prey to establish paths . Once established these paths will be used by new predators to the sites . These areas only improve with time and will be the main place to target . Here is where I prefer to use the power snares . Place the snare at least 20 yards back from the pile to eliminate the possibility of accidental bird catches as well as to keep the snared predators out of sight of other snares and allow for multiple catches . Snares should be hung in natural narrowing of the trails , between two trees or through willows . Snare loops should be roughly 8 ” in diameter and 6 – 10 ” off the ground . Be sure to anchor snares well as a firm pull is required to fire the spring .
Being successful as a trapper requires a deep understanding of your target species . There are several sources of information available to help you get started . Books , videos , online forums or if you are lucky enough , the knowledge of a seasoned trapper . As in anything there is no substitute for experience . Be aware of the sign . Even a missed catch will have something to teach you .
Wild Guide . Winter 2017 28