Now is an ideal time to prepare for the upcoming trapping season. Whether working with new traps or refurbishing used ones, proper preparation pays dividends when the season arrives.

Essential Trap Cleaning Techniques

Both new and used traps require thorough cleaning before use. While this process may take time, the benefits are significant.

Cleaning New Traps

New traps typically arrive with a protective oil coating that must be removed prior to use.

• Boil water in a large kettle outdoors.
• Add a cleaning agent (such as lye or toilet bowl cleaner) to cold water before heating.
• Bring the mixture to a boil and submerge the traps for approximately one hour.

Important Safety Precautions:

• Never add caustic agents to boiling water.
• Wear eye protection, gloves, and suitable clothing.
• Avoid contact with boiling water.

As the traps boil, oil will rise to the surface. Carefully pour off this oil before removing the traps to prevent re-coating.

After removal, place traps in a cool, damp area to develop a light rust coating.

Dishwasher Method

An increasingly popular method involves using a dishwasher. A single wash cycle effectively removes residue, allowing traps to rust lightly afterward.

A dishwasher is an effective method for cleaning new traps.

Cleaning Used Traps

Used traps accumulate mud, debris, and odors from previously trapped animals. Begin by removing large debris by hand, then follow the same boiling process used for new traps.

Commercial Cleaner Option

Battle Born Trap Cleaning Powder from Southern Snares and Supplies effectively removes films, paint, wax, and dirt without damaging the traps.

Always clean traps outdoors over an open fire. Cleaning traps indoors is not recommended.

Coating Traps for Protection

Once traps are clean and lightly rusted, proceed to the coating process.

Dyeing Traps for Camouflage

Dye serves both as camouflage and as a protective layer for traps.

Using Commercial Dye

• Submerge traps in water and bring to a boil.
• Add dye according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
• Keep traps submerged for about one hour.

Logwood dye provides effective protection without attracting natural materials.

Natural Dye Options

Natural materials suitable for dyeing include:

• Sumac
• Maple bark
• Oak bark
• Walnut or butternut hulls

Do not dye traps that have not developed a light rust coating.

Using Paint as an Alternative

Some trappers prefer using spray paint instead of dye. Rust-Oleum 2X paint is a suitable option.

Paint traps well in advance of the season to allow any odors to dissipate.

An increasing number of trappers are opting to paint their traps.

Bright colors like red or pink can be used to enhance visibility from a distance if the traps are disturbed or fired.

Waxing Traps for Enhanced Performance

Waxing traps adds an extra layer of protection while improving their speed and functionality.

Wax blocks are recommended for the waxing process.

Waxing Process

• Melt wax slowly to approximately 230 degrees Fahrenheit.
• Submerge the trap until it reaches the wax temperature.
• Remove and allow excess wax to drip off.
• Hang traps to cool.

Safety Precautions:

• Never heat wax over an open flame.
• Use a camp stove and metal container.
• Wax is highly flammable.
• Never submerge wet traps into wax.
• Wear protective clothing and gloves.

Do not wax bodygrip (conibear) traps.

Adjusting Traps for Optimal Performance

New traps may require adjustments before they are ready for use.

Pan Height Adjustment

The pan should be level with the jaws of the trap.

• Too high: leads to poor catches or animals avoiding the pan.
• Too low: debris can obstruct the firing mechanism.

Adjust the pan height by bending the frame where the dog attaches.

Adjust pan tension using the nut and bolt at the pivot point.

Dog and Notch Adjustments

Shorten the notch to approximately 1/16 inch and square the back of the notch with a file. Square the dog for a clean release.

Dog Movement Control

If the dog exhibits excessive movement, tighten the loop slightly with pliers, being careful not to over-tighten.

Pan Tension Management

Pan tension determines the amount of pressure required to fire the trap.

• Adjust using the bolt at the pan pivot.
• Final adjustments should be made with the trap set.

Recommended Pan Tension:

• Raccoon: ½ to 1 pound.
• Coyote: 3 to 4 pounds.

Utilize a pan tension tester for precise measurements. To protect the tester, flip the loose jaw up before testing.

Final Thoughts on Trap Preparation

Although trapping season may seem distant, early preparation is crucial. Well-maintained traps not only last longer but also perform better.

Investing time in preparation now will yield significant benefits when the season arrives.