All trappers have fond memories of that first catch-the excitement of finding that  animal in their very own set. For Kaleb Ellis, son of Jimmy and Amy Ellis, that came in the form of a beautiful white ermine in rat trap placed in a cubby box. As I am traveling the scenic hill country of western Wisconsin tending bovines, it delights me to see Kaleb following  after his Dad on the trapline. On one particular sunny day Kaleb was sporting a new pair of very cool shades while he was busily checking out a frozen swamp while Jimmy and I chatted along side the road. Trapping is rejuvenating, but never more so than when it is shared with a youngster!

      I enjoy swapping stories with Jimmy. One of the techniques we discussed this winter was bottom edge trapping for muskrat and mink using bodygrips ranging in size from 110 to 220. These traps are set in streams alongside hard defined structure, such as a cut bank, a large rock or a log or stump. The animals of the water swim on the bottom to conserve energy and will hold tight to the structure. This is easy cold water trapping as a minimum of equipment is needed and sets are made in the swiftest and deepest water where ice is less apt to form. Also, traps are never frozen in even if there is surface ice. Jimmy had some good ideas for this endeavor. He uses the carrying case from a collapsible lawn chair to carry stakes. Also, traps can be floated up the waterway in a high-sided plastic sled that is outfitted with a grapple on the rope to anchor it to the bank while working.

        Thanks to Jimmy and all the people who share their stories and ideas.

                                                                                                                                            Enjoy the outdoors                            Tom