The Basics of Bushcraft Trapping

Bushcraft trapping is a fundamental wilderness skill, allowing you to secure food, learn about animal behavior, and build a deep understanding of survival basics. Trapping is only something that should be done in certain situations when it’s necessary, but if your life relies on it, having an understanding of the basics of bushcraft trapping can be invaluable.

(Bushcraft traps work best on small game, such as rabbits, squirrels and birds)

What is Bushcraft Trapping?

Bushcraft trapping involves creating and setting traps using natural or minimal resources to catch small animals for food. These skills were developed over centuries by indigenous cultures and survivalists who relied on nature for sustenance. Bushcraft trapping is distinct from modern trapping techniques, as it emphasizes traditional and often improvised traps built from materials found in the wild.

While trapping can be useful for survival situations, it’s also a practical skill that requires patience, knowledge, and respect for wildlife. In a survival context, trapping can provide a steady food source when hunting and foraging are not enough.

Ethics and Legalities of Bushcraft Trapping

Before heading into the wilderness to practice trapping, it’s essential to understand the ethical considerations and local regulations. Always check your local laws regarding trapping and wildlife capture, as it’s often illegal to trap without a permit in many regions.

Ethically, trapping should be done with the utmost respect for the animals and the ecosystem. Only trap when absolutely necessary, such as in a genuine survival situation or with the intent of educating yourself under regulated and humane conditions. Trapping for sport or without the intent to use the animal’s resources (meat, hide, etc.) is both unethical and often illegal.

Understanding Animal Behavior for Effective Trapping

A successful trapper must understand the behavior, habitats, and habits of the animals they intend to trap. Animals are creatures of habit, often following the same trails to water sources, food, or shelter. Knowing where these trails are can significantly improve your trapping success.

(A path used by rabbits to go from their burrows to a nearby field, normally animals always use the same route until something happens to let them know it’s no longer safe)

Look for Signs of Activity:

Tracks, scat, chew marks, and disturbed vegetation can indicate that animals frequent a certain area.

Water Sources:

Animals need water, so setting traps near creeks, ponds, or other water sources can increase your chances of catching something.

Feeding and Nesting Areas:

Animals are likely to be found near food sources like berry bushes, nut trees, or areas with high vegetation. Identifying nesting spots or burrows can also be helpful.

Understanding these behaviors will inform where and how to set your traps for the best results.

Types of Bushcraft Traps

There are numerous trap designs in bushcraft, each suited for different environments and animal behaviors. Here are some basic, effective traps:

A. Figure-4 Deadfall Trap

The figure-4 deadfall is one of the most commonly used and simple bushcraft traps. It requires only a few sticks and a heavy object, such as a rock, to crush the prey. The trap is activated by the animal nudging the baited stick, causing the heavy object to fall.

How to Set a Figure-4 Deadfall Trap:

Find three sticks: one for the vertical support, one for the angled trigger, and one for the bait.

Carve notches into the sticks so they lock together in a “4” shape.

Place the heavy object on top so that the trap is primed and baited, ready to drop when triggered.

B. Spring Snare Trap

A spring snare uses a young, flexible tree or branch to snap up and capture an animal by the leg. This trap is commonly used for small animals like rabbits or squirrels.

How to Set a Spring Snare:

Find a young sapling or branch that can bend without breaking.

Attach a noose made of cordage or vine to the sapling, positioning it over a trail or burrow entrance.

Use a trigger mechanism (such as a peg) to hold the sapling down until triggered by the animal.

When the animal steps into the noose, the trap is triggered, and the sapling snaps back, capturing the animal.

C. Squirrel Pole Trap

The squirrel pole trap is a straightforward yet effective method for catching squirrels. It involves placing a series of nooses along a pole leaned against a tree.

(This is a classic rabbit snare trap, but the principle can be applied to a log leaning against a tree with multiple snare attached)

How to Set a Squirrel Pole Trap:

Find a sturdy pole and lean it against a tree with known squirrel activity.

Attach multiple nooses along the length of the pole.

When squirrels use the pole to climb, they’ll get caught in the nooses.

This trap can catch multiple squirrels simultaneously if positioned correctly.

D. Paiute Deadfall Trap

Similar to the figure-4 deadfall, the Paiute deadfall uses a different trigger mechanism that is easier to set up and potentially more effective.

How to Set a Paiute Deadfall Trap:

Like the figure-4, this trap requires a heavy object and a few sticks.

The difference lies in the trigger, which uses a small piece of cordage to hold the bait stick.

When the animal touches the bait stick, the cordage slips off, and the heavy object falls.

The Paiute deadfall is known for being sensitive, making it effective for smaller animals.

Trap Placement and Concealment

Setting traps in the right location is crucial for success. Here are some essential placement tips:

Follow Animal Trails:

Place traps directly on trails or near burrow entrances for animals like rabbits, squirrels, and rodents.

Near Food Sources:

Set traps close to feeding areas to increase the likelihood that animals will encounter your trap.

Concealment:

Conceal your trap to prevent animals from becoming suspicious. Use leaves, twigs, or soil to blend the trap into the surroundings.

Placement is everything in bushcraft trapping. Even the best trap won’t work if it’s not in an active area.

Choosing the Right Bait

Bait can greatly increase your chances of catching animals. The best bait depends on the type of animal you’re trying to attract:

Rabbits and Rodents:

Use nuts, seeds, or small vegetables like carrots.

Squirrels: Try nuts or peanut butter if you have access to it.

Carnivorous Animals: For animals like weasels or raccoons, meat scraps or fish work well.

Using bait carefully can increase your success rate. Be mindful of scent control, as human smells can deter animals from approaching a trap.

Essential Tools for Bushcraft Trapping

While many traps can be made with natural materials, a few basic tools can make the process easier and more efficient:

Bushcraft Knife: A sturdy knife helps with notching sticks, preparing bait, and processing animals if you catch them.

Cordage: Natural cordage can be made from vines, but paracord or twine is ideal for snare traps.

Axe or Hatchet: Useful for gathering materials or constructing larger traps.

These basic tools can make your trapping experience safer and more effective.

Safety Considerations in Bushcraft Trapping

Trapping can be dangerous if not approached with caution. Always keep these safety tips in mind:

Be Careful with Blades: Carving trap components requires careful knife handling. Always carve away from yourself.

Use Strong Cordage: Weak cordage can break and cause your traps to malfunction, potentially injuring you or wildlife.

Handle Animals Cautiously: If you successfully trap an animal, handle it with care to avoid bites or scratches.

Practice and Patience

Like any survival skill, bushcraft trapping requires patience and practice. Start by setting traps in controlled environments to develop your skills before attempting them in the wilderness. Practicing with different types of traps will also give you insight into which designs work best in various conditions.

Respecting Nature and Wildlife

Remember that bushcraft trapping should be done respectfully. If you’re trapping for practice, consider making non-lethal traps that allow you to observe animal behavior without causing harm. If you’re trapping in a survival situation, use every part of the animal to honor the resources nature has provided.