Coyote Trapping School Podcast artwork

Coyote Trapping School Podcast

113 episodes - English - Latest episode: over 3 years ago - ★★★★★ - 194 ratings

Kris Pope, from Coyote Trapping School, provides instruction and educational content for people interested in getting started, or getting better, at trapping furbearers and predators. Many people consider trapping a dying art, but there is still plenty of interest whether from outdoorsmen and women who are looking to further their outdoor skills, wildlife managers looking to enhance game populations through predator control, or survivalists interesting in knowing how to obtain food and fur in a survival situation. Follow along as Kris gives trapping industry updates, instructional information, and updates on his wintertime trapline. With a wide array of experience, from trapping artic foxes in Alaska to alligators in Florida, and a degree in wildlife biology, Kris’ passion lies in wildlife management and matching wits with wild critters near and far.

Wilderness Sports Education beaver hunting otter bobcat coyote coyotetrapping101 coyotetrappingschool fox furbearers furtrapping
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Episodes

61 - 2019/2020 Fur Market Outlook

October 09, 2019 03:10 - 24 minutes - 30.6 MB

In this episode I go through an email from John Zander, Zander Fur, discussing his outlook on the fur market for the upcoming season.  Overall there doesn't look to be alot of changes.  Looks like coyotes will still be hot, and some of the glut of ranch fur that has been on the market has been worked through, so maybe we are on the verge of the market rebounding somewhat.  Only time will tell!  I can assure you that regardless of what the market is doing, I will still be stringing steel and ...

60 - Trapping Ban and Mange

September 30, 2019 00:41 - 32 minutes - 40.2 MB

I know its a little late but in this episode I talk about my thoughts on the California trapping ban, which sets a scary precedent for all of us trappers.  Trapping has been under constant attack this past year especially and this is one major foothold for the antis.  I also field an email question about mange in coyotes, and mention a couple helpful resources.  

Ep 59 - "Mindset of a Pro" Book Review

September 20, 2019 11:40 - 39 minutes - 49.7 MB

In this episode I review Clint Locklear's book, "Mindset of a Professional."  This isn't a strategies and tactics book, but obviously by the title a mindset book.  It speaks to the many people that may start off with the outlook that being a professional trapper isn't realistic.  He goes through and breaks down how you could make a living fur trapping by state hopping, then gets into other ways of making trapping pay that can add to the fur income.  It is a book for an open minded trapper an...

Ep 58 - Arkansas Trapper Bruce Fires

September 11, 2019 05:00 - 58 minutes - 75.7 MB

In this episode I talk with Bruce Fires, and Arkansas trapper that just got started trapping coyotes last year.  For a beginnner Bruce had a great first season and we talk through some of the things he learned, where he got his information on getting started, and general coyote trapping topics.  

Ep 57 - Hoosier Trappers!!!

September 06, 2019 09:00 - 1 hour - 64.6 MB

In this episode I sit down with Mr. Charlie Masheck and Justin Jett from Hoosier Trapper Outdoors and we cover a little bit of everything, from out of state trapping to our favorite lures.  I really enjoyed getting to talk with two guys who are making a living from the fur industry! This is a long interview but I think you'll enjoy it!

Ep 56 - Kent Schank Interview

August 29, 2019 03:31 - 44 minutes - 54.9 MB

In this episode I interview western trapper Kent Schank, who goes by the Instagram handle @backcountry.sassn and also Fur Addicts on YouTube.  We talk western cat trapping, scouting, kids on the trapline, fur sales (amazing what some of those western cats bring!) and anti activity.  We cover a wide range of topics and as always its interesting to hear how other folks in other areas do things.

Ep 55 - Preseason Scouting

August 23, 2019 06:59 - 37 minutes - 46.8 MB

In this episode I talk through some preseason tactics for scouting, what to look for, and how you might approach selecting a trapping property differently.  Scat and tracks are the most commonly keyed on sign, but looking for major dispersal routes may be the key to really racking up fur in numbers.  

Ep 54 - "Master Wolfer" Book Review

August 19, 2019 02:21 - 56 minutes - 69.9 MB

In this episode I unveil my latest creation, and what my bigger/longer term goal hopefully is with this project.  I also review James Lucero's "Master Wolfer" book.  Mr. Lucero is a predator control trapper in New Mexico and has taken his share of coyotes.  This is definitely a book worth picking up, there are some real gems that I think will improve your coyote 'line!

53 - Jeff Hagerty - HAGz Brackets

August 07, 2019 03:47 - 1 hour - 106 MB

In this episode I interview Jeff Hagerty, creator of the HAGz Brackets.  We discuss his growing line of brackets, then dive off into other trapping topics.  We discuss some of the options for running a northern trapline, and some specific coyote tactics, including one of Jeff's favorite coyote sets.  Jeff is a great guy and this interview was a lot of fun.  You'll definitely pick up something to put to use on your trapline this season.    

52 - "Eastern Wolfer" Book Review

August 03, 2019 02:35 - 52 minutes - 66.2 MB

In this episode I review Clint Locklear's "Eastern Wolfer" book.  The short story is, if you trap in the East and want to improve your coyote trapping game, this book is worth the money for sure.  There are some views that are totally different from the standard eastern trapping perspective that we've heard for so long.  I am very excited to put the tactics from this book into practice this coming season, I've got high hopes for my catches this year!

51 - Summer Beaver Trapping

July 26, 2019 02:47 - 20 minutes - 25.5 MB

In this episode I talk through some of my thoughts and ideas around summer beaver trapping, first off the idea that I'm not a fan of summer trapping anything unless you are getting paid! Not only are you dealing with the heat but also turtles, snakes, and in some cases even alligators. There are things you can do to avoid these encounters, hopefully this will help you if you decided to give it a try.

Ep 50 - NTA Convention - Springfield Missouri

July 18, 2019 08:38 - 41 minutes - 52.4 MB

This year I took the time to drive to Springfield Missouri and attend the National Trappers Association Convention, and let me tell you it was well worth the drive!  There were a ton of vendors, great demonstrations by top trappers in the industry, and plenty of folks to talk trapping with.  If you ever get the opportunity to attend one of the national conventions I would encourage you to do it, and I've heard the ones farther north are even better!

Kids on the Trapline

July 10, 2019 04:20 - 26 minutes - 33.4 MB

With a young, and growing!!!, family it is important to me to get my son involved in the outdoors and trapping, in hopes that he will stick with it and appreciate the lifestyle that comes with it.  In today's world kids, and people in general, are more and more detached from the land and the realities of life.  Trapping is a great way to engage kids in an outdoor activity and keep them interested.  

Otter Trapping Episode 48

July 02, 2019 00:46 - 45 minutes - 57.1 MB

In this episode we talk otters and otter trapping. I guess you could say that I am a generalist when it comes to trapping, I like to target anything that is on the property that I am trapping, so when I'm water trapping if otters are present I am setting for them. To me they are like the coyote of the water, they are fairly easy to catch but sometimes it is a waiting game for them to come back through the area. When they do though and end up in your trap, man it is exciting! I hope this epis...

"Hoofbeats of a Wolfer" Book Review

June 24, 2019 11:00 - 47 minutes - 59.1 MB

In this episode I review the Craig O'Gorman book "Hoofbeats of a Wolfer."  This book is pretty well known among trappers, but it isn't the easiest book to get.  You have to order it direct from O'Gorman Enterprises, but if you are a serious coyote trapper, this book is worth the hassle.  There is a ton of great information from O'Gorman, a professional coyote trapper whose livelihood has been made from trapping coyotes for over 40 years.  You will definitely take some things away from this b...

"Hoofbeats of a Wolfer" Book Review

June 24, 2019 11:00

In this episode I review the Craig O'Gorman book "Hoofbeats of a Wolfer."  This book is pretty well known among trappers, but it isn't the easiest book to get.  You have to order it direct from O'Gorman Enterprises, but if you are a serious coyote trapper, this book is worth the hassle.  There is a ton of great information from O'Gorman, a professional coyote trapper whose livelihood has been made from trapping coyotes for over 40 years.  You will definitely take some things away from this b...

"Hoofbeats of a Wolfer" Book Review

June 24, 2019 11:00

In this episode I review the Craig O'Gorman book "Hoofbeats of a Wolfer."  This book is pretty well known among trappers, but it isn't the easiest book to get.  You have to order it direct from O'Gorman Enterprises, but if you are a serious coyote trapper, this book is worth the hassle.  There is a ton of great information from O'Gorman, a professional coyote trapper whose livelihood has been made from trapping coyotes for over 40 years.  You will definitely take some things away from this b...

Alabama Trapper Steve Wright - Episode 46 - Coyote Trapping School Podcast

June 17, 2019 11:34 - 49 minutes - 59.2 MB

In this episode I interview Alabama trapper Steve Wright.  I noticed him on Instagram, by the many coyote catch pictures he posts, and thought he could provide some valuable insight into his trapping strategy.  He didn't disappoint, this interview has some good tactics that I know I will be integrating into my trapline this coming season.  Hope you enjoy!

Downunder! Australian Trapper Chris Booby Interview

June 11, 2019 03:38 - 1 hour - 70.8 MB

In this episode I talk with Australian trapper Chris Booby, who operates CGB Vertebrate Pest Management, as well as It's a Dogger's Life YouTube and website.  We talk about the similarities and differences in trapping thousands of miles apart, for a different but similar species, and the Australian aspect of invasive species management versus the US aspect of fur trapping.  This was a really interesting interview and I hope you enjoy it as much as I did!

Preseason Trap Prep - Episode 44 - Coyote Trapping School Podcast

June 01, 2019 07:10 - 24 minutes - 32.3 MB

In this episode I talk through what I look for as I am getting my traps ready to be dyed and put up for the coming season.  They are pretty straightforward and simple, stake, tag, proper operation, on conibears the trigger.  I also started checking pan tension last year.  These are simple things but can make a difference when you are out on the line!

Well I messed up! - Ep 43 - Coyote Trapping School Podcast

May 27, 2019 04:14 - 29 minutes - 37.4 MB

Well I had a technical malfunction and didn't record an awesome interview I did with Loren Stallsmith of Circle S Leather, so in the meantime I talk about a couple recent issues that have come up around regulations.  More interviews to come!  And Happy Memorial Day!

Hog Trapping - Episode 41 - Coyote Trapping School

May 21, 2019 03:08 - 37 minutes - 46.3 MB

In this episode I delve into hog trapping, as I've just recently got my hands on some high tech hog trapping equipment.  I don't yet have much experience trapping hogs but a good friend of mine is a hog biologist that specializes in trapping them so I've leaned on him heavily for some hog trapping knowledge.  And I'll share with you what I learn along the way.

Coyote Ramblings - Episode 42 - Coyote Trapping School Podcast

May 16, 2019 02:51 - 29 minutes - 37.3 MB

In this episode I go through a recent article published in Quality Whitetails about a large coyote research project in the Southeast.  The article focuses on what the data means for managing deer, but I think the data could also help us as trappers learn more about the coyote and his habits.  I also touch on a few things I'm thinking of doing differently for the coming season, particularly some things that I've read in O'Gorman's Hoofbeats of a Wolfer book.

Catfishing - Episode 40 - Coyote Trapping School Podcast

May 07, 2019 12:13 - 56 minutes - 69.2 MB

One of my favorite summertime activities is catfishing, especially with trotlines, jugs, and limb lines.  Its like summertime trapping, except enjoyable!  And a great way to quickly fill the freezer.  It is very easy and cheap to do any of these methods, and you can even use a kayak or canoe and do them effectively too.  If you're itching to fill your trapping fix during the off season give one of these methods a try, just be sure you've got plenty of grease to release them into!

Summertime Coyote Trapping - Episode 39 - Coyote Trapping School Podcast

April 25, 2019 06:17 - 36 minutes - 45.7 MB

I've been getting a lot of questions lately about what bait and lure to use trapping in the summer.  In this episode I talk about some of the challenges of summer trapping and also give a run down of how to overcome those challenges, and some bait and lure thoughts.  Summer trapping is a little different than fur trapping, but you're still learning and adapting to the coyote's habits.  You just have to think about it a little different.  They are still very catchable.

Trapline Safety - Episode 38 - Coyote Trapping School Podcast

April 20, 2019 10:48 - 39 minutes - 49.4 MB

The trapline can take us to some remote places, often alone, in harsh conditions.  Many of us run farm country traplines where we are rarely out of sight of a house and never lose cell service.  Either way there are multiple hazards that can arise and being prepared can help to ensure you do not get stuck in a bad position and ensure you come home safely, all in one piece.  

Nuisance Trapping Part 2 - Episode 37 - Coyote Trapping School Podcast

April 12, 2019 11:26 - 34 minutes - 44.1 MB

This is the 2nd episode that I talk about nuisance trapping and how it pertains to fur trappers.  In this episode I dive deep into getting pricing and how to figure out how much to charge.  And we talk a little about marketing at the end too.  These 2 episodes should give you a starting point if doing nuisance trapping is something that interests you.  

Nuisance Trapping - Part 1

April 08, 2019 04:24 - 31 minutes - 38.6 MB

Once you get started trapping it is only a matter of time until someone wants to pay you to remove some of their critters.  This can be a great way to earn a little side money or even potentially work into a career change, but there are some things to consider and take care of before hand.  Hopefully over these next 2 episodes I can help at least point you in the right direction if this is something you have been considering.

Fur Tanneries - Episode 35 - Coyote Trapping School Podcast

March 27, 2019 05:00 - 12 minutes - 16 MB

There are multiple options when it comes to getting fur tanned, whether you're just wanting to get your first coyote tanned for a wall hanger or you want to get a batch tanned to try making things with. First off, no offense to taxidermists, but you're cheapest option is not to take it to a taxidermist. They are going to send it off anyway and you'll get charged from them too. Here are several tanneries that specialize in fur tanning, some I've used and some I haven't - USA Foxx - www.usaf...

Anti Activity - Episode 34 - Coyote Trapping School Podcast

March 21, 2019 03:16 - 23 minutes - 29.1 MB

The anti hunting and trapping groups have been hard at work pushing legislation to restrict hunting and trapping.  This seems the most active things have been in several years all at once and we must pay attention to what is going on if we hope to keep our ability to hunt and trap.  

Cheap Way to Start Trapping

March 14, 2019 03:41 - 17 minutes - 21.4 MB

A few episodes ago we talked about the cost of getting into trapping, and its not insignificant.  It is also a serious time investment as well.  But there is a way to dip your toe in the water and see if this is something you really want to get into.  Dog proof raccoon traps are a great way to dabble in trapping, not break the bank, and have fun along the way.  They are simple and easy to use and require very little maintenance.  

February 2019 NAFA Sale and Fur Prices

March 07, 2019 11:53 - 41 minutes - 51.1 MB

In this episode I discuss the results of the latest North American Fur Auctions fur sale, including how my fur from last season have sold since the July 2018 sale.  I also talk about some of the state association auctions in the southeast, which had pretty decent results compared to how I fared at NAFA.  Of course auction results will vary from year to year and auction to auction, nevertheless, this is a down year for everything except coyotes and cats.  

Fur Handling Equipment - Ep 31 - Coyote Trapping School Podcast

February 28, 2019 04:52 - 41 minutes - 52.3 MB

With trapping season winding down now is the time to be putting up and prepping your fur for the sales.  Here I give you a rundown of the different tools I use in my fur handling, from skinning through stretching and drying.  

How much does it cost to get started trapping - Ep 30 - Coyote Trapping School Podcast

February 22, 2019 04:02 - 28 minutes - 35 MB

There are plenty of hurdles to getting started trapping, a major one being the cost and equipment to buy.  In this episode I break down the cost of getting a bare bones setup to be able to start setting predator traps.  Its not as expensive as you might think.

Coyote Home Range Data - Ep 29 - Coyote Trapping School Podcast

February 14, 2019 05:58 - 46 minutes - 58.5 MB

In this episode I look at data from research projects across the southeast that analysed coyote home range patterns.  The average home range of coyotes can vary widely but generally hangs around 5,000 acres.  That is a pretty good chunk of land to cover.  

Trap Selection - Ep 28 - Coyote Trapping School Podcast

February 08, 2019 04:49 - 33 minutes - 41.1 MB

I get criticized and sometimes people feel they need to defend their use of cheap traps.  I've upgraded my traps since I started trapping, targeting top quality high performing traps, that do cost more than other traps.  But there are reasons that I like these traps, and most trappers as they gain experience realize the benefits of these traps.  But that doesn't mean you need those traps to get started now.  Better to start with cheap traps that you buy rather than daydream about trapping wi...

Trapline Ramblings - Ep 27 - Coyote Trapping School Podcast

January 30, 2019 14:07 - 55 minutes - 70.3 MB

In this episode I discuss several topics and answer several questions that I have been getting lately.  No real structure to this one, just me talking trapping and giving you some of my thoughts.  I hope everyone's season is going well.

Jeff Traynor - Furbearer Conservation - Ep 26 - CTS Podcast

January 23, 2019 06:00 - 1 hour - 54.6 MB

In this episode I talk with Jeff Traynor from Furbearer Conservation.  His website and focus is on supporting trapping through data and facts.  We have a really interesting discussion and this is definitely something that we as trappers need to pay more attention and utilize more readily.  Trapping truly is conservation and is used to manage invasive species as well as protect threatened and endangered species.  And there is evidence of this across the US.  

Robert Sevon - Ep 25 - CTS Podcast

January 16, 2019 05:01 - 46 minutes - 40.2 MB

In this episode of the Coyote Trapping School Podcast I interview Robert Sevon, who runs Lonely Den Trapping Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube.  We talk about trapping apps, public land trapping, a little coyote calling, we run the gamut and have a lot of fun.

Ep 24 - Jeremiah Wood - CTS Podcast

January 12, 2019 02:41 - 1 hour - 64.7 MB

In this episode of the Coyote Trapping School podcast I interview Jeremiah Wood from Trapping Today.com.  Jeremiah is a northwoods trapper from Maine, and we talk all manner of trapping topics, from martens to bears.  Jeremiah also hosts the Trapping Today podcast, so if you enjoy trapping podcasts be sure to check his out too.

Fur Market Update - Ep 23 - Coyote Trapping School Podcast

January 04, 2019 04:11 - 19 minutes - 18.2 MB

In this episode John Zander gives us an update on the current fur market.

Zander Fur - Ep 22 - Coyote Trapping School Podcast

December 27, 2018 14:44 - 43 minutes - 38.8 MB

In this episode I talk with John Zander from Zander fur, a 3rd generation fur buyer whose business is built around the fur industry.  We talk about the history of his family business and some of the intricacies of the fur market.  

Beaver Trapping - Ep 21 - Coyote Trapping School Podcast

December 20, 2018 05:41 - 47 minutes - 60.8 MB

In this podcast I give an overview of the different ways to target beavers.  Beavers are fun to trap and relatively easy to catch, but they can pose a challenge and get trap shy.  There are a variety of methods for targeting beavers and with the possibility of pickup up the occasional otter I find it hard to pass on an opportunity to trap beavers.

Starting a Trapping Channel - Episode 20 - CTS Podcast

December 13, 2018 07:43 - 35 minutes - 44.3 MB

I get questions from time to time about starting a trapping channel on youtube or how to grow or get more subscribers.  In this episode I talk about some of the potential options for starting and growing a channel, as well as some of the watchouts.  It isn't something that is easy, it takes patience and persistence.  Consistently producing quality content is the only way to grow, so be prepared for plenty of work.  But it is incredibly fun and rewarding.

Filming on the Trapline - Episode 19 - Coyote Trapping School Podcast

December 05, 2018 06:38 - 43 minutes - 58.7 MB

When I first started getting interested in filming and posting videos I searched all over to try and find some guidance.  I've picked up a few things here and there and this video is to give you and idea, if you're interested in filming your trapline adventures what you may want to look at in ways of video gear.  

Raccoon Trapping Basics - Episode 18 - Coyote Trapping School Podcast

November 28, 2018 10:28 - 48 minutes - 60.4 MB

This episode is a deep dive into raccoon trapping, different traps to use and what situations to use them in.  A good, basic introduction for beginners to raccoon trapping. 

Pan Covers - Episode 17 - Coyote Trapping School Podcast

November 21, 2018 12:00 - 13 minutes - 16.4 MB

Pan covers are a vital piece of a predator trappers tool box.  They prevent dirt and sand from filling in under your trap pan and keeping your trap from firing.  There are plenty of different options for pan covers, I recommend trying several and seeing which fits you best. 

Ohio Trapline - Episode 16 - Coyote Trapping School Podcast

November 15, 2018 11:49 - 31 minutes - 39.8 MB

In this episode I recap my recent trapping trip to Ohio.  I love getting the opportunity to trap new places with new people.  There is always something to learn running with another trapper and I encourage everyone if you get the opportunity to run the line with someone else, even just for a day.  You will definitely take something away and become a better trapper for it.  

Trapline Innovation - Episode 15 - Coyote Trapping School Podcast

November 08, 2018 01:11 - 14 minutes - 18.7 MB

As trappers I feel it is important to always be learning and keep an open mind.  I like to find at least 1 new thing each season to try to keep improving myself as a trapper, whether it is trying a new technique or a new piece of equipment.  My motto is always be learning! 

Nontarget Catches - Episode 14 - Coyote Trapping School Podcast

November 01, 2018 05:05 - 27 minutes - 34.6 MB

If you trap long enough you will encounter nontarget catches, whether they are other furbearers or another species.  It helps to have a plan ahead of time as to how you will deal with them and be prepared when the time comes.  Also knowing how you can set your traps to avoid certain nontarget catches is a good way to avoid having to deal with the issue.