Trapping Today Podcast #39: Neil Olson’s Trappers Weekend

Trapping Today Podcast #39: Neil Olson’s Trappers Weekend

Author: Trapping Today August 19, 2018 Duration: 1:26:15
In this episode, Cole Porter and I discuss our experiences at Neil Olson's 42nd annual New England Trappers Weekend in Bethel, Maine.  The episode is recorded on the car ride home, so you'll notice some background noise and a few distractions, but I think we had a great conversation about what we picked up from the event. In my mind, there are three aspects to a trapper's convention: 1) the people you meet and reunite with, 2) the things you learn from other trappers and demonstrations, and 3) the traps and supplies you get stocked up on.  We discussed each of these topics, from a couple of different perspectives. The main theme I picked up on from this convention was the idea that competition is good, if it's fair and you allow it to motivate you. Some of the highlights of the weekend were the chance to meet and learn from Red O'Hearn, Mark Zagger and Gary Jepson, and a series of other demonstrations that we learned at least one or two things from.  We got to catch up with several guys we met last year, and scored some pretty good deals on supplies, though we spent too much money like we always tend to do at shows. This is a long podcast and we covered a wide variety of topics, so feel free to let me know if there's something we could explain better or go into more detail on.  And be sure to support our sponsor, Kaatz Bros. Lures.  Their support for the show is what keeps bringing you new episodes each week. Thanks and enjoy!

Trapping Today is a voice for a hands-on, often misunderstood craft, moving beyond the basics to explore the realities of modern trapping. Hosted by practitioners deeply embedded in the community, this podcast delivers timely updates on regulatory shifts, fur market trends, and essential news for both fur harvesters and those involved in Animal Damage Control. Each episode digs into practical, field-tested methods, discussing specific sets, gear modifications, and animal behavior insights that can refine your approach. The conversation acknowledges the evolving landscape of the tradition, balancing respect for heritage with contemporary ethics and effectiveness. It’s a direct line to experienced perspectives, where nuanced tips and candid discussions about challenges replace simple how-tos. For anyone committed to the craft, whether managing wildlife conflicts or pursuing fur, Trapping Today serves as a crucial, ongoing dialogue. You’ll find a focus on actionable knowledge and a clear-eyed view of what it means to trap today, making this podcast a regular resource for honing skills and staying informed within a dedicated community.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 251

Trapping Today
Podcast Episodes
A Full Fur Shed: Maine Trapper Brian Bernosky [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 1:38:51
In this episode I chat with Maine trapper Brian Bernosky. Brian balances running a trapline with a full time job and raising a family in central Maine. He put up huge numbers of beavers this season and has some tips to s…
An Evolving Fur Market, with Kyle Kaatz [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 1:10:13
Listen in as Kyle Kaatz and I talk about the ever changing fur market, prices for different fur items sold at the recent Fur Harvesters Auction sale, and thoughts on how the market is changing, and may need to change mov…
2024 Fur Price Update: Did The Market Hold Up? [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 54:52
In this episode I talk about preliminary results from the March 2024 Fur Harvesters auction. In short, the beaver market continues to be very strong, otter prices are surprisingly high, marten and fisher are the best I'v…
So, You Want to be a Wilderness Trapper? [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 1:01:56
In this episode we talk about the reality of Alaska wilderness trapping, the logistics required, the costs and the sacrifices you need to make to live the lifestyle. We discuss different types of Alaska trapline setups a…
Changing Weather and Making Memories: Podcast Episode 246 [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 38:35
In this episode we talk about FHA's March auction quantities, the beaver market, the changing weather patterns and how we as trappers need to adapt, and making memories with family on the line. Enjoy! Support our Sponsor…
Stinky Lure, River Beavers and Starter Traps [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 42:23
In this episode we talk listener questions, including how to stay married while using skunky call lure, sets for beaver trapping in rivers, trap and lure choices for fox, and more. Enjoy! Support our Sponsors:Kaatz Bros.…
Non-Target Catches and Beginner Advice: Podcast Episode 243 [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 1:15:03
In this episode we talk about non-target catches, how to avoid them, the true extent of non-targets vs what is perceived by the anti's, and how to minimize issues when you do catch non-target animals. We also discuss som…