Trapping in Manitoba

Trapper Responsibilities

Trapping is a privilege - not a right. Maintaining public acceptance of trapping as a legitimate job is the responsibility of trappers and resource managers. The trapper's responsibilities include the following:

Take furbearers in the most humane manner.
Avoid capturing non-furbearing animals.
Maintain a high degree of proficiency in pelt preparation.
Use a kill-type trap to harvest marten,weasel, mink and muskrat when taken on land.Kill-type sets for otter and beaver should be fully submerged.When a squirrel is harvested, other than by snaring or shooting, a kill-type trap should be used.
Use underwater sets wherever possible for aquatic species. Proper locks and slide wires set in a sufficient depth of water should be used on all hold and drown-type shore sets.
Ensure that padded leghold traps set on land are secured to a drag of sufficient weight and strength.
Ensure that snares set on land are equipped with proper locking devices.
Inspect live-holding devices daily in the early morning. Make only as many sets as you can effectively manage.
Identify trap and snare "set locations"and carefully record them on a map.
When trapping on private land, always ask permission and provide the landowner with a map showing the location and the types of traps and snares used.
Know and use proper releasing and killing methods.
Dispose of animal carcasses properly.
Respect the rights and property of others and assist landowners with removal of problem wildlife.
Encourage and support trapper education and public-awareness programs.
Promptly report the presence of diseased animals to the nearest department office.
Protect and conserve wildlife and its habitat.
Respect and obey laws.

Wildlife Branch

Trapping in Manitoba

Trapper Responsibilities