Best Locations for Trapping Muskrats Along Rivers?

Choosing the Right Location

When selecting a location for muskrat trapping along a river, look for areas with a mix of shallow and deep water. These areas often have a variety of vegetation, including submerged aquatic plants and emergent vegetation like cattails and water lilies. Muskrats tend to prefer these areas because they provide both shelter and access to food sources like aquatic plants and small invertebrates.

Setting Up Your Trap

To effectively trap muskrats in these areas, set up your trap in a location where the muskrat is likely to pass through. Typically, this is near the edge of a submerged vegetation bed or at the transition zone between shallow and deep water. Use a sturdy trap with a strong scent attractant, such as fish oil or muskrat lure, to lure the muskrat into the trap. Place the trigger on the upstream side of the trap to allow the muskrat to enter the trap without triggering it.

Best Trap Types and Settings

The best trap types for muskrat trapping are usually foothold traps or conibear traps, set in a location where the muskrat is likely to pass through. Foothold traps are suitable for areas with dense vegetation, while conibear traps are better suited for areas with faster-moving water. When setting the trap, use a trigger weight of 5-10 pounds to ensure that the trap is triggered by a muskrat, but not by smaller animals like raccoons or otters.