trapping memories

[island guy]

Altho I have not trapped for over 30 years, I really enjoy the trapping posts. Brings back a lot of fine memories.

This past weekend I had the treat to sit down with my best friend and trapping buddy from high school days. In the 1960's we would run a line together. We started out with a dozen #1 victors and permission to trap muskrats on a small slough close to home. Our trapping passion grew and we soon added to our line and equipment. By the time we were 14 we had 50 traps and several areas to trap. All our line was within 5 miles of our home. We would throw our wicker packs on and ride our bikes to run our line. By the time we were 16 and could drive, our line ran 100 traps and a 20 mile radius of home. Muskrats and mink were our main target. If our grades were good, our folks would let us skip a few days from school to run our line.

We learned so much from those days. Love and respect for the land. Budgeting our fur sales to cover expenses. Developing relationships with farmers whom land we trapped. Responsibility in making sure our traps were always checked every day, and preparing our take for sale. Caring for and maintaining our equipment.

Times have changed. I know that. But it saddens me to think so many young folks don't have the opportunity or the want to experience the outdoors. I think the average age of licenses purchased show a alarming decrease in young folks hunting, fishing, and trapping. I'm not sure how that effects the future or what the answer is.