Public Acceptance

The future of trapping also depends on continued public acceptance of trapping as a legitimate activity.

Trapping is a good form of recreation. Trapping also is an effective way to manage furbearer populations. Experienced trappers know this as well as anyone. They must carry this message to non-trappers.

How trappers practice their sport probably will weigh more heavily in the public mind than any other factor.

• A single trapper who fails to get a landowner's permission can close a productive trapline to everyone.
• All the words written about the virtues of trapping may be wasted on the person who observes just one animal trapped irresponsibly.

Most people willingly pay insurance premiums to protect their own health and to provide for the future of their loved ones. Trappers also must pay “premiums” to ensure the health and longevity of their sport. They can do this by:

• Learning the facts of scientific wildlife management
• Speaking up for wildlife in land-use decisions
• Educating others on the merits of trapping
• Obeying laws and following the Code of Ethics for Responsible Trapping
• Insisting that other trappers behave legally and ethically