Bobcat Sets

Coil-spring foothold traps, longspring foothold traps, and cage traps are recommended for catching bobcats. See regulations for trapping in or near LPZs.

Bobcats can be trapped using many of the same sets that are used for foxes and coyotes.

Cubby Set for Bobcats

Place the bait at the back of the cubby with a bodygrip trap located in the bobcat's path to the bait. Refer to the current Montana furbearer trapping regulations for specific applications.

Blind Set for Bobcats

As with trapping mink, bed the foothold trap. Use sticks and stones to guide the bobcat into the trap because the bobcat will try to avoid stepping on these objects.

Flag Set for Bobcats

This type of set takes advantage of the fact that bobcats will try to reach a “flag” hanging from a tree.

• Make a flag from a piece of fur or some feathers.
• Using fine wire or a string, hang the flag from a tree limb so that it is about four feet above ground level.
• Pile dirt into a mound under the flag. The bobcat will climb the mound to try to reach the flag.
• Bury the foothold trap in the mound.

Trash Pile Set for Bobcats

Bobcats cover up their leftover food. Prepare this set to look like a bobcat's trash pile.

• Put the bait against a rock or a tree.
• Cover the bait with trash or litter.
• Put the foothold trap in front of the trash pile. Include sticks on the sides of the trap to guide the bobcat into trap.

Trail Set for Bobcats

Bobcat trails can be found along the base of a cliff, at the entrance to a den, or through holes in fences or brush. Along the trails, you can set either a bodygrip trap with bait or a powered cable device without bait or lures.

Cage traps also can be set around a bobcat's trails, den, and hunting sites.

• Cover the top and sides of the cage with brush. Cover the bottom with soil.
• Use only the bait that is allowed in your location. Refer to the current Montana furbearer trapping regulations for specific applications.