Bodygrip Traps

In recent years, the bodygrip trap has become more popular. When a furbearer passes through this type of trap, one or two rotating jaws strike the animal’s neck or chest, and the animal is caught in a body hold that usually kills quickly. These traps may be powered by one or two springs. Bodygrip traps operate in a manner similar to a mousetrap.

• Bodygrip traps are useful and efficient. They generally are used in water sets for mink, muskrats, and beavers.
• On land, large bodygrip traps may capture or kill pets or non-target wildlife. For this reason, some states and provinces allow large traps to be used only in water sets. Smaller traps may be permitted on land, but they must be used with great care to prevent the death of non-target animals.
• When using large bodygrip traps, it is best not to trap alone. It can be difficult to release a trap if you accidentally close one on your hand or arm. Trap with a partner whenever possible.
• Bodygrip traps come in many sizes. Some of the most commonly used are:
  • #110 for muskrat, weasel, and mink
  • #120 for muskrat, raccoon, mink, skunk, American marten, and opossum
  • #220 for nutria, beaver, raccoon, skunk, American marten, fisher, northern river otter, and opossum
  • #330 for beaver and northern river otter
• Some states and provinces limit jaw spread on bodygrip traps. Before setting traps, check local regulations to avoid acting unlawfully.
  • For dry land sets, 4½" is the usual jaw spread limit.
  • For water sets, jaw spread greater than 7" is illegal in most areas, except during beaver season.
  • During beaver season, some areas require traps with a jaw spread greater than seven inches to be submerged completely.
  • See the page “Measuring Jaw Spread” for instructions on how to measure the jaw spread.