Foothold Traps: Types

Types of foothold traps are described and illustrated below.

Underspring or jump traps are an old style of foothold trap. They are no longer manufactured.

Longspring traps are commonly used.

• These traps are large and heavy. The size is a disadvantage in hiding the trap. The weight is an advantage when used in a submersion set.
• Single longspring traps are best for small animals such as muskrats or mink.
• Double longspring traps are better for large animals such as beavers.

Note: While this is the typical "off-the-shelf" configuration, it is not a legal configuration for Montana. Refer to the furbearer regulations manual for details.

Coil-spring traps also are common.

• These traps are smaller than longspring traps. This is an advantage when space is limited.
• Coil-springs have two small springs and are the fastest type of foothold trap. Their speed, strength, and small size make them good traps for foxes, coyotes, and bobcats.
• Some trappers add two extra springs to increase trap strength and stability. This is known as “four-coiling.”
• Many modifications can be made to affect the performance of these traps.

Guarded traps have a spring-loaded guard attachment. This attachment prevents a trapped animal from escaping or injuring itself while trying to escape. These traps often are used when seeking muskrats in shallow water, where a killing device will not work. However, killing devices or submersion sets are preferable for trapping muskrats whenever possible.

Enclosed foothold traps are designed for particular species, especially raccoons and opossums. The animal must reach its foot through a small opening to be trapped. This eliminates almost all unwanted catches.

• These traps come in various styles and are available from many different manufacturers.
• Some states require you to use enclosed foothold traps.