Mink Sets (cont.)

The following types of sets are effective with mink.

Waterline Den Set

Almost every waterline den that is partly out of water will attract passing mink. These dens house crayfish, frogs, and minnows during cold weather.

• Set the trap in the mouth of the den. If the water is too deep, move the trap into the den where it can be placed 2" under the water.
• The best trap for this set is a bodygrip trap. Depending on the type of trap, the square or round frame will cover the hole and must be camouflaged lightly with grass or other plants.

Blind Set (Trail Set or Natural Set)

By following mink tracks, it is possible to find bottlenecks in their path. These are places where the mink passes through a narrow opening, such as under tree roots or between rocks. If you don't find a natural bottleneck, you can create one using rocks or logs. The mink is a creature of habit and will follow the same route repeatedly. A well-placed trap at a natural or man-made bottleneck will catch the mink on its next trip.

To set your trap:

• Dig a shallow bed at the narrow spot.
• Set a foothold trap in the bed. Bed the trap firmly in the mud. No bait or lure is needed.
• Use a sliding wire or tangle stake to make a submersion system.

Blind sets are also good sets for muskrats and raccoons.

Obstruction Set for Mink

This is a variation on the blind set. In this case, you are looking for a place where the mink is forced into the water by a tree, rock, or other obstruction across the stream bank.

• Bed a foothold trap in the shallow water at this point.
• Use a sliding wire or tangle stake.
• No bait or lure is needed.