Trapping the Mink

Mink are found throughout North America and are small: between 1 and 4 pounds.  They are semi-aquatic and even though they are on land a lot, most trappers trap them near water.  Finding tracks at the edge of the water is the best way to know if mink are around and of coarse, after snowfalls.

A lot of mink are caught in muskrat and raccoon sets.  In fact, the muskrat trail and den sets are good mink sets as the muskrat is part of Mr. Mink's diet. These types of sets are called blind sets as no bait is used.  The Mink also eats any small mammals, fish, frogs, etc. 

Traditional  Trapping Methods

The mink is very investigative as it moves along a stream or river and will investigate every hole and stump.  A set called "the pocket set", can be constructed to take advantage of this habit of the mink. Find a location where the stream bank is nearly vertical and dig a hole approx. 7 inches in diameter and 12 to 16 inches deep at a slightly upward angle.  Place a #1 or #1 1/2 Longspring or Coilspring slightly to one side of the hole with about an inch or two of water over it.  As with all water sets make sure to make a drowner set.  Use variations of this pocket set meaning; at some sets put a piece of muskrat or other bait, no bait, and some with lure.  Use what works best for you.

A set that I have had a lot of success with is culvert sets. Simply place a leghold or conibear guarding a small culvert, be patient and give the mink a chance to travel through.  

8241 Live Trap 1 Door 8" x 8" x 24" Rabbits & Squirrels