The castor set IS my change up a lot of the time. When possible, I start out with blind sets. When possible, I only use blind sets. If there’s flooding and/or blind sets are fewer and farther between, I’ll use castor sets.


When I need a change up after I’ve started using lure, I’ll make mud pie/crawl out sets with no lure, or castor/oil from family members. A lot of people like using the colony members’ sac oil. I like to use their castor with a little sac oil mixed in, and I’ll put it somewhere that they’ll smell it. I check the weather forecast for the next day or two and I’ll put this set on the upwind side, just a small bit of mud and debris or, most times, just rub the castor/oil on a stick or branch above or beyond the trap. If dealing with a trap shy beaver, I will ONLY make the best sets that I can. This means putting a 330 in a pinch, because I don’t want to have all kinds of fencing, or, even better, a snare or foothold, or, my personal favorite, a Torp.

Indeed. Beaver aren't thinkers, lol. It is similar to trapping big giant muskrats.

Sounds like a good set. When using corn, you’re using a cob? Beavers here don’t see corn, but I wonder how they’d react to it. I’m going to have to try it. I really like the idea of using something that contrasts so well—-yellow corn against a dark bank

The trapper Is his own worst enemy when It comes to trapping beaver. Most go In like a bull In a china shop and think the beaver don't know what's going on.
THye may not be to smart but they know that something Isn't right.

When I'm on ADC job I scout It like some black opts operation. I don't even carry In any gear. But when I have It planned I'm In and out with as less disturbance as I can. This system works for me.

I might not be as sneaky when fur trapping but I do plan ahead before I start setting traps.