What size snares would you all recommend for beavers?
(Keeping in mind otters also frequent the creeks around my home.)
Getting ready for some more winter excursions!!

5/64th 1x19 40" before a inline swivel.

Thanks my man!!

If you are fastening on the bank I woul put them on a drowner. If under the ice setup no need.

Yeah - have used some MB 750's on drowning rods, but wanted to try some snares. Never have done much with snares so looking to expand on that. Just a lot less weight to pack around.

Thanks for the advice!

Check the Illinois rules. They are kind of different.

Yeah - I have... like dam breaks... a big a no-no...
But thanks for the reminder!! Appreciate your concern!!

It is unlawful to:
• place, set, use or maintain a snare unless at least half of the loop is underwater at
all times. When set, the snare loop must be 15 inches or less in diameter. Snares
must be constructed of cable that is at least 5/64 inch, but no more than 1/8 inch in
diameter, and must be equipped with a mechanical lock, anchor swivel and stop
device that prevents the snare loop from closing to less than 2 ½ inches in diameter.
• use or possess cable or wire snares constructed of stainless steel metal.

5/64's 1x19 is a good all around size for snaring different critters. All I have used for many years.

Don't snare a ton of beavers but fast loaded snares made of 4' of 7x7 3/32" cable with a mini cam lock is all we use (deer stop, and metal wammy too). Never had a beaver escape it and over 90% neck snared with a 7-8" loop. No need IMO for a bigger loop.

~ADC~

Thanks ADC!!

I also use 7x7 3/32 Cable with either a small washer lock or a sure lock with a 7-8" loop. Works for me. I snagged 79 Beaver last season doing it that way. Yes I forgot to mention the deer stop. I just measure my 2 1/2 loop as I make all my Snares for Coon,Beaver Fox and Coyotes.

For the deer stop that is 2 1/2" ,to make sure you got the right open on it ,use a dip canister of the one that is to dip tobacco.That is what size the open is of 2 1/2" .I learn that from a game warden years ago for how they check the deer stop is open enough.As for size that your laws are 10" across will work.

Wouldn't a ~7" loop catch too many otter? Just curious.

Yes, but have only caught 1 Otter ever in a Beaver Snare on a Crossover [Dang Water Wolf!!!] Lucky I Guess!!!

Never caught one in one yet. I'm sure it could happen but a bigger loop is only going to get them by the hips, same as the beaver often times.