The dog issue i think is in my head more than anything. similar to the question of which direction do you place the dog on a blind set for coyotes. If the trap is bedded and covered properly the difference is random to a certain extent. But i do believe in listening to myself sometimes but also proving myself right or wrong. meaning If i think that might be an issue i would set them and others and see if there is a difference. I have proven myself wrong many a time. I once thought dog proofs were a waste and the only thing you ever needed to catch coon was a 1.5. Now i certainly set more dog proofs than 1.5's for coon. Each has there own place compared to my style.
I was curious about the 3/8 rod being different as well like you are talking Beav. I use construction site stakes as they are free dollars in my neck of the woods and my job. I take a 1x4 and cut it 7" long and cut a notch in it to slide vertically on the stake. Then i drill holes every inch up and down the stake. I set my trap on the platform and lower it into the water and then stick a nail through whatever hole i want to use to stick my bait to. It is a crude system and has its flaws for sure. especially when coon get in them but it works well enough for free right now. the stake actually blends in well in the cattails i set it. My issue is as i plan on getting a larger line and gameplan together the thought of handmaking 100 of these and carrying them around makes my skin crawl.
Some think it might be overthinking but i rather enjoy the thinking part of it. Trapping that is.
