When you make your step down dirthole or stepdown trench sets how far below the ground level is your pan?

Check your mail box

I would suppose I dig min about 4-5” it really seems to help deter the deer from snapping traps, but at the same time it turns into a swimming pool in the Iowa weather. I only dig stepdowns if it looks like conditions are favorable for at least a week.

adverse weather is its weakness
Mine are probably that 4 to 5 inches down also.
I think every type set has its advantages and its disadvantages for us trappers its about understanding them and managing them

My step downs are about 3" deep. Unlike others i dont have much moisture to deal with and it is a really good standard set for me here. It might rain once during a 6 month trapping season.

My favorite set as it naturally guides them. 3 to 4 down.

Around here it may not be raining, sleeting or snowing once during our 5 month season.

LOL.

I'd say it varies and I don't measure it. Kind of like the 9 inches back and 2-3 to the right or left rule. I don't waste any time measuring things and just let the set dictate what I do. Below ground level is the best answer I can give you.