New to trapping. I have been told to always cage trap with a catch pole. Not that it’s legally required but it gives very helpful options. This from the instructor to all the seasons guys. My question is there a specific one that is better for those of us that run cages? I went with the quality with a katch all 4’. Only thing I found is having to partially having to open the door if needed. It’s this the best option or is there a better option?

Thanks

A lot of guys have started building cages with open slats on the door so a catch pole can be easily inserted into cage. I find there's really no need for a catch pole when cage trapping unless you're going to use it for dispatch.

Thanks. I’m out in a semi urban area and several hours before sunrise hence the dispatch option when needed. I’ll look or make one handy for that specific need.

https://www.wildlifecontrolsupplies.com/animal/NB-BOBCAT.html

Not sure what brand of cages you run but the link above shows a cold rolled rod door which makes it easier to insert catch pole. Perhaps you can modify your door a little to accommodate your catch pole.

Seems i would do slot in top of cage instead of door if just dispatching

That’s basically what I’m running. The head of the pole is bigger then the slots. I’ll prob make a smaller one specific for this need. I have the material in my shop already. Now just finding the time to tinker.

You can always make slot any size ya want in top & reinforce with 1/4" bar with weld or hog rings

If it was me and I wanted to dispatch from a cage I would use the following system that has worked for me. I have a cage guard that I drop in the trap and that keeps the animal in the back of the trap. My traps are 12 by 12 by 30. I put a Belisle 160 into my 7 ny 7 by 16 inch cubby and I open the door and put the cubby in the trap about 4 inches. I put a stake through the cubby to hold it tight and lift out the guard and walk away. I only had one out of 16 back into the trap. I did have one cage with two in and that made things interesting but it sure works well with no firearm issues.

Bryce