Ok southern guys, I know our raccoons are not the same as raccoons as in Iowa, or the same coyotes are not the same size as Montana. So what is a good board size? I have seen for large or small sizes but is there a happy median? Is there something besides ordering so many different sizes? I’ve got some greys, coyotes, and coons mostly.

Hey Tsouth87, I'm not to far north of you in Kentucky, and believe the FHA board sizes are a better fit for southern fur....The larger NAFA boards for fox (especially gray fox) and coyote run pretty big for this section for sure.

Awesome advice I appreciate it. I was worried about that so I have been hesitant about buying any. What about wire stretchers? Are there a certain size/brand better than others?

Glad to help, I like the discontinued Peerless wire stretchers that you can still buy at the conventions, etc....Sleepy Creek are good, and Funke Trap Supplies are making them now I think.

The sizes are numbered, for example #4 for Fox and Coon, etc. and the people selling them can guide you on what size for each critter.

Most of the wire stretchers are too wide as they come from the factory, but you can squeeze down the nose area to get the desired taper to form your fur.

Lots of good fur handling videos out there, also state trappers assoc, and local trappers are great resources to learn from.

Also, On the wood boards....Top Lot Stretcher will make your boards to FHA Spec if you ask....Great Company.

Try these, www.GrawesLures.com. They have a big selection of good basswood boards at good prices. I have a few and plan on getting more. Just about any size you want. Lots of sizes. Sm, Med, Lg etc for each critter