I drew a tag again this year in Wisconsin. I used my mb550 traps two years ago, and they are quite rusty looking.

I am only after a bobcat. Do I need to get rid of the rust on the traps. I assume they will operate alright with surface rust on them? Do you guys normally talk about getting rust off of them because of the smell? Maybe coyotes can smell them.?

I'd be more worried about the overall function and longevity of the trap than the smell of rust. I'd dye and wax or dip if I was you. Just my opinion.

This. Rust destroys springs and traps.

Cats don't care if they are new untreated, painted or dyed. Just make the pan where it easy for them to step on

There just right as long as they go off. You pit them human sewage and still catch a cat. Will not hurt a thing .
Do not get caught up on the the BS.
More of a cat is cat than anything ,( they do what they do)

Thank you much for the responses. I appreciate it.

I assume that you wouldn't discard a coyote if you caught it as a non-target while pursuing bobcat? If dying and waxing will extend your traps life span, and possibly snag a dog or two as a non-target, ......dye and wax them.

I would take care of traps that cost nearly $20 each so they will work for you a long time. As to the bobcat and rust, I doubt they care one iota. Many trappers in dry climates don't even cover cat traps.

Bryce