I think maximizing profits on the trapline start well before the critter is caught.
Depending on the critters targeted, many times trapping out of a car saves a lot on one of the biggest expenses.
This is true. I think we have to adjust our thinking.
I have several married kids and they are always talking about earnings, how much someone makes. I always tell them that's only one half of the equation. I currently earn less than I did at certain parts of my career, but I have more savings and cash on hand, because I have eliminated all debt, I've reduced my spending and conserved my resources.
While its good to think about different/new markets and ways to maximize what you can sell, don't forget the other half of the equation. How can you reduce expenses? Where can you cut costs without sacrificing quality or your catch? For example:
1. Can you make or supplement your bait/lure inventory at a lower price than buying retail? Can you trade for some of these items?
2. Can you make your own equipment instead of buying it at retail?
3. Can you organize your trap line to be more efficient? Avoiding dead end lines and instead using circles; setting up small lines that you can check going to or from work; etc. On my cat line, I use WildRiver enlarged pans with corn cob grit glued to them. It may sound small but I not only don't have to keep coming up with new pan covers, but I never have to go looking for them, or forget one after I've climbed to the top of a rim to make a set. All those little things will add up at the end.