I would like to start out by saying this forum is excellent for information. However I have been browsing the archives for a good thread on this and can’t seem to find one, that doesn’t mean that it doesn’t exist though.

I am a first year trapper here in WV, I have access to one bottom in a valley, about 100 acres of hay fields with a river in the middle and some mixed timber along the edges. My question is how do i know how to combine lures and baits? I am trapping for predatory animals such as Reds, Greys, and Coyotes mainly. I also have 2 dog proofs, (Any bait info on these is welcome as well.)

For example, if I make a dirt hole, do I need to put bait in the hole every-time or just a lure? And if i’m just using a lure what kind? Call, Food? Flat sets, I am very confused on what kind of lures i need to be mixing or putting out. I just am having a hard time understanding the types of lures I need to be using and what combination for each set. Any info on any of this would be great, Thank you.

No set way of doing it. Everyone has a method that works for them. Let the animals teach you what works best for u.

Start with a couple and keep good notes it will tell you what they want. I always set 2 sets at a location usually one loud bait or lure and one sweet bait or lure

Predators are only out and about looking for 2 things. Each other or food. I would go with a Red Fox gland lure and a food lure to start with. Use the food lure for any remake after a catch. Either one can be used in a dirt hole or flat set. Keep it simple to start out with and focus on good set construction and locations. The lures will do their job if you do the fundamentals correctly.

I don't quite understand folks that use bait and lure at a set. How do you know which one piqued the interest of the coyote/fox?

Most commercial baits are not simply meat. They will have fatty acids like skunk fat, a musk like mink musk or muskrat gland, possibly urine, etc etc

Lots of the ingredients in your lure are already in your bait. If you are making dirtholes just put some bait down the hole and a shot of urine and roll on.

Flat sets are where your lure goes

This is just my opinion and what has worked for me. Good luck this season!

Do you have any lures you prefer for your flat sets? Or bait that you prefer for your dirt hole sets?

I get my stuff from Marty at Keg Creek Lures. His kick (This word is unacceptable on Trapperman) predator bait and his SS lure have been working well for me. He also sells real coyote urine, something that is hard to find these days. There are many reputable bait and lure makers out there, but I have not been disappointed in anything I have bought from Marty