I am new to trapping and did a lot of reading before I got started. I have 2 MB-550s and 10 DP traps. I have coyotes, fox, and bobcats in my area. Plus lots of Raccoons. So far I have caught 8 raccoons and 2 possums in my DP traps, but no coyotes. Question 1) what would be stealing my bait in the DP traps? even in the pan and not setting them off? I am using small marsh mellows. Question 2) what kind of a trail is this coming out from under this bridge? I took a picture of the trail, then turned around 180 degrees and took the other picture. Off to the left is a deep channel creek we have been trapping along.

You won't catch the yotes in a dog proof. If bait is gone its mice. What sets are you using for the 550 ? Pinch points and set them on sign. Tracks , scat signs of a kill. When you get snow hit the are walking. Look for travel paths.
Good luck. Mix up your DP baits. Some fish based some sweet. You will connect on possums until they are gone.
Good luck.

Thank you. I am looking at trails, places where things converge like edge of a field, fence line etc. I am using dirt hole sets with commercial trap bait and some coyote urine on my backing. I think they look pretty good. I have been using a sifter on some peat moss. Let me get some pics of my sets.


Them darn mice!!! Will they get into the pan and take marsh mellows?

Thanks to all for helping me.

In my country that would be multi purpose trail. Primarily coon but used by skunks and possums too. It’s fairly wide open so wouldn’t be used extensively around here by fox.

The 2 pictures above are on my property, about 15 yards from a fence that has an active coyote trail. I am proud to say the trap is firmly bedded. Still no luck though.

Looks good t-kat...bed that trap solid...before covering.

X2

I would not set 15 yards from a coyote trail, I would set on the coyote trail.

Put the dog proofs on the trail so the coons trip over them.

Maybe set your trap a little further back from your dirt hole. Admittedly I'm used to spacing everything for wolves, but even then I hold things back a little in case they aren't willing to commit fully. I also like to hang some snares in the surrounding area to pick up any that circle from a distance, or hang back to wait for their pack member that's hung up

Thank you fellas. Its been an interesting journey, especially given I have learned 99% of it on the internet

I would guess mostly coon too, but some of the others you mentioned as well.

Get some eye appeal also If you kill a duck chicken and kind of feathers scatter them around set. I normally put a rock or peice of wood fir backing