Free hanging snares will be done for our RTLs here soon enough, but there’s metis that’ll still use em. Most don’t follow any rules anyway.

So,..this is okay I guess?

I would never join an association which would even consider the likes of me to be a member.
Having said that, I was at one time, years ago, a District Representative for the VTA against my will.
The former Representative for that district was elected President of the VTA.
One day I asked him who was the new District Representative once he vacated.
He said, "You are!"

I try to support the OTA ......it's a thankless job running one of these associations or foundations.....

A guy should help and or donate when possible

Lol … good on you partner

I only just started last year so I only belong to trapperman.

I disagree.

https://www.alaskatrappers.org/

here you go.

Trapping ain't a club; its a way of life. No membership required.
No one is taking it away anytime soon IMO.

How can getting common snares approved in one area and banned in another a win?

I guess if you’re now allowed to use them it’s a win for you. And a loss for the guys no longer allowed.

I guess the sticker MTA sends you in the mail makes you feel warm and fuzzy lol.

Most state associations have direct contact with their state's DNR/wildlife agency. Communication is made when laws/regs affecting them are being considered for change...at least here in Georgia..this is the case.

Public information and education (on a state/local level) is carried out by most associations at trade shows, schools, & other outdoor events annually.

Membership in your state association helps fund accurate and very important actions that directly affect what we love to do...TRAP!

If you don't support (at least your state) association, then you are dead weight and a freeloader.

Membership affords it's constituents a voice ,..it's encumberment of those to exorcise their concerns.

They took it completely away in California and curtailed it in a number States and it keeps getting worse.

They can "take it away" and put it on paper all day long. Really does not matter.
I guarantee you that there are people still trapping in California and don't care about that stupid law that cannot be enforced.

If the state of Texas banned trapping tomorrow, then I would give them a big middle finger and keep on trapping. Let them come stop me.

They don't have the time or resources to enforce such a ban. Just appeasing idiot liberal greenies and ticking off old men.

Trappers, our trade is under attack. If you don't feel like it's worth your time or money to be involved you will have nobody to blame except yourself when your rights to enjoy this lifestyle are finally taken away.

Agree!

A couple of comments about dues lining the pockets of someone. I have been either a director or an officer of the State or National organization for 25 years and it has done nothing but cost me money. All our money (WSTA) goes to lobbying, magazine and events to benefit the membership (Trapper Education, Trapper Workshops, Fur Sale and Rendezvous). I have never been reimbursed for travel, lodging or meals. What a great gig. I wouldn't change a thing but it does burn me to hear that for an excuse to not join.

When you can't sell your furs because trapping is illegal what will be your point for trapping even if you can dodge the law?

I Barely trap due to time constraints running a small business and raising a godly family, but I do love it (brand new this year, looking forward to next season and building fur shed)

I am with Nova scotia trappers association here in Atlantic Canada. It's only 20 bucks for a whole year, I spend that on coffee in a week so I'd like to see it go towards something I love. People aren't getting paid to put together rendevouz, host workshops, rent hall space or do the mentorships. the least I can do is support those folks being so selfless and teaching greenhorns like myself. I may even donate a good chunk anonymously at some point, not because I'm rich but because these guys love what we do, work tirelessly at it, line things up, defend our trapping rights as trappers seems to come under attack every so often. I know if I did that much logistical work at my job, there would be a pretty hefty bill attached.

I notice as well, hunters and fisherman aren't nearly ( I think ) as close knit as trappers are. it felt like family reunion at my first rendevouz rather than a meeting/workshop etc.

Just my two cents.

Carpenter

The Senneker/lightsout snares are approved in open areas, not the common snare…… I’m guessing you haven’t done much research into snaring in general……lol? The intent is to ensure a quick and humane kill.
I can probably get you a pen or get stickers made if you want, but I don’t think that’s the real reason you’re anti trapping associations? Something must’ve happened.

The NTA does not consider it a trade. It seems to be sportsmen's club. The problem with the trade is it doesn't earn enough to funnel money to the battles. Trapping would be far more acceptable as a trade similar to commercial fishing and those people make decent money and spend money to protect their livelihoods. BTW Comfish is always under attack, but not for what they do, but for how they affect the resource.