As a licensed trapper, I’m…

As a licensed trapper, I’m encouraged by the recent proposed regulatory changes. Simplifying reporting periods and officially permitting the sale of beaver castor are both bold, practical moves that acknowledge our role in wildlife management.

We trappers cherish every moment spent in the woods and swamps, working to maintain a healthy, balanced ecosystem. Humane dispatch of animals targeted for their pelts has always been our top priority, and these new rules reinforce that commitment.

Extending dispatch hours into the evening recognizes that many trappers hold full-time day jobs. Allowing after-dark work has been met with relief across the community, as it gives us the flexibility to operate responsibly without sacrificing our livelihoods.

Finally, authorizing center-fire handguns for dispatch is a game-changer—especially in late fall, winter, and early spring. Hauling a long rifle plus traps and gear through swampy terrain can be cumbersome, particularly for older trappers. A compact handgun not only lightens the load but also upholds the same humane standards we've always valued.

Together, these updates simplify compliance, enhance safety, and demonstrate respect for both wildlife and the trapping community.