How to Set Duke Traps

Nuisance animals such as coyotes can be dispatched with traps.

Duke is a leader in animal trap manufacturing, maintaining the world's largest market share of game traps, according to DukeTraps.com. The most commonly used animal traps are body traps and coil spring or "foot traps." These traps are used primarily for trapping nuisance or predatory animals such as coyotes and beavers. They are also highly effective for trapping smaller game animals for fur. Setting the Duke foot and body traps should be done with extreme caution to avoid injury.

Things You'll Need

• Trap setting tool
• Hammer
• Trap ground stakes
• Bait

Instructions

Body Trap

1. Place the trap out flat on the ground in your desired trapping location. Ensure that the trigger dog and trigger are on top. Pull the ground chain out straight.

2. Fold the coil springs out at the sides of the trap. Hammer a ground stake into the ground, through the ground stake ring. Ensure that the ground stake ring is securely hooked to the stake.

3. Pinch the coil spring together using a setting tool. Latch the J-hook over the compressed spring while holding it with the setting tool. Repeat for the other coil spring.

4. Grab the trap top with the setting tool. Pull upward to expand the trap and allow the trigger to dangle. Latch the trigger dog over the trigger.

5. Place the bait on the ground, under the trap trigger. Unhook the J-hooks from the coil springs. The trap is now set.

Foot Trap

1. Stake the trap to the ground securely using a stake. Hammer the stake through the stake ring and ensure that its secure.

2. Stand on the trap levers with your feet to prop up the jaw. Pull the jaws apart.

3. Set the dog on top of the jaw. Push down hard on the trigger dog with your thumb. Reach underneath the loose jaw. Raise the trap pan. Reach under the jaw to place bait onto the pan using extreme caution.

Tips & Warnings

• Scout out the area thoroughly and observe tracks and foraging trails prior to setting your traps. This will enhance trapping success.

• Only use traps where accepted by your local laws and ordinances. Consult with your state wildlife or fish and game department prior to setting traps.

References

• Duke Traps: Traps
• Youtube: Setting Body Traps
• Wild-About Trapping: Setting Foot Traps