School Days: Boy Has New Favorite Pastime

Cory Farnsworth, 16, Moab, Utah

A young Utah trapper is addicted to the thrill of the trapline and working in the fur shed

was introduced to trapping by my grandpa when I was 6 or 7. I’ve helped since then to rid his garden of skunks, squirrels and raccoons.

I got interested in the real game of trapping in 2010. I took the furharvesters class, got my license and bought tags and lures. During school, my mind was always running to the mountains and enticing a big coyote or bobcat to a perfectly made set. After school, I would rush through my homework and read magazines that had anything to do with trapping.

I was constantly looking for tracks and good locations for sets at the ranch while I was working. Every year, the coyotes get into the calves and wreak havoc.

One day, I was checking traps and our dog went nuts. I looked up and saw a snared coyote. It was bristled up and jumping all over. I shot it just before our little dog got in a bad tangle. As I was carrying it up the hill, I felt eyes on me. This is normal if it’s dark. I shined the flashlight on the fence and I caught the sight of a bobcat. I shot it and carried it and the coyote to the truck.

My winter was filled with the fun and excitement of trapping, skinning, washing and prepping the furs. I was able to make the furs look really nice with the help of my dad’s tumbler. We made our own stretcher and then sold the hides. All of this was very hard work, but I wouldn’t trade it for anything. I caught two bobcats and three coyotes in snares. I only caught two raccoons in the footholds.

Thanks to my family and friends that have helped me along the way. I have found a new favorite thing to do. I can’t wait until this season!

“School Days” is sponsored by Duke Traps and the Wisconsin Trappers Association. Winners receive six traps, a Wisconsin Cooperative Trapper Education video, an NTA handbook and a membership to their state’s trappers association. To be considered, send a 300- to 500-word story and photo of the trapper or hunter with a catch, kill, fur or trap to: School Days, The Trapper & Predator Caller, 700 E. State St., Iola, WI 54990.

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