Trappers, predator callers and animal-damage-control professionals from throughout the Midwest convened in Barnum, Minn., June 14 to 17 at the Fur Takers of America national convention.
Trapping supply dealers from as far away as North Carolina, New Jersey and Utah, as well as many more from Midwestern states, offered deals on traps, tools, lure, bait and fur-handling supplies. Ardell Grawe of Wahpeton, N.D., (pictured at left) offered wood stretchers, lure and lure ingredients to convention shoppers.
In addition to continuous skinning and fur-handling presentations, a full slate of educational demonstrations was held at the center of the Carlton County Fairgrounds in east-central Minnesota. Roy Greenfield (pictured at right), a member of the FTA Governing Board, taught sessions about predator calling, while trapping supply dealer and noted raccoon trapper Red o’Hearn (pictured below) presented an informative look at catching ‘coons.
In addition to staffing a booth, T&PC editor Paul Wait conducted a trapline photography seminar.
Trap-setting, skillet throwing and kids games were highlights of the show for many attendees. A benefit auction and national member and awards banquet was held.
If you missed the FTA rendezvous this year, take heart. The 2008 national convention is slated for June 19 to 22 in Columbia, Mo.
