Trapping Conservation and Self-Reliance News

Sarah Gomez To Give Demo On Trapping Muskrat, Raccoon
Jul 13, 2022 08:38 ET

[Reprinted from original]

Sarah Gomez, along with eight other trapping experts, will be giving a demo on trapping muskrat and raccoon at the 60th Annual Trappers Convention/Outdoor Expo at the U.P. State Fairgrounds in Escanaba on July 15 and 16. Hours are 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Friday and 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Saturday. (All times EDT). Admission is $10, with kids 12 and under free.

Joining Gomez in the demo lineup are: Mark June, Jeff Hagerty, Ed Schneider, Red O’Hearn, Jeff Dunlap, Bob Steinmetz, Ryan Koivu, and Al Dubord. These experts will discuss capturing and caring for the fur of most furbearing species.

“I really am pleased to know that all of the presenters not only teach on how to catch the animal, but stress the importance of safety, legal methods, sportsmanship in the field, and striving to make a humane catch,” said Bob Whitens, longtime member of U.P. Trappers District 3.

Jeremy Lundin, treasurer of U.P. Trappers District 3, echoed Whitens’ comment, adding, “The methods, advice, and secrets of trapping do not remain secret at these demos! The presenters willingly share information they have gained through lots of experience. And I agree with Whitens that all trappers should strive to make legal sets, humane captures, and practice safety and sportsmanship in the woods.”

Sarah Gomez will be taking the stage at 1 p.m. on Saturday. (For a complete list of presenters, times, days, topics, and other event info, go to Uptrappers.com and click on “Convention”).

Gomez grew up in Iowa, became interested in trapping at the age of 5, and soon headed to the sporting goods store for her first dozen “DP’s” (Dog Proof coon traps).

Local trappers readily offered her tips and advice, and she was on her way. In her first season she captured nearly 200 raccoons! She still averages about 200 coons per year. Now as an accomplished trapper, she wants to help others (as many helped her) and is doing so by giving demos at 14 to 15 trapper’s conventions each year. After becoming an expert coon trapper, she ventured on to other species.

She now puts up incredible numbers of coyotes, bobcats, fox, beaver, otter, muskrats and weasels.