Hello to all,

I'm new to the forum. As a matter of fact this is my first post. I know very little about trapping. I've read some books, watched video on you tube, ordered some dvd's, etc. Also have several dozen snares and a few conibears on the way. I'd like to find someone within a couple hour drive of Anchorage that would be willing to help a guy learn the trade. I have little to offer except the equipment I've got ordered and a strong back (and legs). I know for the most part the season is ending but I am very serious. If you'd be willing to teach, and could use the help, here I am.....

1911 in AK

1911, I myself just started trapping and have only been on this site for a week or so. I never in a million years would have thought I could learn this much from a forum. These guys and gals know about trapping!! They are full of knowledge and willing to share it! Although trapping is coming to a close I'll bet someone will be willing to take you along. Good luck and I look forward to hearing about your success.

Welcome 1911. Hope someone from the Anc. area complies with your request. Might look into the wolf school in Feb. if there are any spots open. Also look into the S.C. trappers assoc.

Piperniner, Do you have any info about this wolf school or how I can research it myself? I have never heard of it before but I am one of the FNG's. Thanks for any info! Also, did you go and was it helpfull?

2009 ATA Wolf Trapping School
8:00 AM Saturday February 7 to 4 PM Sunday February 8, 2009
Location: Trail Lake Lodge, Moose Pass [on the way to Seward AK ]


Instructors: Mark Schlenker and Laine Lahndt


Cost: $130 for ATA members
$160 for non-ATA members [includes membership]
Includes 4 meals - lunch and dinner on saturday, breakfast and lunch on sunday


_To be paid in advance with registration. _

To Make Reservations: Contact Keith Bayha, 907-746-6662, or nohorn@gci.net to get your name on the list early and for more information

Mail check to: SCCATA, 29792 West Glenn Hwy , Sutton , AK 99674

DEADLINE for making reservations is January 23 [no exceptionsI]. It is best if you reserve early as we may max out before the deadline.


Lodging options range from $35 /person for two persons to a room to FREE if you are willing to sleep in your bag on the floor of the meeting room. Detailed information to be provided when making reservations.



Any Questions ? Call Robert Gibson (KPTA) at 907-598-2000



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Thanks for the info. I'll be checking on this first thing in the morning.

Bamm Bamm, thanks and I'll keep you posted...

It was started by the Alaska Trappers Association in Fairbanks where the class was conducted each year. I attended twice and it was excellent ( take good notes ). They now rotate the class each year with South Central Trappers Association in Anc. This year it's being held in Moose Pass ( I think ) and they have a well known Kenai wolf trapper and others as instructors. ATA also has a general trapping school each year and SCTA also has instruction sessions. So get in contact with SCTA and also the ATA website. Martenpine will probably chime in with details for the wolf school - if not might want to pm him.

Thanks, as you all have noticed this past week, I can use the training I can get.

Thanks Piperniner, for bringing up the general (Basic) school.

In my opinion (albeit somewhat subjective...) attending that school is the single best thing that a new trapper can do to get started trapping in Alaska. Even if you live elsewhere in the state, it is well worth it to travel to Fairbanks for the school.

I sure wish that class had been in existence when I came into the country! It would have saved me years of trial and error and a ton of money!

It is the best deal in trapping offered in Alaska.

Pete

Sorry, but I think your to late for the wolf school. but you might want to try.

I took the basic class in Fairbanks this year and it was great. It was the best thing that I could have done. i bet it took years off of the learning curve. The guys there where great and it was a lot of fun. If anyone takes the class I would really stay the night out there. half of the fun was hanging out and talking with some one the greats. Just stay away from spotter he is a bad influence.

Speaking of the wolf school who is signed up?

Ditto what Pete and Woodelf said ( sorry Spotter ) . Between the two classes and the F+G fur handling tape, your set. Also, always attend any seminars or classes offered. You always learn something new.

Sounds like we are to late? I don't get home from work until Feb 24. Is that the only class?

There will be a "general" school next October in Fairbanks.

The next wolf school will Jan or Feb '10, also in Fairbanks.

They are a ton of work to put on and they seldom make ATA any money!

Pete

Great discussion on the schools available..... But my offer at the top of the thread is still out there.....

1911 in AK

Pete and particular dates for the school in October in Fairbanks?

Granted I may not live in Alaska, However I've taken the class and its a good investment for when we do get to trap and snare wolves in Montana. And As much as it may pain me to say Pete is a darn good instructor. LOL
Best Wishes, amtrapper

The General School is USUALLY the third weekend in October.

Pete

Woodelf, I believe it was you that put me "under the influence" that evening. Honestly both schools are a great learning tool and you can develop wonderful lifelong friendships in the process.