Trapping has a long history in North Carolina. From predator control to harvesting furs, it is one of the most hands-on and rewarding ways to spend time in the outdoors. If you are new to it, trapping might feel overwhelming at first. The good news is that getting started does not require a garage full of gear — you just need the right tools, a little know-how, and the willingness to learn from the land.
At Godwin’s Outdoor Inc., we work with new trappers all the time. Whether you’re interested in controlling coyotes on your property or picking up a new outdoor hobby during the winter months, we can help you gear up the right way.
Here is everything you need to get started with trapping in North Carolina — what gear you actually need, how to pick the right traps, and a few beginner-friendly tips to get you going.
Know the Rules First
Before buying any trapping gear, you need to be familiar with North Carolina’s trapping regulations. The North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission requires all trappers to have a valid license. There are specific season dates, approved trap types, and location restrictions that vary by county and species.
We always recommend starting with the current year’s regulations, which are available online or in print at most licensing agents. If you are not sure, stop by the store and we will point you in the right direction.
Once you have your license and are familiar with the basics, it is time to gather your gear.
Must-Have Trapping Gear for Beginners
You do not need to spend a fortune to start trapping. What you do need is equipment that works reliably and safely. Here are the essentials we recommend for every beginner.
1. The Right Trap for the Right Animal
There is no one-size-fits-all trap. You need to match your gear to the species you’re targeting. Here is a quick overview of common options:
- Coil Spring Foot Traps: Great for foxes, coyotes, and bobcats. These traps close quickly and are reliable for predators.
- Long Spring Traps: Often used for raccoons and mink. Easier to set and built for stability in wet areas.
- Dog Proof Traps: Designed specifically for raccoons, these are tube-style traps that reduce the chance of catching non-target animals like pets.
- Conibear Traps: Commonly used for muskrats, beaver, and other water animals. They provide quick dispatch and are effective in aquatic sets.
- Cage Traps: Ideal for beginners who want to live-trap nuisance animals like raccoons or opossums in residential or farm settings.
If you are not sure which trap is best for your property or species, we can walk you through your options in store and show you how to use them properly.
2. Lures and Bait
Traps without lure or bait are just metal sitting in the woods. The scent is what draws animals in. There are three main types of lures:
- Food Lures: Mimic natural smells of meat or sweet attractants like fish oil or molasses.
- Gland Lures: Made from natural animal scent glands, used to trigger territorial instincts in predators like foxes or coyotes.
- Curiosity Lures: Designed to pique interest with a mix of musks, oils, or unknown smells.
Many beginners start with simple baits like sardines, marshmallows, or cat food, especially for raccoons. As you gain experience, you can start mixing in stronger commercial lures depending on your target species and season.
3. Trap Dye and Wax
New steel traps are often shiny and carry oil or human scent. Before setting them, you will want to degrease, dye, and wax them to reduce shine, scent, and rust.
- Dye: Comes in powder or liquid form. Helps darken the trap and protect it from the elements.
- Wax: Applied after dyeing. Creates a smoother finish and faster trigger. Also prevents freezing in cold, wet weather.
We carry both dye and wax at Godwin’s and are happy to explain how to do it safely at home.
4. Trap Pan Covers
These small mesh or waxed paper inserts help prevent dirt or debris from clogging the trap pan, allowing for better sensitivity and more consistent firing. In areas with sandy or clay-heavy soil, they are a game-changer.
5. Stakes and Anchors
Once you set a trap, it has to stay in place — even if a big coyote steps in it. Beginners often overlook how important staking is, but it can make or break your success.
- Rebar Stakes: Easy to drive into the ground, reusable, and ideal for drier soils.
- Cable Anchors: Great for areas with harder terrain or when you need a more discreet setup.
We also carry earth anchor drivers and hand tools to help make setup smoother and faster.
6. Gloves and Scent Control
Animals have an incredible sense of smell. Human scent on your traps or gear can tip them off before they even get close. Use dedicated trapping gloves — one pair for setting traps and another for baiting.
- Avoid handling bait and traps with bare hands.
- Store lures, traps, and tools separately when not in use.
- Wash clothing in unscented detergent if possible.
7. Trap Tag or Identification
North Carolina law requires each trap to be tagged with the trapper’s name and address or a unique identification number. We offer stampable aluminum trap tags in store, which are easy to attach and legal for use across the state.
8. A Good Trapping Bag or Bucket
Organization helps you move faster in the field. A dedicated trapping bucket or bag keeps all your tools, bait, lures, and gloves in one place. Look for options with compartments, waterproof liners, and space for a trowel or hammer.
Beginner Tips for Success
Now that you have the gear, here are a few tips that will make your first season go more smoothly.
- Start Small: Focus on one or two species at a time. Raccoons and opossums are great starters.
- Scout First: Look for tracks, scat, and travel corridors before you set your first trap.
- Check Every Day: North Carolina law requires daily trap checks. It is also the right thing to do for humane and responsible trapping.
- Take Notes: Keep a small notebook or use your phone to track where you set traps, what bait you used, and what worked.
- Talk to Other Trappers: Join local forums, attend events, or visit your local wildlife club. Most experienced trappers are more than happy to share tips.
Why Buy Trapping Gear from Godwin’s Outdoor Inc.?
We are not just another outdoor store with a few traps on the shelf. At Godwin’s, we carry the trapping gear you actually need to succeed in the Southeast — gear that has been field-tested and trusted by local trappers for years.
We are always happy to walk beginners through the tools, show you how sets work, and make sure you leave with the right setup for your land and target species. If we do not believe in it, we do not stock it.
You can also count on our team to stay updated with North Carolina trapping regulations and help you avoid mistakes that cost time or lead to empty sets.
Final Thoughts
Starting out as a trapper in North Carolina can be incredibly rewarding. Whether you are managing predators on your property or getting into fur harvesting, it is a skill that connects you with the land and teaches patience, discipline, and observation.
With the right beginner trapping gear, good advice, and a few successful sets under your belt, you will be hooked in no time. And if you ever get stuck or want to expand into more advanced setups, we will be right here to help.