Primitive Traps

This article is adapted from an article by Field and Stream that is no longer published.

Snare

Position the snare at head height and tie off the end to a tree, a stake in the ground, or a log that the animal can only drag a short distance as the noose tightens. Make snares from cord, fishing line, or wire if available. It helps to place broken branches or brush on either side of the path to nudge the animal through the path with the snare.

Bird Pole

Birds can be much easier to trap than mammals and are therefore among the first targets for a meal.

The Ojibwa Bird Pole is placed out in the open where a bird with naturally land upon it. To make it, follow these steps:

1. Sharpen both ends of a 6-foot pole and drill a small hole near one end. Drive the other end into the ground until it is secure.
2. Cut a 6-inch-long stick that will loosely fit into the hole. Tie a rock to a thin cord and pass the cord through the hole in the pole, then make a slip noose that drapes over the perch.
3. Tie an overhand knot in the cord in back of the slip noose and place the stick against the hole. Tension should hold it in position. When a bird flies down and perches, it will displace the stick, the rock will fall, and its feet will be caught as the loop quickly slides through the hole.
   

Spring Snare

This trap works by setting a trigger that snatches game into the air as it strains against the noose. It’s good for rabbits and game as large as deer.

Deadfall Trap

Deadfalls use rocks or logs to squash prey and are typically baited, but they also work along trails or outside burrows when a passing animal or bird brushes against the trigger.

Funnel Fish Trap

Make the walls of the funnel trap with piled-up stones or tightly spaced sticks driven solidly into the river or lakebed. Close the entrance to the trap, roil the water, then either spear the fish or net them. A net can be made  made by tying a shirt or other cloth between two stout poles. These work because fish swim along the shore in shallow water to feed.