Introduction
Trapping is a vital skill for survival food procurement, offering a reliable method to secure meat without relying solely on hunting or fishing. This article covers essential trapping techniques, including snare construction, trap setting, and the use of body gripping traps. It also discusses fishing methods and the importance of preserving game meat. By mastering these skills, you can ensure a steady food supply in emergency situations.
Snare Construction
Snares are effective for trapping small game like rabbits and squirrels. To make a simple snare, use wire or cable. Bend a sapling and attach a noose to a forked stick, securing it with a leader line. When triggered, the sapling snaps the animal into the air. Alternatively, use a T-deadfall trap by notching two sticks to interlock, placing a bait stick between them, and propping a heavy object above. When the animal disturbs the bait, the trap releases the weight to crush it. For larger game, consider using stainless steel snares, which are scent-removable, rust-proof, and long-lasting.
Trap Setting
Body gripping traps, such as Conibear traps (#110, #120, #220), are highly effective for small to medium game. These traps ensure instant dispatch and humane treatment. Set traps in areas where game is known to travel, such as near water sources or in dense vegetation. Always check traps frequently to ensure humane treatment and prevent suffering. Use a game bag to carry animals and store processed meat in airtight containers to prevent contamination.
Hunting with Firearms
Hunting with firearms is another method for securing food. Rifles, shotguns, and handguns are effective for different game types. Ensure proper gear, such as gloves and eye protection, and follow range rules and firearm maintenance guidelines. Shot placement is crucial for humane kills and minimizing meat damage. State laws govern trap types, hunting seasons, and bag limits, so always check local regulations.
Preserving Game Meat
Processing the kill involves field dressing, butchering small game, and preservation. Remove internal organs promptly to prevent spoilage. Use sharp tools and clean surfaces for butchering. Preservation methods include salt curing, smoking, or freezing for long-term storage. Store processed meat in airtight containers to prevent contamination. Follow ethical guidelines and avoid overharvesting to ensure sustainability.
Fishing Techniques
Fishing is another essential skill for survival food procurement. Use fishing line, hooks, and sinkers to catch fish. Modern air rifles (1650 fps velocity) provide silent small/medium game harvesting capabilities comparable to .22 rimfire firearms. Compound bows and crossbows offer effective hunting options, requiring practice for accuracy. Traditional recurve bows offer simplicity with fewer parts and lower maintenance. Fishing with line, hooks, and sinkers is essential, along with improvised fish traps or nets. Foraging Basics In survival situations, prioritize small animals and insects as primary food sources. Most insects are edible, but avoid stinging/biting species, hairy or brightly colored insects, and disease carriers. Cook hard-shelled insects to eliminate parasites. Grubs, ants, and beetles are viable options. Mix insects with vegetation or grind them into paste for nutrition. Grow nutrient-rich, low-maintenance plants like Malabar Spinach, Kang Kong, Garlic Chives, Sweet Potato, and Taro for long-term food security. Stockpile nonperishable foods gradually and include 50ft of snare wire in emergency kits. Use commercial traps like Conibear #110 for efficiency.
Summary
Mastering trapping techniques, hunting with firearms, preserving game meat, fishing, and foraging is crucial for survival food procurement. These skills ensure a steady food supply in emergency situations. Practice regularly and adhere to local regulations to ensure ethical and sustainable practices.