A strategic set placed at the exact point where a beaver crosses a dam or slides down a muddy bank.
Beaver
Cutaway diagram of the Dam / Slide Set — components, placement, and depth.
Where to Set
Inspect beaver dams for smooth, wet depressions where beavers frequently cross. On river banks, look for slick, muddy slides leading directly into deep water. Set at the bottom of these slides where the animal first enters the water.
How to Build It
1Identify the most heavily used slide or dam crossover point by looking for fresh mud and wet trails.
2If using a foothold, bed it in 3 to 4 inches of water at the base of the slide where the beaver's feet will touch down.
3Connect the foothold to a heavy drowning cable system leading to deep water.
4If using a body-grip trap, center it in the underwater approach channel to the slide.
5Block off secondary trails or wide edges with dead sticks to guide the beaver directly over the trap pan or through the trigger.
Bait & Lure
None required; relies entirely on natural travel patterns and terrain pinch points.
Gear & Traps
330 Body-grip trap (if legal/submerged) or large foothold trap (#3-#5) with a drowning rig.
Best Conditions
Effective year-round in open water, especially during fall when beavers are actively repairing dams and gathering winter food.
Safety & Legal
Never breach a beaver dam illegally, and ensure all traps are placed in deep water with a drowning rig for humane dispatch. Check local regulations regarding mandatory 24-hour trap checks and distance requirements from lodges. Verify your ID tag is legible to comply with wildlife enforcement rules.
Take this set to the field
Drop trap-set waypoints and map your line so you never miss a check.
