Foothold

Pocket Set

A shoreline classic for mink, coon, and muskrat — curiosity draws them into the bank hole.

Mink Raccoon Muskrat

Pocket Set diagram — Cutaway diagram of the Pocket Set — components, placement, and depth.

Where to Set

Along stream banks, pond edges, and any shoreline with mink or coon travel. Place the pocket right at the waterline where animals patrol the edge.

How to Build It

1Dig a pocket back into the bank at the waterline, angled slightly upward, 8-12" deep.
2Place bait or lure in the back of the pocket, just above the water.
3Bed a foothold trap under 1-2" of water directly below the pocket mouth.
4Anchor to deep water with a drowning wire so the catch drowns quickly.
5Blend the entrance so it looks like a natural den hole.

Bait & Lure

Fish or fish-oil bait tucked back in the pocket. Mink or coon lure at the entrance boosts pulling power.

Gear & Traps

#1.5-#2 foothold, drowning wire and slide lock, stake, bait, trowel, gloves.

Best Conditions

Stable water levels through fall and winter. Re-check and re-bed after rain raises or muddies the water.

Safety & Legal

Follow trap-check intervals and tagging rules. Use a proper drowning rig for a quick, humane dispatch. Confirm foothold size and shoreline set regulations in your state.

Take this set to the field

Drop trap-set waypoints and map your line so you never miss a check.