Bobcat

Lynx rufus

All species

A high-value cat that responds to visual flash and curiosity more than food scent.

Typical Size

15 – 35 lb

Prime Season

Dec – Feb

Overview

Bobcats are secretive predators with some of the most valuable fur in North America. Where seasons and quotas allow, they're taken on flat and cubby sets using visual attractors and cat lure at travel pinch points.

Identification

15-35 lb muscular cat with spotted tan-brown coat
Short 'bobbed' black-tipped tail
Tufted ears and facial ruff
Round track with no claw marks, four-toed

Habitat

Brushy draws, rocky ridges, timber edges, and swamp margins. They travel ridgelines, benches, and trails through cover.

Field Sign

Round cat tracks in dirt and snow, covered scat at scrapes, and scratch posts. They often travel the same routes repeatedly.

Behavior

Solitary, curious predators drawn to movement and visual cues. Territorial travel makes trail and pinch-point sets productive.

Best Sets

Flat Set with Visual Attractor

When: On travelways and ridge trails

Trap: #3 coilspring foothold with feathers or flagging above the set

View full set instructions →

Cubby Set

When: Near travel edges and rock cover

Trap: Foothold or bodygrip in a cubby with cat lure and bait

View full set instructions →

Bait & Lure

Cat gland lure, bobcat urine, and visual attractors (bird wings, tinsel, flagging). Bobcats key on sight and curiosity as much as smell.

Fur Handling

Skin cased and handle carefully — bobcat fur is premium and often requires state tagging/CITES documentation before sale.

Ready to run a line for bobcat?

Mark your sets and trap line on the map and track every check.

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