Wind Direction:
When trapping for canines, the prevailing wind direction needs to be taken in account when choosing a trap set location. It’s a good idea to make a set upwind of the expected travel way of the canine, and also a set downwind. The downwind set is for when the wind direction changes. Also when an animal is caught in one set, another animal will usually circle the caught animal if it is encountered. This second set stands a good chance of picking up this second animal. Many doubles have been caught this way.  (See figure below)

Applying Lure:

When applying lure to a set don’t let it make contact with the earth. The dirt has a tendency to absorb the odor of the lure making the lure very weak. Use a lure holder such as cotton, corncob, piece of wood, sheep’s wool, hollow section of cane, etc. to place the lure on.

Pocket Set Trap Placement
When setting a trap at a pocket set in moving water, place the trap on the downstream side at the opening of the pocket. Muskrats and mink will approach a pocket set in moving water from the downstream side. They can more easily maneuver when swimming into the current.