This season, I’ve decided to try using newspaper tubes for cubby sets on my marten trapline.  The tubes make for a great cubby, with the open end being the perfect size for a 120 conibear trap.  I got a great deal on 20 tubes and plan to set them up on my line before the season starts, but not without a little bit of modification.

I’ve drilled a series of holes through the sides and back of the tubes to allow for more air to flow through and carry the scent of the bait further from the set, potentially drawing animals in from a longer distance.

After that, I cut slots on each side of the tubes’ openings to fit the springs of a 120 conibear.

The 120 fits just right, and with the bait placed in the back of the tube, mounted on an elevated log or tree, it should make for a good set!

Lots of marten trappers in Maine and other states use these boxes at their sets.  They are light, stackable, and will last a lot longer than wood boxes.  You can buy them new from places like Continental Products and Rak Systems, or pick used ones up at your local newspaper distributor.

Alaska trapper and biologist Steve Peterson uses them on his line and wrote and extensive article on the subject.

You can find more ideas for marten sets by searching the topic at trapperman.com.