Trapping isn’t all about catching critters in the field. It’s also about skinning, stretching, and fleshing the hides of those animals to prepare them for the fur market. A New York newspaper recently published a great story about a man that skins and prepares pelts for a living.
It’s a busy time for this guy during trapping season, since many trappers no longer have the time or resources to devote to preparing all of their furs.
Wilson, 38, skins and fleshes the carcasses of trapped animals, getting the furs ready for buyers from Canada who in turn sell them to European and Asian markets.
“I pretty much do them all: coyote, muskrat, beaver, basically every animal in this area. I do several thousand every year,” he said, adding he’s been at it for more than 12 years.
I would challenge any beginning trapper to devote some time to learning the art of skinning, stretching and fleshing. I’d also encourage one to participate in selling their fur at a local auction. Catching an animal in the field and processing its pelt for market allows the trapper to capture the entire experience first hand. In my opinion, processing your own pelts makes trapping a more meaningful experience.
I would like to read the whole article on Wilson 38 who prepares pelts for trappers. The article says that he does it for a living, and I would like to contact him to inquire his services.
Regards, Kelly
Interesting article on preparing pelts. My dad used to trap as a hobby, earning some needed cash. I have 8 of his wire pelt stretchers. They are about 20″ high and 8″ wide. Looking for someone who could offer me something for them…no use to me. Concord, NH area.