I’m a little late in reporting, but it’s about time for another fur market update.
The final wild fur sales at the major auction houses took place in May. Both NAFA and FHA reported excellent results, and it looks like the fur market is right on track for the upcoming trapping season. NAFA sold 100% of most items, many at stellar prices, and FHA reported that this was its most successful May auction in recorded history! Great news, since prices are not expected to fall anytime soon.
Raccoon maintained the high levels reached during earlier auctions, averaging over $25 in many areas. This is a huge improvement from prior years, with strong demand and a small harvest due to winter conditions bringing prices up.
Coyote did not sell 100%, but good prices ($20-30) were paid for top quality items. Coyote prices may drop a little this coming season since some inventory has been carried over.
Beaver continued to sell well, and at prices similar to years past. This item seems to be creeping up slowly in price recently, but I wouldn’t expect to see huge price increases for beaver.
Bobcat and Lynx continue to bring exceptional prices and seem to be breaking records at every auction. A number of western bobcats sold at over $1,000 each this spring, and top quality items averaged over $500. Lynx averaged over $200.
Marten and fisher also commanded sky-high prices, with marten averaging around $100 overall, and fisher going at $65-75.
Grey fox moved a bit slower than expected, but NAFA remains optimistic about this item.
Muskrat seems to have finally stabilized, and sold well at around $3-4, with expectations of possible increases. Mink prices did not change much from previous auctions.
Otter and red fox continue to sell at lower prices than in past years. Other items sold well, at or near the 100% level.
Overall, fur prices continue to look good for trappers in 2008.
What does it take for a western rocky mountain bobcat to make it worth a thousand dollars?
What does it take for Bobcat to bring a thousand dollars?
Usually the buyers are looking for a large male with a well spotted belly. The $1,000 pelts are very exceptional furs that have been well prepared. Like I said in an earlier reply, I’m not sure many cats will reach $1,000 this year, but who knows?