Tips to Avoid Non-target Catch of Otter
Traps may not be set on or within 15 feet of a beaver lodge at any time, or on or within 15 feet of a beaver dam except during an open otter season. This is intended to reduce otter harvest in some areas and to reduce non-target capture of otter during closed otter seasons, with minimal impact to beaver management. In the recent past, long beaver seasons, coupled with liberalized regulations, have placed trappers in increased jeopardy of unintentional otter harvest. The changes were suggested by trappers to address this concern. Continuing communications, improved regulations, and trapper education will help trappers to become better at targeting beaver and improve the ability of DEC to manage both beaver and otter populations.
The following methods should be used to reduce the risk of catching an otter where otter seasons are closed.
- Be alert for otter sign, toilets, and play areas.
- To catch beaver through ice, use baited sets or set the feed pile.
- For open water, use castor mound or set feed trails leading to the bank.
- In deep channel sets, use a floating dive pole. Place top of trap at least 18" below dive pole. Most otter will dive between the pole and trap, while beaver normally go to the bottom.
- Catch most of the beaver in an areas quickly and move out before an otter passes through.
- Place trigger off to one side when using body gripping trap. If you have the option, use 330s rather than 220s.
- When trapping raccoon and mink along water being used by otter, set small footholds and carry release equipment.
