A seasoned trapper looking to improve pelt preparation skills, a hunter looking to properly care for a hide or someone with no hunting and trapping experience is invited to attend a pelt preparation demonstration Saturday.

The event will be hosted by the Intermountain Fur Harvesters from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Farragut Shooting Range Center, 33644 N. Shooters Road, Athol.

Participants will learn how to skin, flesh and dry furbearer pelts. There won’t be learning from listening to presentations and watching videos at the event; instead, attendees will watch in-person demonstrations by experienced trappers.

Have a pelt but unsure of how to prepare it? Bring it to get help with proper preparation and care for the purposes of sale or tanning.

Experienced trappers can consider attending to share tips and tricks. It's a way to extend the trapping legacy to teach others and share what's learned through years of trapping.

No formal registration is required, just show up ready to learn. Also follow the Intermountain Fur Harvesters Facebook page for updates, news and events in the future.

Lunch and drinks will be provided, so come on out and get ready to spend the day learning and connecting with others who share similar interests.

Why proper fur care is important

Reasons vary for why folks enjoy regulated trapping. For some, it’s simply a way of life and a reminder of our trapping legacy in Idaho. For others, it may appeal as an opportunity to participate directly in wildlife management, address property damage or reduce losses to livestock. Regardless of the reason, the result can be a collection of fur for clothing or crafts. Many furs are sold at fur sales to buyers who produce clothing and crafts commercially.  

When furs are not properly prepared and cared for, their utility and value decreases. Consider attending to feel more confident in fur preparation skills and increase the quality of the furs prepared.

Regulated trapping in Idaho

Most regulated trapping seasons open in November, so now is the perfect time to learn the intricacies of pelt preparation and care to hit the woods with confidence this fall.

Check the 2022-2023 Upland Game, Furbearer and Turkey Seasons and Rules online at idfg.idaho.gov. Regulated trapping rules start on page 31.

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T.J. Ross is a regional communications manager with the Idaho Department of Fish and Game.