Trapping

Information and Resources for Trapping in New Hampshire

fisher walking on fallen logTrapping is an important part of New Hampshire’s furbearer management efforts. Under the guidance of regulated programs, trappers help maintain furbearer populations, provide data through annual reports, and resolve conflicts between people and wildlife. Trappers help keep New Hampshire’s furbearer populations at healthy levels.

 

Trapping License Requirements:

To purchase a NH trapping license, you must have either:

  • A previous New Hampshire trapping license issued in the last 3 years
  • A trapper education card.

All first-time trappers must become certified by successfully completing a trapper education class. An in-person field day is required for all courses. Online trapper education courses without an in-person field day will not be accepted.

Purchase your trapping license in one of two ways:

 

Trapper Education:

Trapper Education teaches participants how to be safe, responsible and ethical while trapping furbearing animals. Courses are offered April through September. If no courses are currently listed, please check back frequently as new courses may be added.

Traditional Trappers Ed

Resident and Non-resident 12 and older only

An 8-hour instructor-led in-person course. The cost for this course is no more than $5.00 per student. Students must attend the entire course and will be required to pass a written exam with a score of 80% or better.

Online Trapper Ed Course

Resident and Non-resident 12 and older only

Study and pass the online "Today's Trapper" course. Cost is $34.50 for the online course, and up to an additional $5.00 per field day per student. Students will be required to attend a field day and pass a written exam that day with a score 80% or better.

Trapping on State Lands

Information and permit availability for trapping on state lands