Becoming a Trapper

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We receive many enquiries concerning acquiring a trapline or how to become a trapper in Alberta. Here is some helpful information.

There are two kinds of trapping licenses in Alberta: registered licenses and resident licenses.

A Registered trapper has the right to trap a portion of Alberta and with that privilege the trapper may have a cabin to help with trapping activities. This is most commonly called a “trap line”. A trapper does not own the land but has the right to trap the fur on that portion subject to a five year permit with annual renewals. The trapper cannot sell the trap line but can only sell the assets on the property.

Sometimes a trap line will become vacant and anyone who qualifies may let his name stand at the Fish and Wildlife office that looks after the area where the line is situated and – subject to the discretion of the officer – may acquire the right to trap in that area. The most common method of finding a trap line is to watch advertisements in the quarterly Alberta Trapper magazine. To get the magazine simply contact us to become a member of the association ($35 annually). Another method is to join trappers local and get to know the trappers as word of mouth often will lead to a trap line.

A resident license allows the trapper to trap on private property with the owner’s permission. This is similar to going hunting and simply requires the consent of the landowner. Many trappers choose this method of trapping and – subject to seasons – resident trappers can harvest most fur bearers in the Province.

Both registered and resident trappers are subject to the rules, regulations, and seasons. A guide to this is found in the Alberta Trapping Regulations which are published yearly.

There are two methods of getting a license. The first is to challenge the examination. In order to do this, one must (or should) pick up a copy of the current Alberta Trappers Manual which is available from the Association for approximately $40 (prices change). Once he or she has read the manual and feels comfortable with the information, then contact your local Fish and Wildlife office to arrange to take the test. The test is a multiple choice examination. When you pass the test you are eligible to then get your resident or registered trapping license and begin trapping.

The second method is to take a standard trapping course. These courses are offered throughout the Province or at the Trappers College at various times of the year. For information on course locations, please check out the "Education” section on this site.