Survival 101: Basic Trapping & Hunting for Survival

 Survival 101: Basic Trapping & Hunting for Survival

Introduction

In a survival situation, foraging alone may not provide enough calories. Learning basic trapping and hunting techniques can help secure protein and sustain energy levels. This guide covers simple, effective methods to trap small game, catch fish, and use primitive hunting tools.

Step 1: Understanding Traps & Hunting Ethics

✅ Use the Right Trap for the Right Animal – Different traps work for different species.

✅ Check Traps Regularly – Prevent suffering and ensure fresh meat.

✅ Camouflage & Scent Control – Animals are wary; handle materials with gloves if possible.

✅ Hunting Laws & Ethics – If not in an emergency, follow local regulations.

💡 Tip: Focus on small game (rabbits, squirrels, birds, fish) rather than large animals, which require more effort and tools.

Step 2: Simple Survival Traps

1. Snare Trap (For Rabbits & Small Game)

A lightweight, easy-to-make trap using wire or strong cordage.

🛠 How to Make It:

🔹 Use thin wire, fishing line, or paracord (around 18 inches long).

🔹 Form a loop (noose) about 3 inches wide and secure it to a sturdy branch or stick.

🔹 Place the snare on a well-traveled animal trail about 3 inches off the ground.

🔹 Check frequently to prevent escape.

✅ Best for: Rabbits, squirrels, and small animals following trails.

2. Deadfall Trap (For Rodents & Small Mammals)

Uses a heavy rock or log to crush an animal when triggered.

🛠 How to Make It:

🔹 Find a flat, heavy rock or log.

🔹 Use three sticks to create a simple trigger mechanism (similar to a "figure-four" or "Paiute" deadfall).

🔹 Bait the trap with nuts, berries, or food scraps.

🔹 When the animal moves the bait, the structure collapses.

✅ Best for: Rats, mice, and small scavengers.

3. Fish Trap (For Rivers & Streams)

A funnel-shaped trap that allows fish to swim in but prevents escape.

🛠 How to Make It:

🔹 Construct a cone-shaped barrier using sticks and rocks in shallow water.

🔹 Leave a small entrance (funnel opening) where fish can enter.

🔹 Once inside, they struggle to escape.

🔹 Collect fish with a net or hands.

✅ Best for: Small fish in slow-moving rivers or streams.

💡 Tip: Use bait (worms, insects, or leftover food) to attract more fish.

Step 3: Primitive Hunting Tools

1. Spear Hunting (For Fish & Small Game)

🪵 How to Make It:

🔹 Find a sturdy, straight branch (about 5–6 feet long).

🔹 Sharpen the tip with a knife or fire-harden it.

🔹 Split the tip into four prongs and secure with twine for better accuracy.

✅ Best for: Spearing fish in shallow water or small animals.

2. Throwing Stick (For Birds & Small Mammals)

A simple, silent weapon to stun prey.

🪵 How to Use It:

🔹 Find a heavy, curved stick (like a boomerang).

🔹 Aim for the head or legs of small animals to disable them.

🔹 Works best for birds, rabbits, or ground squirrels.

✅ Best for: Hunting in open fields or near water sources.

Step 4: Processing & Cooking Your Catch

🐰 Small Game: Skin and gut animals immediately. Roast meat over a fire or smoke for preservation.

🐟 Fish: Scale, gut, and cook thoroughly to kill parasites.

🔥 Cooking Methods:

Spit-roasting over an open flame.

Stone boiling (if no pot, heat rocks and drop them in water with food).

Smoking for preservation.

💡 Tip: Save bones and skins for tools, clothing, or additional food sources (bone broth)

Real-Life Applications

🏕️ Camping and need food? Set a simple snare or fish trap.

🌲 Lost in the wilderness? Use a spear for fish or a throwing stick for birds.

🔥 No modern tools? Make a fire-hardened spear and a deadfall trap.

Call to Action

Could you catch your own food if needed? Try building a small snare or fish trap (without harming animals) and share your experience! 🌿🐟