Wolf trapper certification classes are scheduled

Idaho rules require a Wolf Trapper Certification class be completed and passed before a person can purchase wolf trapping tags. The course includes 6.5 hours of instruction, including both classroom and field experience followed by a written exam. Courses are offered periodically throughout the year, but few are taught during trapping seasons as the instructors are trappers who are out in the field running their own trap lines.

Two separate and complete wolf trapping certification classes have been scheduled in Coeur d’Alene. The dates are Friday, Oct. 7 and Saturday, Oct. 8. The classes will be held at the IDFG Panhandle Region office in Coeur d’Alene. Advance registration is required.

Individuals interested in completing the class can register online. The course costs $8 per student. Online registration by credit card requires an added convenience fee of $1.75. The fee is due at the time of registration. Registrants must be at least 9 years of age to take the course.

IDFG also offers a general furbearer trapping class that is different from the Wolf Trapper Certification class. The general furbearer trapping class does not qualify people for the purchase of wolf trapping tags. When registering, please be certain to sign up for the correct trapping class you want to take.

The Wolf Trapper Certification course is instructor-led. Instructors are experienced trappers who are trained and certified to provide students with both classroom study and interactive, hands-on training.

Course content covers a wide variety of topics related to wolf biology, wolf behavior and management. There are specific rules regarding wolf trapping that are covered in the class.

In- structors and IDFG staff leading the class have expertise in furbearer management, trapping laws and ethics, responsible trapping, proper equipment and trapping techniques. Proper care of a hide for maximum value, and harvest reporting requirements are covered as well.

On-site demonstrations in the field include making trap sets free of human scent, rigging snares, placing diverters to avoid non-target catches, and trap site selection.

Students successfully completing the wolf trapping course receive an Idaho Wolf Trapper Certification Card that enables them to purchase wolf trapping tags. Certified wolf trappers may purchase up to five gray wolf trapping tags per trapping season. Tags must be validated and securely attached immediately upon taking a wolf.

Anyone with questions about the Wolf Trapper Certification course is encouraged to contact the IDFG Panhandle office at (208)769-1414; or, consult the IDFG webpage by going to Education/Hunter Education and view the trapper education question and answer section.

Phil Cooper is a wildlife conservation educator working with the Idaho Department of Fish and Game in the Panhandle Region.