Annual Trappers Carnival in Apsley

by Steve Metrow

The first Saturday in March is the date of the Kawartha-Haliburton Trappers Association Annual Carnival held at the Apsley Community Centre. The Association members are trappers with trap lines on both private and Crown land in North Kawartha – South Haliburton Areas.

Association President Bill Watt stated, “The Carnival, this being it’s 31st year, serves several functions. It’s an opportunity for trappers to get together to talk over what’s going on in the bush, as well as honing skills and techniques in fur pelt preparation for the market.”

Several suppliers of trapping equipment had booths set up to show and tell trappers “What’s new and what you need!!”

Over 200 trappers and people interested in learning about trapping and the fur industry registered in this year’s event.

Trappers from as far away as Lindsay and Barry’s Bay came to take part in the various events. Pelt preparation demonstrations and contests were the main events, which included the skinning, fleshing and stretching of the pelts of beaver, muskrat, otter, mink, raccoon. Fisher, ermine, red squirrel, and fox.

Sixteen adult and sixteen junior trappers took part in the demonstrations. A senior fur grader from The Fur Harvesters Auction House in North Bay judged their efforts. Prizes were awarded for the best preparation of each species with the top prize, the MNR Trophy awarded for the best bundle of three different pelts.

Most of the fur harvested in Canada is sold through either of two fur auction houses. Buyers from countries around the world  attend these auctions. Fur harvested in our area could end up in a garment made in Greece, China, Italy or other countries.

From the number of participants at the Carnival youth and adult, male and female, it’s easy to see that trapping, as a part of a way of life in the country is alive and well.  

Above photos supplied by King Baker.