Knowing how to make a simple snare can be very helpful in an emergency situation. Imagine being stranded in the woods and needing to find food quickly. If you have some snare wire in your backpack or emergency kit, you can easily catch some dinner. Follow these instructions to learn how to create a snare and catch some food!
Location
The first thing you need to determine is where the prey is located. Setting a trap where no animal will be is futile. Look for signs of animals such as tracks, droppings, plants that have been eaten, or flattened vegetation. The best areas are usually around feeding areas or watering holes.
Noose and Loop
The noose and loop are the fundamental components of a snare trap. Ideally, the animal will walk through the loop and set off the trap. Here’s how to create a simple snare:
 |
Wrap the end of the wire a few times around a stick. |
 |
Twist the ends of the wire together and over each other a few times. |
 |
Remove the stick and you should have a nice loop. |
 |
Thread the other end of the wire through the loop. You can tighten the snare by pulling on one end. |
Engine
Set up your snare near a tree or shrub. A young tree is a good option because it’s bendable and snaps back into place quickly. Bend the sapling over and tie it down to act as tension for the snare. If you’re in an area without trees, use dead weights like rocks.
Trigger
The trigger has two main parts: the hook and the leading line. The leading line connects the trigger to the engine (usually a wire). The trigger is connected to the noose and should tighten quickly when pulled by the engine. Here are a few trigger options:
 |
Carved Trigger: This trigger is effective but requires carving tools. |
 |
Y Trigger: Useful if you don't have carving tools. Find two sticks and roughen the edges. |
 |
Peg Style Trigger: Stick a peg into a nearby log or stump and apply bait to the peg. |
Thanks to Willow Haven Outdoor for many of these ideas.
Your Ideas
Have you ever used a snare? What tips can you share? Comment below to share your knowledge.
