Bird Hunting & Cable Devices

[Rick Tischaefer]

Upland Bird Hunting and Cable Device Users​

My name is Rick Tischaefer and I am the President of the North Dakota Fur Hunters and Trappers Association. I also serve as a coordinator for the North Dakota Cooperative Fur Harvester Education Program, a joint outdoor education program with our association and the North Dakota Game and Fish Department.

Many of you may remember this post from previous years. I don't think it will hurt anyone too much if I post it again – not only as a reminder but to share the information with your friends or fellow hunters. For the most part, we are experiencing above normal temperatures and conditions in North Dakota, allowing for extended upland bird hunting opportunities (where birds may exist). Many trappers began building their trap lines through November, and with the close of the deer gun season, will begin targeting coyotes with cable devices (e.g. snares).

WPA's and WMA's do not allow the use of cable devices until after the close of the upland bird season. The ability to use cable devices on private land began on Monday, November 25, 2024. Using cable devices on private land requires written permission from the landowner or operator, including PLOTS. Make the time to visit with the landowner or operator so you know what other activities may now be occurring on those lands.

The intent of this information is to raise the level of awareness and reduce the potential for an unnecessary problem. No trapper that I know of makes a set to catch someone's dog, but it can happen if circumstances permit. Knowledge of each other’s activities; communicating with landowners or operators; paying attention to your four-legged hunting partner; and being prepared are key to having a safe, productive, and enjoyable day afield.

We have information brochures for safely releasing dogs; can provide needed training to dog owners; and are available to assist wherever needed – all anyone has to do is ask. This is the link to the three brochures: “www.gf.nd.gov/hunting/trapping-and-dogs”.

If you would like to know more about using cable devices in North Dakota, this is the link to our handbook: “www.gf.nd.gov/sites/default/files/publications/using-cable-devices-in-nd.pdf”.

Galvanized aircraft cable is commonly used in the construction of cable devices for coyotes. Some wire cutters or a Leatherman tool may eventually cut this cable, but it will be very difficult and time consuming. Cable cutters are used to easily cut through this type of cable. They are inexpensive and small enough to carry in a hunting vest or jacket pocket. Two links to this product are:

“www.minntrapprod.com/Cable-Cutter-and-Sheath-Save-200/productinfo/C7-COMBO”
“www.snareshop.com/prodinfo.asp?number=RC8”

The lock component of the cable device may also be manipulated to make the loop larger, allowing the loop to be removed from the dog. If you have any trouble with acquiring the publications or a pair of cable cutters; need hard copies of any printed material; have related questions; or would like to set up a future training opportunity, send a PM or contact me via e-mail through our website at “www.ndfhta.com”. Please share this information with those who you think may benefit by it and have many safe and enjoyable days experiencing all that North Dakota has to offer.

Respectfully,

Rick Tischaefer
President, North Dakota Fur Hunters and Trappers Association