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ESCANABA -- Upper Peninsula trappers Bob Steinmetz and Ryan Koivu will be taking the stage teaching attendees of the 60th Annual Trappers Convention/ Outdoor Expo how to capture beaver. Also taking the stage will be nationally known trappers Red O' Hearn, Ed Schneider, Mark June, Jeff Dunlap, Sarah Gomez, Al Dubord and Jeff Hagerty.
Local trappers Steinmetz and Koivu have years and years of experience. Their demo will concentrate on fall, winter and spring beaver trapping. It is scheduled for 8:30 a.m. Saturday, July 16. Steinmetz has been trapping for 50 years and Koivu has 46 years under his belt. Attendees get the usual tips, techniques, methods, and lure placement and demonstrations use of different tools for different situations and seasons. The proper, legal, safe and humane use of footholds, body grips and under-ice beaver snares will be explained. They will also speak on the proper fur handling of the catch to ensure top dollar sales with the fur dealer.
This year's event is scheduled for July 15-16 at the U.P. State Fairgrounds in Escanaba. Times are 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Friday and 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Saturday. There is an entry fee. Camping on the grounds is available. Hundreds of vendors, tailgaters, crafters, antique dealers will fill the grounds. Food vendors will be offering local favorites, and the kids will be entertained by games, contests and the ever popular free fishing in the Pocket Park. Raffles will be running constantly. Contact Roy Dahlgren at (906) 399-1960 or trapperroy@outlook.com to reserve fish fry tickets or if you have any questions about the event.
"Steinmetz and Koivu are superb beaver trappers," said Rich Bartoletti, a member of U.P. Trappers. "One can sure learn a lot by attending their demo. They engage the audience and encourage dialog and questions."
"This is a great annual event. I learn many new things each year and find this a good time to stock up on equipment and supplies. Most vendors offer convention special prices and the best part ...no shipping fees. Hope to see you there," said Chuck Stepniak, a member of U.P. Trappers.
This event is put on strictly with volunteers. If anyone would like to help out in any way contact Roy Dahlgren at (906) 399-1960 or trapperroy@outlook.com.
More information on the convention may be gained by logging on to www.uptrappers.com and clicking on "Convention" (Top Menu) or the "Convention Information button"