Trapping
 Trapping is an important part of the culture and economy of the residents of southwest Alaska. Trapping was one of the main sources of cash income before prices paid for commercially caught salmon increased during the early 1980's. Furbearers still provide an important source of income for trappers and many furs are used domestically in the production of garments and handicrafts. Additionally, the meat from some species, particularly beaver, is highly valued as food. During late February, trappers come to Dillingham from around the region to seal and sell pelts (hides or skins) at the annual "Beaver Round-up" Festival. Furbuyers purchase thousands of pelts during the week-long rendezvous and celebration.
Commonly trapped furbearers include: beaver, red fox, river otter, wolf, wolverine, and Arctic ground (parka) squirrel. Little trapping effort is directed at the other furbearers occurring on Togiak Refuge, which include: mink, muskrat, Arctic fox, coyote, lynx, marten, short-tailed weasel, least weasel, red squirrel, and hoary marmot. For basic information on these fubearing animals, visit our mammal life history page.
Trapping seasons generally reflect the period of pelt primeness and begin in early November and typically finish at the end of February or March. Most trappers access their trapping areas via snowmachines. Open water or lack of adequate snow may prohibit access and thus reduce trapping effort. Trapping on Togiak Refuge is governed by both Federal Subsistence Management and State of Alaska trapping regulations.
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