Pond Boss Forums INTRO Questions & Observations Snapping turtles

My neighbor saw one heading up towards my pond the other day, I swim and train my dogs in there,, should I run a trot line? Any thoughts? plus I hear the taste good

I wouldn't worry much about your dogs or swimming, they're not after you. For that matter, there are probably a few in your pond already.

I've trapped them, and yes they taste good but cleaning them can be a NIGHTMARE!! Some people claim to have it down, but I have trouble. Darn things still claw at you for an hour with no head or guts! Evil zombie like dead creatures!!

They are a natural part of the environment. I wouldn't worry about them, unless they give you a reason. If they become visible, if the dogs notice them, if they distract from your mission, then try to catch or shoot the little darlings. Softshell snappers taste pretty good. Personally, I have never been hungry enough to get past the stench of a hard shell snapping turtle on the hoof.

how do you trap them?
i get there part of the natural system but,,
my dogs live in that pond(chesies) in the summer, im not saying im gonna go after them full force but id like some technique here,, at least to figure out if I have them

Snapping turtles are easiest caught on live sunfish or cut bait, using a big hook, wire leaders tied to nylon cord, fished under a float.
They don't like to sun, so trying to trap them with a traditional turtle trap won't work. You can catch them in a large wire trap, baited with some type of meat. Run it often, because they will drown. A cylindrical wire trap, made of welded wire, with a cone-shaped opening, large enough for a big turtle to swim through, works fairly well.

Here's one that I caught in my pond. I've got lots of them. I caught it while fishing for bluegill. I'll bet there are at least ten on my property. Can't say I'm real fond of them. This turtle was supposed to be dropped off in a creek on my way home but I forgot and ended up with him in my driveway.

Hey is that Opie of Mayberry RFD? I thought he grew up?

That's a nice one Bruce!
I have to say I am a fan of turtle soup. I have fond memories as a boy of turtle fishing with my grandad & enjoying the feasts he made from our catch!

That's really funny, Cecil.

I'll tell you the strangest thing....I have absolutely no recollection of what ever happened to that turtle. :rolleyes:

Ric,

I'd eat one if I knew how to do it. I don't have a clue. You could have a good meal with the ones at my place. I don't know if it's the salty water, or what, but they don't generally have algae on them, nor do they smell funny like they do from some ponds.

Bruce I found a snapper in my driveway too.

I caught this monster at the pond tonight