Connecticut Department of Energy & Environmental Protection

Basic and Land Trapping Course

The Basic and Coyote Land Trapping Course consists of a full day of instruction, including classroom materials and field exercises. Graduates will receive both the Basic Trapping certification and Land Trapping Certification, allowing the purchase of a trapping license and those with a valid trapping license to participate in the coyote land trapping certification.

Registration is mandatory and limited to a pre-determined number of students for each location. Courses are usually posted on the Hunter Registration System 60 days in advance of the course date and participants can register 30 days prior. You can filter by event type to find a trapping course on the list. Register Here

  • Students must demonstrate safe trap handling skills and pass a 50 question multiple choice exam.
  • Wear weather and season appropriate clothing. Footwear must be closed toe and suitable for wet and/or muddy conditions.
  • All students under 18 years of age must be registered and accompanied by a parent or legal guardian. The parent or guardian must sign the student registration card at the field day.
  • Many facilities are not located near food options. It is recommended students bring a bagged lunch.

The Connecticut CE/FS Program receives 75% of its funds from the Federal Aid in Wildlife Restoration Program. The remaining 25% state match is derived by using the value of the services provided by the volunteer instructors. The Federal Aid in Wildlife Restoration Program is funded by the excise tax paid by sportsmen on rifles, shotgun, ammunition, handguns, and archery equipment.

Partnering to fund conservation and connect people with nature.

Content last updated in November 2022.