MISSOURI TRAPPERS ASSOCIATION
UTILIZING OUR ABUNDANT MISSOURI WILDLIFE
The Missouri Trappers Association's mission is to preserve the heritage and profession of the fur trapper, create mutual understanding and goodwill with groups or individuals by practicing and teaching the skills that will conserve and maintain a balance of nature without misuse, and provide for the harvesting of renewable resources.
About Us
Since its creation, the Missouri Trappers Association (MTA) has been dedicated to the preservation of the heritage and skills of trapping as well as the conservation and utilization of all natural resources of our state and our nation.​
The MTA was created in 1958. The original meetings consisted of about a dozen trappers gathering at a member’s house in the spring, swapping stories, and passing on tips to improve one another's success. The news of the organization spread by word of mouth and a single advertisement in a nationally circulated magazine. On April 25, 1972, the MTA was incorporated as a not-for-profit corporation under the laws of the State of Missouri. In March 1973, the association aligned with the Conservation Federation of Missouri, an affiliate of the National Wildlife Federation.​
MTA members receive a subscription to Trappers Post magazine, a subscription to the Missouri Mountain Men quarterly publication, and rights to sell at the annual fur auctions — plus other great benefits.
Membership
All new members will receive a MTA shoulder patch, MTA bumper sticker, MTA decal and a subscription to the MTA newsletter. A subscription to Trappers Post magazine is subject to membership type.
Frequently Asked Questions
Find clear answers about trapping, wildlife regulations, and the Missouri Trappers Association
How do I become a member of the Missouri Trappers Association?
Joining the Missouri Trappers Association is easy! You can become a member by filling out the online membership form or downloading a printable application from our website. Membership is open to anyone interested in trapping, wildlife management, or supporting conservation efforts in Missouri.
As an MTA member, you’ll receive our newsletter, access to local events, trapping education, and opportunities to connect with experienced trappers across the state.
What are the trapping regulations and seasons in Missouri?
Trapping regulations and seasons in Missouri are set by the Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC). These rules outline which species can be trapped, legal trap types, season dates, and tagging requirements.
Because regulations may change each year, we recommend checking the latest MDC Furbearer Hunting and Trapping Regulations guide before heading out. You can also visit our Resources page for quick links to current laws and updates.
Does the Missouri Trappers Association offer education or events for trappers?
Yes! The Missouri Trappers Association proudly offers hands-on education and events throughout the year. These include Trapper Education Courses, youth trapping camps, and statewide conventions where trappers can learn new skills, share experiences, and stay up to date on regulations and conservation topics.
Visit our Events page to find upcoming workshops, district meetings, and annual gatherings near you.
Latest News & Info
Missouri Trappers Association Fur Auction 2026
Missouri Trappers Association Fur Auction
The Missouri Trappers Association hosts an annual Fur Auction to support trappers and promote the sale of high-quality Missouri furs.
Missouri Trapper Events Coming Soon. Stay Tuned!
Each year, we host a variety of events — from regional meetings and auctions to workshops, youth programs, and our annual convention. These gatherings are great opportuni...
Welcome to the New Home of the Missouri Trappers Association
Honoring Tradition, Embracing the Future
Since its founding in 1958, the MTA has worked to preserve the heritage and skills of trapping while promoting ethical practices and balance in our ...
Contact Missouri Trappers Association
Get in touch with the Missouri Trappers Association by filling out the contact form. We appreciate your support!
For questions regarding your membership, please call
Joslyn Search: (660)292-1911
Missouri Trappers Association Districts
The Missouri Trappers Association features nine districts throughout the state. Each has its own events, such as trapping clinics and demonstrations, and represents the organization at various outdoors-related shows and events.
Our Districts
The Missouri Trappers Association features nine districts throughout the state. Each has its own events, such as trapping clinics and demonstrations, and represents the organization at various outdoors-related shows and events.
Director: Derek Search
Address: 22061 Hill Road, Linneus, MO 64653
Phone Number: 660-734-1326
Counties: Putnam, Schuyler, Scotland, Clark, Sullivan, Adair, Knox, Lewis, Linn, Macon, Shelby, Marion
Director: Doren Miller
Address: 26500 Pike 244 Clarksville, MO 63336
Phone Number: 573-242-3319
Counties: Randolph, Monroe, Ralls, Howard, Boone, Audrain, Callaway, Montgomery, Pike, Lincoln, Warren, St. Charles
Director: J.W. Zelch
Address: 3932 Rock Rd., Bourbon,MO 65441
Phone Number: 573-259-9073
Counties: Cole, Osage, Gasconade, Franklin, St. Louis, Maries, Phelps, Crawford, Washington, Jefferson, St. Francois, St. Genevieve
Director: Brad Watkins
Address: 6767 CO Rd. 284 Puxico, MO 63960
Phone Number: 573-820-2862
Email Address: beaverbandit02@gmail.com
Counties: Iron, Madison, Perry, Wayne, Butler, Bollinger, Cape Girardeau, Stoddard, Scott, Mississippi, New Madrid, Dunklin, Pemiscot
Director: Albert Spencer
Address: 2918 Carter 240 Ellsinore, MO 63937
Phone Number: 573-776-4621
Counties: Texas, Dent, Shannon, Oregon, Howell, Reynolds, Carter, Ripley
Director: Jacky Adkins
Address: 9836 SW State Rt. N Stewartsville, MO 64490
Phone Number: 816-273-4741
Email Address: adkins4@centurytel.net
Counties: Atchison, Nodaway, Holt, Harrison, Mercer, Andrew, Gentry, Dekalb, Davies, Grundy, Buchanon, Clinton, Caldwell, Livingston, Worth
Director: Trevor Sousley
Address: 103 Echo Ridge Buckner, MO 64016
Phone Number: 616-481-4121
Counties: Platte, Clay, Carroll, Chariton, Ray, Jackson, Lafayette, Saline, Cass, Johnson, Pettis, Cooper
Director: Zelbert Joe Tannehill
Address: 60 Cave Drive Eldon, MO 65026
Phone Number: 573-298-3039
Counties: Bates, Henry, Benton, Morgan, Moniteau, Miller, Vernon, St. Clair, Hickory, Camden, Polk, Dallas, Laclede, Pulaski
Director: Rob LeForce
Address: 1623 Twilight Crane, MO 65633
Phone Number: 417-920-7250
Email Address: robleforce@gmail.com
Counties: Barton, Jasper, Newton, McDonald, Dade, Lawrence, Barry, Greene, Webster, Wright, Christian, Douglas, Stone, Taney, Ozark
Fur Auction
UTILIZING OUR ABUNDANT MISSOURI WILDLIFE
Each year, the Missouri Trappers Association hosts a premier Fur Auction that draws trappers, buyers, and wildlife enthusiasts from across the region. This event celebrates our state’s rich heritage of responsible fur harvesting and conservation, providing a lively marketplace where pelts are showcased, bids are placed, and stories are exchanged. With a focus on quality, ethics, and community, the auction offers an opportunity not only to trade furs but to build connections, support sustainable trapping practices, and share in a tradition that honors Missouri’s wild resources. Join us for an immersive experience where craftsmanship, conservation, and camaraderie come together under one roof.
Contact Missouri Trappers Association
Get in touch with the Missouri Trappers Association by filling out the contact form. We appreciate your support!
For questions regarding your membership, please call
Joslyn Search: (660)292-1911
MTA Affiliates & Sponsors
