NIPAWIN –– The Saskatchewan Trappers Association held their annual summer rendezvous in Nipawin.
The province-wide event is an opportunity to broker camaraderie, education, and historical tradition between Saskatchewan’s 4,000 licenced trappers and the people of the province, said Wrangler Hamm, the president of the association.
Trapping is “not only harvest,” Hamm said. “It’s wildlife management, it's nuisance control, it’s predation controls. It’s a bit of history for Saskatchewan, as well.”
Over 100 visitors attended the event throughout Friday and Saturday, said Hamm. Included in the weekend were dozens of trade booths with items such as furs, weapons and outdoors equipment, and events such as youth BB gun competitions and skinning demonstrations.
For visiting trappers, the rendezvous gives an opportunity to discuss the state of the industry, Hamm said, such as the year’s best fur markets.
“This year, we really focused on trying to promote that industry and get people to be better at their skills and be professional with what they're doing to harvest better numbers.”
Mary Shellenberg with North American Fur Auction has been attending the annual rendezvous since 2000.
“It’s part of the job,” she said, “but it's good to see people I know, meet new people and encourage them in their endeavors.”
For Shellenberg, the fellowship between trappers is the highlight of the convention.
