GREAT OUTDOORS: Ohio State Trappers Association hosting national convention

For the first time since 2013, the Ohio State Trappers Association is hosting the National Trappers Association's annual convention. Displays and demonstrations will be headquartered at the Allen County Fairgrounds in Lima, July 28-30, with lodging arranged at the host hotel, Howard Johnson (Lima) and others.These annual conventions share some traditions with the annual traditional rendezvous held from 1825 to 1840 by free trappers and company-paid mountain men out west to provide a means to sell their furs and resupply each summer after beaver season. Like the gatherings of 200 years ago, this convention provides a chance for trappers, fur takers, predator hunters, coon houndsmen, gatherers of wild botanicals and others who enjoy the outdoor lifestyle a chance to socialize, be entertained, buy, sell and trade goods, and learn new skills. Some of the nation's leading experts will demonstrate techniques to best catch many fur-bearing species using various trap styles. The seminar/demonstration schedule can be seen at the website address listed at the end of this column. For those needing new or used supplies, dozens of outdoor vendors will be on hand to sell products. Attendees will also be looking to buy, sell and trade. Items always available include varieties of new and used traps; trap modification accessories; trap anchoring and bedding tools; lures and baits; seasonal outer wear and other clothing; footwear including waders; shoulder length waterproof gloves; instructional books, wildlife art and outdoor-themed crafts. Prepared fur pelts and taxidermy are displayed and finished garments from caps and mittens to full-length coats, stuffed animals and other novelty fur products may be on hand for purchase. Special events for women trapping enthusiasts and activities for kids make the convention inclusive to anyone with an interest in the sport of fur harvesting at any skill level. The Ohio convention will host the first-ever "She Side Women's Workshops," featuring women-led demonstrations, seminars, chats and workshops. Some of the activities that kids can participate in include shooting BB, nerf or laser weapons; a mountain man dress-up event; learning introductory trapping techniques for muskrats; using conibears, foothold and dog-proof traps; learning to read game animal sign; making and using a survival kit; and participating in games of skill. The annual awards dinner and banquet is scheduled for Thursday, July 28, at the Howard Johnson Hotel Grand Ballroom at 1930 Roschman Ave., Lima, beginning at 5:30 p.m. Admission is $35 per person, or a table of eight seats can be reserved for $400. Contact the National Trappers headquarters at 812-277-9670 to arrange payment. There will be a free "BBQ & Fixins" dinner on July 29 for NTA members, spouses and kids at the fairgrounds with John Daniel, President of the NTA. Pre-registration is required by July22 at 866- 680-8727 or at ntaheadquarters@nationaltrappers.com.Admission to the convention at the Allen County Fairgrounds is $10 per day, $20 for three days, with free admission for kids 12 and under. Food vendors will also be on hand.NTA representatives suggest that out-of-state travelers attending the convention take advantage of northern Ohio's other outdoor activities. Some that were listed included booking a chartered fishing trip on Lake Erie; spending a day at Cedar Point or the Islands; birding at a local marsh; or going on a winery tour.For a list of Lima-area hotels and the full schedule of convention events, see: www.nationaltrappers.com.