How-To

How to Trap a Gopher (Step‑by‑Step, with Victor Trap Instructions)

Detailed DIY trapping instructions, tunnel location, paired‑trap setup, Victor Easy Set/Black Box tips, safety, and troubleshooting.

This guide walks you through the reliable DIY method of trapping gophers in active tunnels using paired traps. Follow these steps carefully for the best chance of success.

Why trapping?

It’s the most reliable DIY method when done correctly. Pair traps, cover the opening, and check daily until new mounds stop.

Tools

2–4 Victor gopher traps (Easy Set scissor type or Black Box)
Probe or sturdy rod · small shovel/trowel · gloves · stakes/ties

Gopher Box Trap

4.6

$15-40

Effective gopher trap for efficient gopher control. Easy to set and durable for outdoor use.

Buy at Amazon

Gopher Pincer Trap

4.6

$15-40

Effective gopher trap for efficient gopher control. Easy to set and durable for outdoor use.

Buy at Amazon

Gopher Probe

4.1

$20-30

Long, slender probe for locating gopher tunnels and burrows. Made of durable metal with a comfortable handle.

Buy at Amazon

Shovel

4.5

$15-30

Durable garden shovel for digging and soil work. Comfortable handle and sturdy blade.

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Cleanup Kit (Gloves)

4.7

$8-10

Nitrile gloves for safe handling of gopher-related messes.

Buy at Amazon

Stakes & Ties

4.5

$5-15

Garden stakes and ties for securing gopher traps in place.

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Step‑by‑Step

Find an active site — choose the freshest mound(s).
Probe for the main tunnel — from the plugged side, probe 8–12 in out; expect the tunnel at 6–12 in depth.
Open the tunnel — dig a tidy access hole; clear loose soil so traps sit flush with the floor.
Set paired traps — place two traps back‑to‑back facing opposite directions; stake or tether each trap.
Block light & airflow — cover the opening (board, soil clod, or tarp).
Check at 12–24 hours — reset or move if no catch in ~48 hours; continue until no new mounds appear.

Gopher tunnel. — Gopher tunnel access hole.

Tip: Handle traps with gloves to reduce human scent; set multiple sites for faster results.

Victor® Trap Notes

Easy Set (scissor/jaw) — follow the factory setting sequence; keep fingers away from jaws; secure to a stake.
Black Box (choker‑loop) — align with straight tunnel section; ensure the trip wire/bail is properly engaged before sliding hands away.
See official PDFs in References below.

Safety & Humane Use

Keep traps away from children and pets; stake/tether every set.
Dispose of carcasses responsibly; follow local rules.
For rodenticides or fumigants, consult a licensed professional and local regulations before use.