southern WV trappers?

If your trap is simply tripped (not dug out), the first thing I'd think about was whether or not my trap was bedded solidly... The coyote, or other animal, should be able to step anywhere on the pattern, and the ONLY place that moves is over the pan, and that should be a "crisp" throw.

friend is life time trapper. Was called to trap coyotes who killed some sheep. He managed to foot trap a few and the rest were shot. Told how the coyote was smart like a fox. So if you have trapped some, you are doing well.

This same friend is a fur buyer for my area. Guys ask him for help or with problems. Would bet there is a person like this in your area. Check the gun shops for info. Old men are usually happy to share knowledge.

Smart buggers they are. Some animals, when in a snare know how to get out, as ive seen them do it. They stand very still, once they noticed what theyve got themselves into, and slowly back out or make slow movements of what ever has been snared. You are'nt doing any thing wrong, this happens. They may be too loose, but i doubt it, if youve caught others in the same sized snares.