Mel Smith, Hall of Fame recipient
Information & More > HoF Recipients
Minnesota Trappers Association
"Hall of Fame"
Mel Smith
Born: July 22, 1924
Hometown: Hibbing, MN
Hometown: Hibbing, MN
Mel started trapping as a young fellow with his father. It was something he always wanted to do more of. When he started, his interest became more spread out over all animals.
He worked very hard to retain the bounty system for Minnesota. At that time wolves were the problem, up to a point they were successful. Many of the men he talked to at that time were interested in belonging to an association for the trapper. So, he and his friends started a fledgling trappers association in Minnesota.
They held the first fur auction in Minnesota and coached and instructed exhibitors in improvement of fur handling. Held two posts as a trappers association member. He was Editor of the paper for 2 years and part-time Vice President. He was also the first National Trappers Association representative. Mel Smith is best known for helping start the Minnesota Trappers Association.