The MTA will be having the annual pelt handling contest at the winter meeting in Brainerd. This contest is sponsored by Cumberlands Northwest Trapping Supply out of Owatonna, MN. Any member of the association can compete in the pelt handling contest. Do not be afraid to try; it only takes one pelt to try. If you want to go for the title of “Master Fur Handler,” you need to bring your best.
The contest will give points for the top three pelts of each species. Each first-place pelt will receive 5 points, second-place 3 points, and third-place 2 points for each species. Prizes will be awarded to the overall winner, the Master Fur Handler, and all first-place winners in each species. This year’s winners will receive prizes of fur handling equipment and supplies, as well as a certificate award provided by Cumberlands. They have been very supportive of the pelt handling contest.
A lot of information will be shared to try and to help improve everyone’s handling skills. Be sure to stop on over and check out the furs. Maybe you can learn some tips to help yourself. Who knows, maybe you will try to compete next year?
Please note that changes have been made to the guidelines. You may only enter one pelt for each species, but up to nine of the species are on the list. Once again, all pelts must be entered by 10:30 am. This is due to the time needed to judge all the pelts entered in the contest. We will have expert judges again this year.
A note to any competitor: Remember that you do not have to trap the animal yourself; YOU must be the one who puts it up. So, you can borrow pelts from someone else if you do the pelt handling. Please be sure that your pelts are completely dry and wiped down. Do not rush them; if they are not thoroughly dry, they could be disqualified. Please plan your pelt handling time accordingly.
Also, if any junior pelt handlers would like to have their pelts looked at, bring them in, and we can advise you if you are on the right track and give you tips on how to improve.
So, if you would like to try for the overall title or try to place in one or two species, get your pelts ready. See you at the meeting in January.
Leon
2026 MTA Winter Meeting
Guidelines for Pelt Handling Competition
***You are only allowed to enter 9 pelts out of the 15 species***
NOTE: Exceptional pelts considered for taxidermy: claws and lips left on. (Will not be penalized tag to state when registered.)
*Beaver: Shaped Ontario oval. Use small nails closely spaced. If looped lace very closely. Do not overstretch. Nose and lips removed.
Brush all pelts and wipe clean. No grease on pelts. Proper shaped boards.
You must be a member of the MTA. The judging will be during the meeting and the results will be announced at the end.
Only one pelt entry per series. You must be registered by 10:30
The top three overall will receive a gift certificate award from Cumberlands. The top three in species will be recorded but only first place in species will receive an award from Cumberlands. Pick up pelts immediately at the end of the meeting. You can enter and still have time to give to shippers or buyers.
You will be able to view all pelts entered prior to the meeting.
Leon
