I spoke with the guy today who owns the trap. Some stuff as reported is wrong.
First thing there was no deer meat in the trap. The bait was beaver meat and he did have a piece of fur hanging for an attractant.
Second thing the guy has a key to the gate to access private land behind the gate.
Third thing is the reason the trap was pulled the next day was because he was afraid he would not be able to get to it because of snow pileing up.
I really can't see what the problem anyone would have with the trap. Dog caught, unharmed and let out. Trapper checking his trap every day and pulls because he fears he might not be able to check because of snow.
100s of trappers in the state and it is trapping season. Is it any wonder someone might find a trap?
If you are a non-trapper please understand some people fish some hunt and some trap. This is our time. If you happen upon a trap please do not tamper with it. It is against the law.
RCW 77.15.180
Unlawful interference with fishing or hunting gear — Penalty.
(1) A person is guilty of unlawful interference with fishing or hunting gear in the second degree if the person:
(a) Takes or releases a wild animal from another person's trap without permission;
(b) Springs, pulls up, damages, possesses, or destroys another person's trap without the owner's permission
