Caleb Gillis, a member of the Glen Pioneers 4-H Club in Beaverhead County, really explores his own interests. Working his interest in trapping into his 4-H wildlife project, Caleb combines knowledge from experienced trappers with information from his 4-H project books and other sources.

To catch an animal, you have to know a lot about the animal’s behavior, from what it eats, to what its tracks look like, and more. Caleb can tell all kinds of things about animals like muskrat, mink, beaver, raccoon, coyote, fox and even skunks, just by looking at the ground. He has explored the whole process of setting traps, preparing pelts and even marketing them. He records what he catches, and tracks income and expenses, using the income to buy more traps.

He’s also careful with landowner relations. A neighbor who allows Caleb to trap on her land said he’s conscientious about asking for permission and always saying thanks. Caleb’s whole family attends a special youth trappers's camp in Havre where kids learn ethics, safety, and health. And, his trapping interest goes beyond 4-H. He’s received grand prizes in science fairs, too. The 12-year-old also likes the 4-H leather craft project. Trapping may not be for everybody, but Caleb’s doing 4-H his way!