9 Best Gopher Traps – Reviews & Analysis

 

Top Traps for Gophers – Guide & Comparison

 

If you are looking for the best gopher trap, but so far you haven’t been sure which product to get, we are here to offer you the optimal solution. After analyzing a broad range of information regarding the various models available on the market, we discovered that the Cinch Gopher Trap with Tunnel Marking Flag is the product you should purchase, without a doubt. Using a cinch system, this type of trap is highly efficient, and it will be able to remove the pest from your farm or garden in a timely fashion. Since it’s made from galvanized steel, it is highly durable, and it’s the ideal option to use in any weather. Because it is reusable, it’s a sound investment, and you won’t have to manipulate dangerous poisons. Should this product be out of stock, we also suggest getting the Various Black Hole Reusable Spring Loaded Gopher Trap because it offers similar advantages and is a close second.

 

 

Comparison table

 

 

 

9 Best Gopher Traps (Updated Reviews) in 2024

 

 

When you search for a gopher trap, you may soon notice that there are many different types available, and that could make the process of getting the right one challenging. To ensure that you get the model you want, we offer you a list of critically acclaimed products that you cannot go wrong with.

 

 

1. Cinch Gopher Trap with Tunnel Marking Flag 

 

If what you’re looking for is a heavy-duty trap, you can hardly get a better model than this one. You can purchase different configurations, some that come with multiple accessories to make your job of catching gophers quickly, but even if you settle for the basic package, you will still get a deadly trap that can deal with the pests in your garden.

Any rodents won’t stand a chance to this trap, but make sure that you purchase the right size for the type of pests living in your area. The trap is made from galvanized steel and comes with a cinching mechanism that makes it highly efficient.

You will also like about this trap the fact that it’s eco-friendly since it doesn’t work with any chemicals that could also pose a danger to kids and pets. As long as you use two traps at the same time opposite each other inside a gopher’s tunnel, you will manage to get rid of this pest in no time.

 

Pros

Because it is an all-purpose trap for rodents, you will find this model to be highly efficient for gophers, moles, as well as other medium-sized pests that destroy your lawn or garden.

Due to the cinch mechanism, these traps are sure to catch the critters that try to get into your garden area through tunnels; the trigger mechanism is very sensitive.

It is highly durable, as it’s made from galvanized steel and manufactured in the US, so you can rest assured that it abides by the highest standards of quality.

Since you can reuse it and it doesn’t involve the use of any poisons and other chemical substances, it is an eco-friendly trap, safe to use around the house.

 

Cons

Be well aware of the fact that this trap works best for medium-sized rodents, so smaller species of gophers and even rats might not be easy to catch.

Setting up the trap can be a bit of a hassle because the trigger is so sensitive and may start before you end up putting it in place.

Buy from Amazon.com

 

 

 

2. Various Black Hole Reusable Spring Loaded Gopher Trap 

 

Not everyone can afford to spend a lot of money on such traps, which is why having some affordable gopher traps like this model is a great thing. Other models may be difficult to set up, but not this one. Due to its design that looks like a cylinder, the gopher walks into this trap without suspecting anything.

Once it’s inside, the trap activates and catches the critter, hence helping you get rid of the pest in your garden without any effort. It must be mentioned that this model is made from plastic, so there are no issues with rust and corrosion.

At the same time, it is very durable and can withstand any weather conditions without complaining. You can reuse this trap numerous times as its design allows it. It is a non-toxic option and one that any green-conscious property owner should take.

 

Pros

An original design makes this product stand out from the crowd, as it acts as a foolproof method to catch the rodents making tunnels underneath your garden.

Once a gopher is caught inside this trap, you will just have to remove it and then use the trap again, as many times as needed, so that you can declare your property pest-free.

You can use it for more than just gophers since it proves highly efficient in catching all types of rodents that usually make a mess out of lawns and gardens.

Because you don’t use poison, or any other dangerous chemical, you can rest assured that this trap won’t be a hazard for human beings.

Another thing you will like about it is how it fits so easily inside a tunnel, creating the perfect conditions for catching critters.

 

Cons

The only unpleasant part is when you have to empty the trap since the dead animals may get wedged inside, and you’ll need to work some to get them out.

Buy from Amazon.com

 

 

 

3. Sweeney’s Gopher Trap 

 

It is possible to get a cheap gopher trap if you look hard enough. Fortunately, you don’t have to do that since we have the perfect solution right here: the Sweeney’s Gopher Trap. First of all, you get 2 traps in the same package, which means that you can use the tried and tested setup of placing both inside a tunnel, facing opposite directions.

This is the method many homeowners swear by, and that’s why this model is such an excellent recommendation. The traps come with a pincher-style design, which is highly effective when it comes to killing gophers.

As the trap activates, everything happens quickly, so you won’t have to wait for the animal to die. It works without any kind of poison, and you don’t have to use it inside a tunnel if you don’t want to. You can place it just as fine next to a fresh mound, and gophers will walk right into it.

 

Pros

The 2 traps included in the package come fully assembled so you won’t be left with doing much when you need to set them up so that they can start catching gophers.

You will find clear instructions on how to place the traps in order to maximize their efficiency; the manufacturer readily supplies all the details.

Because of the pincher-style mechanism employed on the trap, the gophers caught will die quickly, so you don’t have to worry about this trap being an inhumane method to get rid of pests.

Weather-resistant, it is a durable trap that you can reuse time and time again, and in various circumstances without fear that it might get damaged.

 

Cons

While it’s true that the traps are built to last, you will notice after a while that the paint will come off and stick to your hands, so it’s better to use gloves.

Buy from Amazon.com

 

 

 

4. DK-1 Death Klutch Six Pack Gopher Traps 

 

When you’re dealing with an infestation, you most certainly want to be able to get rid of all the critters in a timely manner. If that’s the situation, you will be more than pleased with what this package offers. First of all, you will get 6 pocket gopher traps, which means that you can start the war against rodents right away.

The manufacturer includes the necessary instructions for setting up the traps. They are ideal for pocket gophers, but not only, as they can be quite efficient when dealing with other rodents, too. While they are inexpensive, these traps are built for long life.

They are made from steel, and they can be reused, so the only thing you must do is to move the traps around so that you can eradicate the infestation in your garden as fast as possible.

 

Pros

You will get an excellent deal since each package includes 6 traps that make for an excellent option when you deal with numerous critters.

These traps will destroy moles and pocket gophers alike, so you don’t have to worry that other critters might escape.

As they are made from high-quality steel, you can expect the traps to have a long life and for you to reuse them as many times as you want until the pests are driven away from your property.

You don’t have to worry about setting up the traps correctly, as the manufacturer includes all the information you need.

 

Cons

Although these traps are easy to use, if you truly want to make them extremely efficient, you will need some extras like tent poles and string to arm them correctly.

You may notice that the traps get rusty with time and usage.

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5. Aspectek Mole Gopher Trap 

 

You will notice that many of the gopher traps reviews available praise those models that allow you to keep your hands clean while dealing with pests like gophers. If you are looking for some traps that will require minimal effort on your part and also don’t require digging, the Aspectek Mole Gopher Trap is just the right choice for you.

The design will also make you take a close look at it, as it’s not like other traps we’ve described so far. This model comes with a scissor design that triggers when a critter touches it. Because of the low profile, the moles and gophers wreaking havoc in your garden won’t notice it, and, when they do, it will be too late.

It is essential to mention that this reusable trap behaves well in harsh weather, and since it’s made from galvanized steel, it won’t rust easily, as it’s usually the case with metal traps.

 

Pros

This trap is versatile, and it will help you get rid of various rodents and pests in your garden, helping you catch moles and gophers with maximum efficiency.

Its design is unique, and the scissor trap will activate quickly and without fail so that tunneling pests can be caught deftly and without the need for using a bait.

Because of its quick action, many garden owners prefer it as it is simple and easy to use at the same time.

You can rest assured that your garden will remain free of poisons and chemicals, as this model is based on a mechanical design that works like a charm.

In any weather, the trap will remain the same dependable tool for getting rid of pests, as its jaws are made from galvanized steel.

 

Cons

Releasing the trap once it caught something requires some strength, which means that this model might not be the most convenient for seniors.

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6. Duke 0 Long Spring Trap for Gopher 

 

These traps are made in South Korea and have a particular design. From the first glance, you will be able to tell that they are created for trapping and because you get a chain that you can fix to a pole, you won’t have the surprise to see that some predator took off with the dead critter caught and your trap, as well.

Because you get 6 traps in one package, they are a pretty good deal, too. You can spread these all over your property so that you can make sure that any critter that tries to get inside will meet its immediate demise.

Not only for gophers but for weasels and squirrels, too, these traps are ideal for keeping your garden or lawn protected. The holding power for these steel traps is superior, which means that animals won’t be able to break free once caught.

 

Pros

The jaw spread on these traps is 3.5 inches, so they will manage to deal deftly with critters such as gophers, squirrels, and weasels.

Because they are made from steel, they are quite durable, and you will be able to reuse them time and time again.

You will get 6 of them in the same package, which means that you can cover larger areas and protect them against rodents that could make a mess out of your garden.

The trigger mechanism is powered by springs made from tempered steel, another thing that helps with the overall durability of the traps.

Another thing you should bear in mind is that the chain and ring attached to each one will help you secure the traps in place.

 

Cons

There may be some rusting issues if you leave the traps out for long without caring for a bit of basic maintenance.

Buy from Amazon.com

 

 

 

7. P-W MFG. 6 DK-2 Gopher Getter Box Trap 

 

When you purchase this product, you will get 6 box traps that you can use for catching gophers, rats, and moles with great success. Setting up each trap is not a complicated process, and you will be able to do it with the help of the instructions provided by the manufacturer.

To make each trap work, what you must do is to find a new mound dug by rodents and then uncover the tunnel entrance. Carefully, you should place the trap at the opening you made. Any rodent that will try to use that opening will walk right into the trap.

As long as you are careful when setting up the trigger mechanism, you will not have to worry about injuring yourself. You will find the traps ideal for trapping all sorts of rodents so that your property gets the necessary level of protection.

 

Pros

You will receive a half a dozen traps so that you can guard your lawn or garden against creatures that like making tunnels in the soil.

Setting up each trap is easy, and you will discover that the manufacturer provides easy to follow instructions so that you can quickly put them to work.

Because they have the shape of a box, they are easier to work with than those with a pincher style construction.

It should also be mentioned that they are pretty cheap for what they offer, and that could also be a selling point for property owners shopping on a budget.

There is no need to use poison or other chemicals, so this is a solution to implement for keeping your pest control strategy eco-friendly.

 

Cons

The traps are made from wood, and that means that they won’t be as durable as those made from metal or plastic.

Buy from Amazon.com

 

 

 

8. P-W MANUFACTURING CO DEATH-KLUTCH STEEL TRAP GOPHER 

 

Do not let yourself fooled by the minimalist design of this trap. It manages to get the job done, and it does so in a timely and effective fashion. Many property owners prefer traps that are easy to set since they don’t want to become expert exterminators. For them and not only, this trap is just what they need.

First of all, the trap is entirely made of steel. The increased durability of a trap matters because it will allow you to use it over and over again, thus ensuring that the rodents don’t take over your lawn or garden. Due to the unique design, once a gopher steps on the trap, it gets caught, and it can never escape.

You will like the fact that the trap doesn’t work with poison or dangerous chemicals that can damage the soil or affect the health of pets and humans walking around the property. If you are looking for an effective trap to get rid of gophers, this is one of our recommendations.

 

Pros

The overall durability of a trap is essential, which is why it is a great thing to know that this trap is entirely made from steel and won’t let you down.

Its mechanism is efficient, and once a gopher gets trapped, it can’t escape, which means that the trap served its purpose well.

You should know that traps like this with fast action are humane for the critters, as they don’t torture the animal.

Because you don’t have to use poison, you will find this trap to be an effective and eco-friendly option to consider.

 

Cons

Although setting up the trap is not difficult, the problem lies with the instructions provided by the manufacturer that are not very clear and easy to understand.

The trap doesn’t come with any means to secure it to the ground, and you will have to do that unless you want to see other animals dragging the caught gopher away along with the trap.

Buy from Amazon.com

 

 

 

9. Victor 0625 The Black Box Gopher Trap 

 

Some of the most popular contraptions on the market for catching such critters are gopher box traps, and this particular model will convince you that it is the right way to capture the rodents that have been messing your property. It is not called a black box for nothing, and you will be pleased to see how effective it can be.

The choker loop design will catch gophers right away, and you will soon have no problems with such animals digging tunnels underneath your garden or lawn. You can rest assured that this trap will resist the test of time for the simple reason that it is made from top-notch materials.

The box is made from weather-resistant plastic, while the hardware is made from galvanized steel that can also deal with a lot of wear and tear. As you need to bury the trap inside the soil, you will be glad to hear that it works well, even in sandy soil.

 

Pros

You won’t have to worry that this trap will put your pets and kids in jeopardy, as all its moving parts will sit underground.

It is a non-toxic option that you will be happy to employ on your property to get rid of gophers in a timely and safe manner.

Users will be happy with its overall durability, as the box is made from plastic that can withstand any weather conditions, while the galvanized steel hardware will last for a long time, as well.

With just one click, you will be able to set the trap, and the critters will walk blindly into it, so to speak.

No matter what soil you need to use it in, the trap will behave the same and will be highly efficient; in sandy soil, it works just as fine.

 

Cons

You must be aware of the fact that this trap is more expensive than other models on the market.

Buy from Amazon.com

 

 

 

Our Comprehensive Buying Guide

 

Pest control can happen in various ways, but if you’re interested in getting rid of gophers, the only sustainable strategy is to kill them. That said, it is still up to you to decide how to go about killing them. The most humane method and the one that’s the most convenient for you, as well, is to use traps. Therefore, if you want the best gopher traps available, you need to take a look at the most critical features that qualify available products for such a title.

Various designs with their ups and downs

When you search for traps to get rid of pests in your garden, you will be overwhelmed right away by a plethora of models that all claim to be the most efficient. While many models are, indeed, efficient, there are certain aspects you shouldn’t overall.

For instance, there are cinch traps that are very simple to use. The ideal way to use them is to place two of them, facing opposite directions, inside a mole or gopher hole. That means that it doesn’t matter from which part the gopher comes, it’s most likely that it will walk straight into a trap. Cinch models are highly efficient and much appreciated by property owners.

However, you will have to dig up holes if the ones used by gophers are loaded with dirt. That’s one way of gophers to hide their traps, so, for the setup part of your strategy, you will need to put in more effort. Still, because these traps are efficient, the effort might be all worth it.

Another thing that such models might not do that well is the fact that you need to purchase them based on their size. What happens is that different gopher species have different sizes, and what works to catch gophers that live in some climates don’t work the same for smaller species. The latter can find an easy way to escape a cinch trap.

Next, you should look at the best pocket gopher traps that come with a trigger mechanism. If you ever saw a trap made for rodents, you know exactly how this design looks like. Its operation is straightforward; the gopher steps on the trigger, and it’s instantly caught and killed. While you can bury such traps inside the tunnels already made by gophers, if you want, you can just place them around fresh mounds. There’s a good chance that gophers and other rodents will walk right into it.

However, some argue that these models aren’t cheap gopher traps, which can be an important issue if you shop on a budget. Pincher traps, on the other hand, come with a design that doesn’t require as much metal like the ones mentioned earlier. They can have a part made from plastic, and that can make them more convenient for many pockets.

The traps that look like a cylinder or part of a tunnel are quite great, and they catch gophers with maximum efficiency. Since there are so many models available, you should take a look at all their ups and downs. For instance, you will discover that these traps, while they are easy to use, they are not so great when it comes to the part where you must remove the dead animal from inside.

Another design you might see on the market is one with a scissor-like mechanism. Again, if you get a good quality one, you can expect it to be quite efficient. Nonetheless, these traps should be secured to the ground, or they might attract predators that will take away the dead gopher along with the trap on which you spent quite a bit of money.

 

Overall durability

One thing that the manufacturer’s description might not be able to tell you in all honesty, but a gopher traps review could, is how durable a certain trap is. Looking at what other people have to say about a particular model can be a great idea, but you should check other specs, as well.

For instance, traps are most of the time made from metal. That’s a good thing because it means that the traps are very durable and you won’t have to buy others soon. However, metal can catch rust and corrosion, and it should be treated to withstand wear and tear. Galvanized steel and powder coated models are highly indicated.

However, you shouldn’t scoff at plastic models, either, such as the pincher style mentioned earlier. These traps are weatherproof, too, which means that you can leave them outside in the garden for a long time without a problem.

Humane, reusable, eco-friendly

These are a few terms that you surely want to describe the kind of trap you get for getting rid of the gophers in your garden. Humane means that the trap will kill a gopher quickly so that it doesn’t suffer. Reusable is a much-desired trait in any trap because it means that you will make an initial investment and then just set up the trap over and over again.

Choose eco-friendly traps; these are the ones that don’t work with any poisons or other dangerous chemicals. They are safe for humans and pets, and they don’t contaminate the soil, either.

 

 

Frequently Asked Questions

 

Q: How do you set a gopher trap?

Whether you purchase a set of gopher traps or only one, you need to know a few things about how to set it correctly. One idea would be to refer to any indications and instructions offered by the manufacturer with your purchase. However, if that’s not applicable or you lost the package, here are some necessary details.

Setting up a trap the correct way depends on the design. Some are easy to use as you only need to pull at a wire and make sure that it is placed in the correct position so that the mechanism is triggered once touched.

Others tend to look more like a puzzle, and those are usually the ones that look like a rat trap. In such cases, make sure that the wire part goes through the bottom, and not over the spring-loaded mechanism. It is a simple thing to miss, yet so essential.

Q: What are the differences between gopher traps?

While we went in-depth to explain the various models and their mechanisms now available a bit earlier, here is a short explanation of the types of traps you can find. Wire traps represent a broad category. These may look quite common to you since they look pretty much like other traps used for pest control.

Box traps are the ones that have become more and more popular lately. They look like part of a tunnel, which is why gophers won’t notice them quickly. The tunnel has one wire at one end, and that is triggered when the gopher gets inside.

The black hole type has an ominous name and for the right reason. This one looks like a cylinder, and its deadly weapon is a noose mechanism that strangles the rodent as soon as it gets inside. Somehow, the name makes it quite accurate, at least for the unfortunate gopher.

 

Q: How do you get a gopher out of its hole?

Gophers live most of their lives underground, where they make tunnels continuously, hence destroying beautiful gardens, lawns, and even farmland. To trap them, many people stand by the idea of burying traps inside their tunnels. However, if that’s not something you want to do, you can bait a gopher out of its hole.

Using some tasty incentives, like peanut butter and lettuce, you can make the gopher come out. Make sure that you place the trap in close proximity of a fresh mount so that you can catch the culprit.

Other methods include flooding and fumigation. However, you may find these strategies to be not as effective as traps. When you push water through the tunnels, the soil can become more porous, and gophers will find it easier to tunnel through. Fumigating is not that efficient, either, as gophers can seal themselves inside their tunnels until there’s no more danger.

 

 

Bibliography:

1) http://ipm.ucanr.edu/PMG/PESTNOTES/pn7433.html

2) http://www.garden-counselor-lawn-care.com/gopher-traps.html

3) https://www.bobvila.com/articles/how-to-get-rid-of-gophers/