Learn from Heimo and Edna Korth at the U.P. Trappers Convention

ESCANABA, MICH. – Maybe it was because of the cold, frosty nights in May or because of the rising fur prices, but many trappers are already getting prepared for the October season opener. The U.P. Trappers Convention will add to this excitement.

The U.P. Trappers Association Convention and Outdoor Expo is being held at the U.P. State Fairgrounds in Escanaba, Mich., on July 10 and July 11.

Vendor buildings are filling up, tailgaters are registering, inquiries are coming in and the organizers are working hard to make this the best convention ever.

The Kid’s Build & Adventure Korner is new this year and will include a hands-on building opportunity to create their own weasel and/or mink boxes. There will also be hay scrambles, panning for gold, play trap-setting contests and more.

Adults and kids can both increase their knowledge and learn new tips and tricks from some of the best – Heimo Korth, Al Dubord, Jeff Dunlap, Jeff Hagerty and five hardy Yoopers who know how to put up impressive amounts of fur despite rain, snow, freezing rain and lots of ice.

This event boasts mini raffles, can raffles, the chance to learn from vendors and hundreds of trappers while meeting many new friends or old acquaintances, kid’s games and awesome mounts and furs in the Safari Club Trailer add to the experience.

A special treat this year is getting to meet Heimo and Edna Korth from “The Last Alaskans” fame. Heimo will be sharing “Stories from the Arctic – Slideshow and Q&A” in his nearly hour-long presentation.

Heimo and Edna Korth, beloved stars of “The Last Alaskans,” have captured millions with their authentic life deep in the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge. Living more than 100 miles from the nearest road, they embody grit, humility and a deep partnership forged over decades of true off-grid living. Fans admire not only their skills, but the warmth and respect they show for each other and the land they call home.

Their daily life is anything but easy. Winters bring below-zero temperatures, relentless storms and call for demanding work like running traplines, hauling wood, hunting and maintaining hand-built cabins along the Coleen River. Their lifestyle blends Athabascan tradition, frontier self-reliance, and a disappearing way of life.

Heimo’s journey began in 1975, when he left Wisconsin for Alaska and was apprenticed under a big game guide. Over time, he honed his trapping skills, built his first cabin in 1978 and spent more than 40 years raising a family while living off the land. He primarily traps marten, often catching over a hundred in a season, along with wolf, fox, lynx and more.

To volunteer at the event, reserve booth space or find further information, contact Mary Theoret at (906) 241-6155, mltheoret@gmail.com or visit www.uptrappers.com.