Gophers can destroy lawns, gardens, irrigation systems, and crop fields faster than most homeowners realize. Choosing the Best Gopher Traps That Work is essential if you want immediate, effective, and long-term control.

According to agricultural extension reports, a single gopher can create up to 200 yards of tunnels per year. This level of burrowing can cause root damage, soil destabilization, and plant loss worth hundreds of dollars in a single season.

Mechanical trapping remains the most effective control method, with success rates exceeding 85% when properly placed. Unlike poisons, traps provide targeted elimination without contaminating soil, pets, or wildlife.

In this guide, we review the 10 Best Gopher Traps That Work, focusing on durability, trigger sensitivity, ease of setup, and humane efficiency. Whether you need professional-grade tunnel traps or beginner-friendly options, this list covers the most reliable solutions available today.

10  Best Gopher Traps That Work

1. Gophinator Trap – Trapline Products – Best Professional Gopher Trap For Underground Control

Gophinator Trap by Trapline Products is engineered for professional pest control results. Its stainless steel construction ensures durability in moist soil conditions. The trap’s strong jaws close instantly when triggered in active tunnels.

 

The design allows easy insertion into the main gopher tunnel. Sensitive trigger mechanisms improve capture rates significantly. It is widely recommended by agricultural extension experts.

Landowners report high success in the first 24 hours when properly set. The trap is reusable and corrosion resistant. Overall, it is a top-tier underground control solution.

Pros:
• Stainless steel
• High sensitivity
• Professional grade
• Reusable
• Durable
• Strong jaws
• Easy placement

Cons:
• Learning curve
• No safety guard
• Premium price

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2. Victor Easy Set Gopher Trap – Victor – Best Easy Set Trap For Beginners

Victor Easy Set Gopher Trap by Victor is designed for simple installation. The ergonomic handle reduces hand strain during setup. Its galvanized steel body resists rust and soil corrosion.

 

The trap fits directly into main run tunnels. A strong spring mechanism ensures immediate capture. Clear instructions make it beginner-friendly.

Homeowners appreciate its straightforward operation. It performs well in lawns and garden beds. Overall, it balances affordability and effectiveness.

Pros:
• Easy setup
• Rust resistant
• Affordable
• Strong spring
• Beginner friendly
• Reusable
• Compact

Cons:
• Smaller size
• Soil clogging
• Moderate durability

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3. Cinch Traps Gopher Trap – Cinch Traps – Best Heavy-Duty Tunnel Trap

Cinch Traps Gopher Trap by Cinch Traps is a heavy-duty solution for serious infestations. It features strong metal jaws that close tightly within active tunnels. Its compact footprint allows deep underground placement.

 

The trap’s trigger activates with minimal pressure. This improves capture rates in hardened soil. It is widely used in agricultural settings.

Farmers value its reliability and long lifespan. It withstands repeated use in challenging conditions. Overall, it is ideal for large properties.

Pros:
• Heavy duty
• Strong jaws
• Compact design
• Durable
• High capture
• Professional use
• Reusable

Cons:
• Requires digging
• Not beginner friendly
• Slightly costly

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4. Macabee Gopher Trap – Macabee – Best Traditional Wire Trap That Works

Macabee Gopher Trap by Macabee is one of the oldest and most trusted designs. Its simple wire mechanism allows quick deployment in active tunnels. The trap activates when the gopher attempts to reopen its burrow.

The lightweight design makes handling easy. It fits narrow tunnels effectively. Many professionals use two at once for higher success.

It is inexpensive and reusable. Ideal for experienced users who understand tunnel placement. Overall, it remains a proven classic.

Pros:
• Traditional design
• Lightweight
• Affordable
• Reusable
• Simple mechanism
• Effective
• Compact

Cons:
• Requires skill
• Wire bending
• Less durable

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5. Trapline Mole & Gopher Trap – Trapline – Best Dual-Use Trap For Moles And Gophers

Trapline Mole & Gopher Trap by Trapline offers dual functionality. It works in both mole and gopher tunnels effectively. The trap’s powerful jaws ensure quick capture.

It is made from corrosion-resistant metal. Setup requires locating active runs accurately. Trigger sensitivity improves efficiency.

Homeowners like its versatility. It reduces the need for multiple trap types. Overall, it provides flexible pest control.

Pros:
• Dual purpose
• Corrosion resistant
• Strong jaws
• Versatile
• Reusable
• Reliable
• Durable

Cons:
• Tunnel detection
• Moderate price
• Learning curve

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6. Victor Out O’ Sight Trap – Victor – Best Hidden Underground Gopher Trap

Victor Out O’ Sight Trap by Victor operates fully underground. Its scissor-style jaws close powerfully within tunnels. The design prevents surface exposure.

The trap is constructed from weather-resistant steel. It is reusable and long-lasting. Proper placement ensures fast capture.

It is popular among lawn owners. Discreet design improves safety. Overall, it is dependable and efficient.

Pros:
• Underground design
• Strong jaws
• Weather resistant
• Reusable
• Discreet
• Durable
• Trusted brand

Cons:
• Requires digging
• Trigger adjustment
• Soil buildup

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7. Blackhole Mole Trap – Blackhole – Best High-Sensitivity Tunnel Trap

Blackhole Mole Trap by Blackhole works effectively in straight tunnels. Its spring-loaded mechanism closes instantly upon pressure. Setup is straightforward with minimal digging.

 

Although marketed for moles, it also works for gophers. Durable materials ensure long-term use. Trigger sensitivity is high.

It is suitable for homeowners seeking efficiency. Performance improves with correct tunnel identification. Overall, it is practical and effective.

Pros:
• High sensitivity
• Spring loaded
• Durable
• Reusable
• Easy placement
• Compact
• Efficient

Cons:
• Dual usage
• Soil blocking
• Limited depth

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8. GopherHawk Trap – GopherHawk – Best No-Dig Gopher Trap System

GopherHawk Trap by GopherHawk eliminates the need for deep digging. It uses a probe tool to locate tunnels precisely. The trap is inserted vertically for activation.

 

This design reduces soil disturbance. It includes a reusable setting tool. Capture rates are high when tunnels are accurately located.

It is ideal for beginners. Safer design reduces hand injury risk. Overall, it offers innovative convenience.

Pros:
• No digging
• Safer setup
• Reusable tool
• Easy locate
• Beginner friendly
• Innovative
• Efficient

Cons:
• Higher cost
• Plastic parts
• Limited size

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9. Eliminator Gopher Trap – Eliminator – Best Budget Gopher Trap That Works

Eliminator Gopher Trap by Eliminator provides an affordable option. Its scissor-jaw design ensures effective tunnel interception. Galvanized steel construction resists rust.

 

It fits standard tunnel sizes. Trigger sensitivity is moderate but reliable. Suitable for lawn infestations.

Homeowners appreciate its low price. Works best when used in pairs. Overall, it is cost-effective.

Pros:
• Budget friendly
• Galvanized steel
• Reusable
• Compact
• Strong spring
• Easy placement
• Affordable

Cons:
• Basic build
• Moderate durability
• Limited power

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10. DK-1 Gopher Trap – DK-1 – Best Commercial Grade Gopher Control Trap

DK-1 Gopher Trap by DK-1 is widely used by professionals. Its robust metal construction ensures long lifespan. The trap fits deep tunnels precisely.

 

Trigger mechanism is highly responsive. Designed for quick elimination underground. Built for repeated commercial use.

Farmers rely on its consistent results. It withstands harsh soil conditions. Overall, it is a commercial-grade solution.

Pros:
• Commercial grade
• Durable metal
• High sensitivity
• Reusable
• Strong jaws
• Reliable
• Professional use

Cons:
• Expensive
• Requires skill
• Limited availability

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Gopher Traps That Work  FAQs

1. What is the most effective gopher trap?
Professional-grade traps like Gophinator and DK-1 offer the highest capture rates when properly placed.

2. How deep are gopher tunnels?
Main tunnels are typically 6–12 inches below the surface, though deeper runs exist.

3. Should I use two traps at once?
Yes, placing two traps in opposite directions increases success rates significantly.

4. Are gopher traps safe for pets?
When placed underground properly, risks to pets are minimal.

5. How long does it take to catch a gopher?
Many captures occur within 24–48 hours if tunnels are active.

6. Do traps work better than poison?
Yes, traps provide targeted elimination without environmental contamination.

7. Can I reuse gopher traps?
Most quality traps are fully reusable and long-lasting.

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Conclusion

In conclusion, selecting the best gopher trap that works depends on your soil conditions, experience level, and infestation severity. The runner-up options provide excellent performance for homeowners who need reliable yet budget-conscious solutions.

The Gophinator Trap stands out as the best overall choice due to its stainless steel durability, professional-grade trigger sensitivity, and consistently high capture rates. The DK-1 Gopher Trap earns runner-up recognition for its commercial reliability and heavy-duty underground performance.

Mechanical trapping remains the most effective and environmentally responsible method for gopher control. Investing in a high-quality reusable trap ensures long-term lawn and garden protection.

Take action today and choose the right gopher trap to protect your property before underground damage spreads further. Effective control starts with the right tool.