Living the Trapper's Way – Rooted in Nature, Guided by Experience
From Vermont woods to New York traplines, TrapperSNORR is dedicated to preserving and passing on the heritage of ethical, skilled, and sustainable trapping.
Raised in Nature. Driven by Passion.
Raised in Vermont since 1971, Dan Budd’s heart has always been outdoors. He began fishing at just 5 years old and was hunting by age 10. Though surrounded by trapping as a kid, it wasn’t until 2017 that he stepped fully into the world of trapline work and fur handling in New York’s Hudson Valley.
Mentored by legendary trapper John Lobotsky of Rhinebeck, New York, Dan learned both fundamentals and timeless techniques. Today, his journey continues as he shares knowledge through trapline adventures, YouTube videos, and live demonstrations.
World-Class Chef Turned Outdoorsman Educator
Before founding Taste Budd’s Café in 2000, Dan spent over 23 years mastering the art of pastry in some of the world’s top restaurants — from New York to France. A Culinary Institute of America graduate and professor, he was recognized as one of the “Ten Best Pastry Chefs in America” by Chocolatier and Pastry Art & Design magazines.
His resume includes crafting centerpieces for the White House Easter Egg Hunt, appearances on Good Morning America, and years of global culinary influence. But the call of the wild was louder. He traded sugar for snow boots and now dedicates himself to preserving the lifestyle and traditions of fur trapping.
TrapperSNORR: Educator, Creator, Outdoorsman
Since launching his YouTube channel in 2021, Trapper Dan (as TrapperSNORR) has documented real trapline experiences, shared fur shed techniques, and inspired trappers young and old. He’s attended elite trapping seminars and even traveled to Wyoming to work with expert ranch trapper Mark “Chappy” Charpentier.
He is currently an Apprentice New York State Trapping Educator and serves on the Fur Resources Committee for the New York State Conservation Council.
Serving the Land. Serving the People.
In March 2020, Dan co-founded Red Hook Responds, a volunteer organization delivering meals, groceries, tutoring, and even garden installations to those in need. With over 26,000 requests served in under a year, Dan continues to lead as the founding Board Member.
He was honored with Dutchess County’s Frontline Award in 2021 and named Citizen of the Year in 2023 by the Red Hook Rotary Club — recognizing his unwavering commitment to community.
Meet Willie Budd: The Trapperdoodle
Born on April 12, 2024, Willie Budd is more than just a sidekick — he’s the four-legged star of TrapperSNORR’s YouTube episodes and a true working dog on the trapline. Nicknamed the “trapperdoodle,” Willie is a rare kind of trail dog with both brains and charm.
While most Maltipoos are known for cuddles and couches, Willie has a sharp nose for the wild. Riding shotgun on the ATV or trekking through woods, he helps Dan locate trap set sites by marking active animal territories. Willie also has a gift for search and alert — detecting hidden catches on drags and pointing out animal scat that Dan uses to enhance trap sets.
At home, he’s just as devoted, never straying far from Dan’s side — whether it’s yard work or a ride around town. Willie may be a designer dog by breed, but on the trail, he’s a natural-born tracker and Dan’s most faithful trapping partner.
The TrappersSNORR Mission
TrapperSNORR exists to educate and support the lifestyle of trapping, while promoting and advancing the sustainable use of wild fur and fur products. Whether mentoring youth, reviewing gear, or preserving old-school methods, Dan’s mission is to pass on knowledge with purpose and pride.
Got a Question or Idea?
Whether you’re curious about trapping, want to collaborate, or have a product you’d like reviewed — Trapper Dan is just a message away.