Trapping near pines is a good way to prevent freeze up, collect the needles and cover your set with them, the melting snow and rain will will drain through the needles.
I like setting under Pines because they keep the snow and rain at bay but I learned the hard way that too many pine needles can clog up the trap and prevent it from closing all the way.
I dig down and get dry pine duff to cover the trap with and then blend it in with a few needles (very few).
