Contact your local Soil Conservation Service, fish and wildlife district biologist or Extension aquaculture or wildlife specialist for more information on proper pond construction. Unfortunately, this also decreases cover for a variety of desirable fish and wildlife species. The most practical solution to muskrat problems is to remove individual animals. Muskrats can be shot in the early morning or at dusk with a .22 caliber rifle. However, the most effective and practical method of removing problem animals is trapping.
Muskrats are among the easiest furbearers to trap.
Conibear traps are recommended because they kill the animal almost instantly. Leg-hold traps must be set near deeper water. This is necessary to prevent escape because muskrats instinctively dive into the water when alarmed. Upon diving, the animals quickly drown. These trails are usually easy to see if the water is clear, or you can feel them underwater with your hands.