Abstract: A trap for placing in the water and catching animals is shown and described. The trap includes a float configured to provide a buoyancy when floating in the water. A substantially vertical chute connects to the float. A portion of the chute enters the water and a portion of the chute rides above the water. An animal entrance is positioned on the top portion of the chute and a chamber is positioned on the bottom portion of the chute. When an animal enters the trap through the entrance, the buoyancy of the float raises the entrance to a height that the trapped animal is unable to access.