The CTPHA was formed in 1975 and originated with a group of trappers getting together and having a meeting in Fairplay. There were about 10 of them and they decided that Colorado should have its own trapping association. There was uncertainty about how many people would be interested in this, but set up the first rendezvous to be held in Fairplay. On the first night of the rendezvous there was only about 20-25 campers and units filled up. However, the next morning the valley was filled! There were upwards of 200 units and campers filled.

The Colorado Trappers and Predator Hunters Association  set up affiliations with the National Trappers Association and the Furtakers of America at the very first rendezvous. The first president was Marion L. Davie, followed by Marv Miller.

In 1981 the Colorado Trappers and Predator Hunters Association hit a peak in membership with about 789 members, and today is still holding strong with around 350 members. From the ideas of a dozen trappers came a strong organization dedicated to promoting wildlife education and management and upholding the ideals of our unique trapping heritage.