For no-see-ums, look for an outdoor trap that releases carbon dioxide (CO₂) and is designed to attract biting midges—not just mosquitoes. The three propane-powered options below use CO₂ as part of their lure, but they differ in controls, coverage claims, and setup. A trap’s placement matters, too: follow its instructions and give it time to work rather than expecting an instant fix.
Quick Comparison
| Trap | CO₂ and other lures | Notable feature | Best fit |
|---|---|---|---|
| OWLTRA MT2410 Outdoor Mosquito Guard | Propane CO₂, heat, and UV LED | Quiet operation and counterflow design | Yards where low-noise operation is a priority |
| Mega-Catch Ultra Pro 900 | Variable CO₂ release and adjustable attracting stimuli | Settings can be tuned to target different insects | Shoppers who want more control over the lure |
| Mosquito Magnet Executive | CO₂, heat, and moisture | Vacuum pulls insects into a net | Large yards, based on the stated coverage claim |
Our Picks: Best Co2 Trap For No See Ums reviews
OWLTRA MT2410: A Quiet Trap with Several Attractants
The OWLTRA MT2410 combines propane-generated CO₂ with a heating unit and a blue-purple UV LED. Its product description lists mosquitoes, no-see-ums, black flies, midges, and moths among the insects it is designed to attract. Once insects enter the trap, a counterflow system is intended to keep them from escaping into a collection box.
It is designed for outdoor use and is described as quiet and odorless. It works with a separately purchased 20- or 30-pound propane tank, so plan for the space and ongoing propane needs before setting it up. The instructions call for level ground in a shaded area, away from water sources and obstructions. The product description recommends regular maintenance, including propane refills and cleaning the collection area.
One important limitation is availability: the supplied listing information marks this product as unavailable. If that changes, its combination of CO₂, heat, and light may make it worth considering for a yard where quiet operation is important. It also has a stated ramp-up period, so it is not a good choice if you expect immediate results. Keep it outdoors and away from open flames, as directed.
Pros:
- Uses CO₂, heat, and UV light as attractants.
- Designed to target no-see-ums and other biting insects.
- Described as quiet and odorless.
- Collection box and counterflow design are intended to contain captured insects.
Cons:
- Propane tank is sold separately, and ongoing maintenance is required.
- The supplied listing information marks it as unavailable.
Verdict: Consider the OWLTRA if it becomes available and you want a quiet, multi-lure outdoor trap, but account for its propane needs and gradual results.
Mega-Catch Ultra Pro 900: Adjustable Lure Settings for Biting Insects
The Mega-Catch Ultra Pro 900 is an outdoor CO₂ trap built to attract mosquitoes and other biting insects. Its description specifically names biting midges, a group that includes no-see-ums, as well as sand flies and black flies. It releases variable amounts of CO₂ to imitate a feature of human or animal respiration.
Its main point of difference is its Mosquito-Attracting-Stimuli settings. The product description says these settings offer many combinations for tuning the trap to a target species, alongside a simpler one-touch “press n go” option. That flexibility may suit someone willing to adjust the setup, while the straightforward option is useful if you would rather not fine-tune the lure.
The manufacturer states that the trap can attract biting insects from as far as 150 feet. Treat that as a stated claim, not a guarantee of protection across a whole yard: results can depend on placement and conditions. Compared with the OWLTRA, the Mega-Catch emphasizes adjustable stimuli rather than quiet operation and a UV LED. Compared with the Mosquito Magnet, its description focuses on tuning the attractants rather than a vacuum-and-net capture method.
Pros:
- Specifically lists biting midges among its target insects.
- Variable CO₂ release is part of its lure system.
- Offers adjustable stimuli and a simpler one-touch setting.
- Suitable for shoppers who want to tailor the lure to different insects.
Cons:
- Fine-tuning the settings may take more effort than using a simpler trap.
- The stated attraction distance should not be treated as guaranteed yard coverage.
Verdict: The Mega-Catch is the most flexible choice here for shoppers who want adjustable settings and a trap explicitly aimed at biting midges.
Mosquito Magnet Executive: A Propane Trap for Larger Yards
The Mosquito Magnet Executive uses propane to create a lure made from CO₂, heat, and moisture. A vacuum then draws insects into a net. Its product description positions it as an outdoor trap for properties up to one acre, making the stated coverage a key reason to consider it for a larger yard.
The manufacturer says it begins working right away, with noticeable results often taking seven to ten days. That distinction matters: the trap can start operating immediately, but a meaningful reduction in biting insects is not promised on day one. The description recommends continuous operation to help disrupt the breeding cycle and calls for official replacement nets every 21 days.
The supplied listing information marks this model as unavailable, and its propane tank is not included. The product data also describes it as both “plug-in” and cordless, so check the listing and instructions carefully to confirm the power setup before buying. Compared with the Mega-Catch, it has a clearly described vacuum-and-net method; compared with the OWLTRA, its stated coverage makes it the option aimed most directly at larger properties.
Pros:
- Uses CO₂, heat, and moisture to attract insects.
- Vacuum capture directs insects into a net.
- Stated coverage is up to one acre.
- Designed for continuous outdoor operation.
Cons:
- Propane tank is not included, and replacement nets are part of ongoing upkeep.
- The supplied listing information marks it as unavailable; confirm its power setup before purchasing.
Verdict: If available, the Executive is the strongest fit of these three for a larger property, provided you are comfortable with propane and regular net replacement.
How to Choose a CO₂ Trap for No-See-Ums
Confirm That the Trap Targets Biting Midges
Product descriptions do not always use the common name “no-see-ums.” Look for references to biting midges, midges, or similar biting insects. The Mega-Catch and OWLTRA descriptions name midges or no-see-ums directly, while the Mosquito Magnet description focuses on mosquitoes and flying insects. A CO₂ lure can attract more than one kind of insect, but check the specific target list rather than assuming every mosquito trap is designed for no-see-ums.
Compare the Full Lure System
CO₂ is a central feature of all three traps, but each adds different details. The OWLTRA pairs CO₂ with heat and a UV LED. The Mega-Catch uses variable CO₂ and adjustable attracting stimuli. The Mosquito Magnet combines CO₂, heat, and moisture before pulling insects into a net. Choose based on the features you value, not on the number of attractants alone; the supplied information does not establish that one combination always works better.
Match the Trap to Your Yard
Think about the size and layout of the area where you want to reduce biting insects. The Mosquito Magnet states coverage up to one acre, while the Mega-Catch description gives a claimed attraction distance. Those figures are product claims, not a promise that every part of a property will be protected. For the OWLTRA, the placement instructions call for level, shaded ground away from water and obstructions. Follow the chosen model’s directions when deciding where to put it.
Plan for Propane and Maintenance
Each option is propane-powered, so include the tank and routine upkeep in your decision. The OWLTRA is described as compatible with 20- and 30-pound tanks, with the tank sold separately. The Mosquito Magnet also requires a separate propane tank and calls for replacement nets. Check what supplies a selected model needs and how often they must be replaced or replenished.
Consider Setup and Control
If you want a simpler approach, the Mega-Catch includes a one-touch setting as well as adjustable options. If you prefer a specific capture design, the Mosquito Magnet uses a vacuum and net, while the OWLTRA directs insects into a collection box. Read the setup instructions before choosing, especially if a product description leaves its power or placement details unclear.
Set Realistic Expectations
These traps are intended for outdoor use and should be treated as ongoing pest-control tools, not instant fixes. The OWLTRA and Mosquito Magnet descriptions both mention a period before noticeable results. Follow operating and maintenance instructions, and do not assume a stated attraction range means every nearby insect will be caught.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do CO₂ traps attract no-see-ums?
Some CO₂ traps are designed to attract biting midges, which include no-see-ums. The Mega-Catch and OWLTRA product descriptions specifically mention midges or no-see-ums. Check the target-insect list for the exact model you are considering.
Which of these traps names no-see-ums or midges directly?
The OWLTRA description lists no-see-ums and midges, and the Mega-Catch description names biting midges. The Mosquito Magnet description emphasizes mosquitoes and flying insects rather than naming no-see-ums.
How quickly should I expect results?
Do not expect a large reduction right away. The OWLTRA description says noticeable results may take seven to ten days, and the Mosquito Magnet gives a similar timeframe. Results can vary, so use and maintain the trap as directed.
Do these traps include a propane tank?
The OWLTRA and Mosquito Magnet descriptions say the propane tank is sold separately or not included. The supplied Mega-Catch information does not specify tank inclusion, so confirm the listing details before purchasing.
Can I use these traps indoors?
No. The OWLTRA is described as for outdoor use only, and the other two are also presented as outdoor traps. Follow the product instructions and keep outdoor equipment in its intended setting.
Which option is best for a large yard?
The Mosquito Magnet Executive is the only one of these three with a stated coverage claim of up to one acre. Treat that as the manufacturer’s claim rather than a guarantee, and consider the trap’s availability, propane needs, and net replacement requirements.
Final Recommendation
For a CO₂ trap that specifically targets biting midges and offers adjustable lure settings, the Mega-Catch Ultra Pro 900 is the most direct fit in this group. The OWLTRA is worth considering if it becomes available and quiet operation matters to you. For a larger yard, the Mosquito Magnet Executive has the clearest stated coverage claim, but its supplied listing is marked unavailable and it requires a separate propane tank. Compare the target-insect list, setup, and ongoing maintenance before choosing.