Leprechauns are sneaky, mischievous rascals, you just can't trust 'em. Especially on St. Patrick's Day. So there is no other choice but to set traps for them. The good thing is, should you catch one of these shamrock-loving faeries, you can interrogate him and force him to reveal the location of his pot o' gold.
This trap was constructed out of a large coffee can. Note the friendly, green, inviting decor, sure to put even the wariest leprechaun at ease. Also the ladder--made of sticks--has an earthy, handcrafted feel to it. It resembles something they might use in their natural environment. The top of the can is covered by green construction paper and baited with a phony gold coin. (Don't use "Lucky Charms" cereal as bait, leprechauns take offense at that and will immediately be on their guard.)
All the wee fellow need do is climb up the ladder and attempt to steal the coin, then his plump belly will cause the paper cover to give way and plunge the orange-bearded sprite into the bottom of the can. There the hapless leprechaun will remain captive until he reveals the location of his gold. With the price of gold these days, though, expect the little miser to hold out for a while. Good luck!