How to Find a Taxidermist

If you are a hunter or fisherman, odds are that occasionally had a trophy in the bag that you wanted to put on display, which means finding a taxidermist. Finding a taxidermist isn't hard, but finding a good one may prove more of a challenge than hunting turkeys, or hanging from a tree when a bear spotted you before you spotted him.

One of the first things to do is to get a list of licensed taxidermists in your state. Nearly every state requires that a taxidermist take a set of tests to prove their skills, usually after studying either with an experienced taxidermist, or via home study. A licensed taxidermist will also know proper disposal and sanitation procedures - and follow them.

Keep in mind that not all taxidermists will work with all kinds of game. Most taxidermists will handle larger animals, like deer or bear, because getting the forms, skinning the hides, and curing them is a relatively straightforward process. However, some taxidermists only work with fish or fowl, because they don't have a facility or equipment big enough for working with large game. And some taxidermists will avoid working with fish and wild birds because of the fine detail work involved. Be prepared to call around to several to find one who has experience working with your game.

One of the best sources for finding a good taxidermist in your area is your state's department of natural resources or conservation. Most park rangers, game wardens, and conservation officers know the reputable taxidermists in the area, will have some idea of their skill levels, and what types of game animals they can process. Stop by a ranger station or national park's office, and ask, or call the local game warden.

Another good resource for finding the best taxidermists are natural history museums. They occasionally, but regularly, hire taxidermists to either prepare new displays, or to preserve old ones. They have a list, formal or informal, of who they like to work with, and why. Museums, when they outsource this kind of work, generally use high quality contractors who are also cost-conscious.

Local meat lockers which process bigger game occasionally work with a taxidermist. If you take in a carcass to be dressed, inquire of the locker manager, and give them instructions on what to do with the head, hide, and antlers.

Before choosing a taxidermist, visit their shop, and see what they have on display. Get familiar with their work by eyeballing it yourself. Most taxidermists like visitors coming to their shop in the slow season to look around and ask questions. Take advantage of the off-season to look for a taxidermist early - and see if they keep a list of "preferred" customers who get service ahead of walk-ins.

Finding a talented taxidermist takes an investment of your time. Be optimistic that the next game season will bring you a trophy, and plan ahead for getting your carcass mounted in a lifelike state.