Welcome

Taxidermy is an art. Each taxidermist has their own style, so it is important to familiarize yourself with a taxidermist's work before you comission one to mount your trophy. For example, some sportsman prefer their fish mounted in an unnatural fighting pose with the mouth and gills gaping wide open, while others prefer a more natural positioning of the fish. Any taxidermist can postion the fish any way you wish, however things such as painting style (for fish) and facial details (for mammals) are very much subjective.
To see some of Skip's work, please visit our Showroom page.

Treatment of fish/deer/animals

Deer:
Bacteria that cause flesh rotting and hair-slippage start growing as soon as you have killed the animal. Do not store your deer carcass in the back of your truck or hang it for several days to "bleed" the deer. Also, please understand that if you bleed your deer by making incisions in the throat area, we will not be able to flawlessly repair the area. Your mount will most likely have noticeable patches and/or scars. Ask your deer processor to cape the deer out for a shoulder-mount or, if you plan to butcher your own deer, make sure you leave plenty of hide. It is best to provide the entire animal skin to the taxidermist and let them trim the hide to the appropriate length for your desired mount.

Most deer processors are well familiar with the proper caping process for a typical shoulder mount. We strongly suggest that you take advantage of the deer processing facility located adjacent to Skip's Taxidermy. We have worked together with Jackna's Deer Processing (ph. 330-562-5312) for over 15 years.

Other Mammals:
Small animals such as squirrels, rabbits, or muskrat may be frozen whole. For larger animals such as fox, raccoons, coyotes, and beavers, bring the whole animal to the shop as soon as you possibly can. If you prefer to skin your own animal, we generally reccomend case skinning the animal. If you are unsure about skinnning the feet and face, it is best to bring the entire animal and let Skip skin it.

Fish:
Simply place the fish in a plastic garbage bag and freeze it. A fish can be stored in this way for several months without harm. There is no need to wrap your fish in towels or newspaper; however, it is important not to thaw and refreeze your trophy before you bring it in.

Skip's Background:
Skip has been practicing taxidermy full time for over 18 years. It's not just a hobby. Skip is certified by the Ohio Association of Taxidermists and the National Taxidermists Association.