How To Get A Fish Mounted: Preserving Your Catch

Want to keep that trophy catch forever? You’re in the right place! This guide will tell you how to get a fish mounted, covering everything from initial steps to final display. Can you mount any fish? Yes, if it’s in good condition! Who mounts fish? Professional taxidermists specializing in aquatic life.

Mounting a fish is a fantastic way to preserve a special memory. It’s not just about having a decoration; it’s about capturing the moment you landed that prized catch. Whether it’s a massive saltwater marlin or a beautifully colored freshwater trout, a well-done mount will be a conversation starter and a cherished keepsake for years to come. This detailed guide will walk you through the entire process of fish preservation, from selecting the right taxidermist to understanding the different mounting techniques.

How To Get A Fish Mounted
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Deciding On Preservation: Skin Mount vs. Reproduction Mount

When you decide to mount your fish, the first crucial decision is choosing between a traditional skin mount and a reproduction mount. Each has its pros and cons, and the best choice depends on the condition of your fish and your personal preferences.

The Skin Mount: Capturing the Original

A skin mount uses the actual skin of your fish. This is the most traditional method and can result in a very lifelike representation if done correctly.

The Skin Mount Process:

Field Preparation: Immediately after catching your fish, proper handling is key. If you plan to get it mounted, avoid touching the fish excessively with your hands. The oils from your skin can degrade the skin over time.
Measurement and Photography: Take clear, detailed photographs of your fish from multiple angles. Include measurements of the total length and girth. This is vital for accuracy, especially if the skin is damaged.
Preservation: Keep the fish as fresh as possible. Wrap it in a damp cloth and place it in a plastic bag. Store it in a cooler with ice, ensuring the ice doesn’t directly melt onto the fish and waterlog it. Freezing is an option, but it must be done carefully to avoid damaging the delicate skin. If you freeze it, wrap it tightly in plastic to prevent freezer burn.
Delivery to Taxidermist: Transport the fish to your chosen taxidermist as soon as possible. If you cannot deliver it immediately, ensure it remains properly chilled or frozen.

Advantages of a Skin Mount:

Authenticity: It’s the actual skin of your fish, offering a genuine piece of your angling experience.
Lifelike Detail: When done by a skilled taxidermist, the skin can retain incredible color and texture detail.
Cost-Effective (Sometimes): For certain species and sizes, a skin mount can be less expensive than a high-quality reproduction.

Disadvantages of a Skin Mount:

Durability Concerns: Fish skin is delicate and can be susceptible to damage from insects, moisture, and improper handling over time.
Color Fading: Natural colors can fade over time, requiring repainting or touch-ups.
Potential for Warping: The skin can shrink or warp if not preserved and mounted correctly, especially if it was damaged before preservation.
Condition Dependent: This method is only viable if the fish is in excellent condition. Any significant damage, missing scales, or rough handling can compromise the final mount.

The Reproduction Mount: Perfect Likeness, Lasting Durability

A reproduction mount, often called a fish casting or replica mount, is made from a mold. The taxidermist creates a mold of your fish, and then a new fish form is cast from this mold using resin or fiberglass. The original fish is returned to you or discarded after the mold is made.

The Reproduction Mount Process:

Field Preparation: Similar to a skin mount, careful handling is important. However, the condition of the original fish is less critical for the final mount itself, as it’s the mold that matters.
Measurement and Photography: Accurate measurements and clear photos are essential for creating a detailed replica.
Mold Creation: The taxidermist will either take a direct mold of your fish (if it’s in good condition) or use detailed photographs and measurements to create a pre-made mold that matches your fish’s species, size, and pose.
Casting: A new fish form is cast from the mold using durable materials like polyurethane resin.
Painting and Finishing: This is where the artistry truly shines. The replica is meticulously painted to match the colors and patterns of your original fish, using your photographs as a reference.

Advantages of a Reproduction Mount:

Durability: Reproduction mounts are incredibly durable and resistant to damage, moisture, and insects. They won’t warp or shrink.
Color Preservation: The painted colors are more stable and less prone to fading than natural fish skin.
Ideal for Damaged Fish: This is the perfect option if your fish was injured during the fight or handling, or if you want to release a record-breaking fish but still preserve its likeness.
Weight: They are typically lighter than skin mounts.

Disadvantages of a Reproduction Mount:

Cost: High-quality reproduction mounts can be more expensive than skin mounts due to the detailed labor involved in mold creation and painting.
Less “Authentic” (to some): While the artistry is superb, some anglers prefer the tangible connection of having the actual skin.

Choosing the Right Taxidermist: Your Key to a Lifelike Mount

The skill of your taxidermist is paramount to the success of your fish mount. A good taxidermist is an artist as much as a craftsman. Here’s what to look for when choosing a taxidermist:

Research and References:

Portfolio Review: Ask to see examples of their previous work, especially mounts of the same species you caught. Look for natural poses, accurate coloration, lifelike eyes, and smooth finishes.
Ask for Recommendations: Talk to other anglers, bait and tackle shops, and fishing guides. Word-of-mouth referrals are often the most reliable.
Online Reviews: Check for online reviews and testimonials from previous clients.

What to Look For in a Taxidermist’s Work:

Accurate Anatomy and Pose: Does the fish look like it did in the water? Is the pose natural and dynamic?
Lifelike Eyes: The eyes are often called the “soul” of the mount. They should be clear, well-placed, and have a lifelike sparkle.
Natural Coloration: Colors should be vibrant but accurate for the species. They should appear to glow with life, not look flat or artificial.
Finishes: Check for smooth fins, detailed scale work, and a clean overall finish. Avoid mounts with visible glue lines, poorly blended paint, or rough edges.
Customer Service: A good taxidermist will be communicative, transparent about pricing and timelines, and happy to answer all your questions.

Discussing Your Expectations:

Before committing, have a thorough discussion with your taxidermist. Bring your photos and measurements. Discuss the desired pose, the specific colors you remember, and any unique markings on your fish. This communication is vital for ensuring you both have the same vision for the final mount.

The Fish Mounting Process: A Step-by-Step Overview

While the specifics can vary slightly between taxidermists and mounting types, here’s a general outline of the fish mounting process:

For Skin Mounts:

Receiving and Inspection: The taxidermist receives your fish and inspects it for condition, potential issues, and necessary repairs.
Fleshing: The skin is carefully removed from the fish’s body, and all flesh and fat are meticulously scraped away. This is a critical step to prevent decay and odor.
Preservation/Tanning: The skin is treated with preserving chemicals and often tanned to make it pliable and durable.
Patterning and Assembly: A form (usually made of foam or wood) is carved or selected to match your fish’s exact measurements and desired pose. The prepared skin is then carefully fitted and glued onto this form.
Fin Setting: The fins are carefully positioned and dried in place, often using pins, cardboard, or specialized drying racks.
Detailing and Painting: Any missing scales or fin rays are meticulously repaired or replicated. The fish is then expertly painted to match the original coloration, using your reference photos.
Eye Setting: Lifelike artificial eyes are carefully selected and set to complete the lifelike appearance.
Finishing: A protective sealant or finish is applied to protect the paint and the mount from environmental factors.

For Reproduction Mounts:

Mold Creation: As mentioned earlier, a mold is created from your original fish or from precise measurements and photos.
Casting: The new fish form is cast from the mold using durable materials.
Trimming and Sanding: The cast is cleaned up, and any imperfections from the casting process are sanded smooth.
Assembly: If the fish is cast in sections, they are assembled and glued together.
Priming and Painting: The cast is primed, and then the taxidermist meticulously hand-paints the fish to match your reference photos. This is where the artistry truly transforms the blank cast into a lifelike replica.
Eye Setting: Artificial eyes are set.
Finishing: A protective clear coat is applied.

Special Considerations: Mounting Saltwater Fish vs. Freshwater Fish

While the core principles of fish preservation and mounting remain the same, there are nuances when dealing with mounting saltwater fish and mounting freshwater fish.

Mounting Saltwater Fish:

Saltwater fish often exhibit vibrant, iridescent colors and can be larger and more powerful.

Coloration: The dazzling blues, greens, oranges, and yellows of many saltwater species require a taxidermist with a keen eye for color matching and blending. Reference photos are crucial.
Size and Weight: Larger saltwater fish can be extremely heavy, requiring strong internal support structures during the mounting process to prevent sagging.
Dorsal Spines and Fins: Many saltwater species have sharp spines and large, flowing fins that need careful handling and setting to achieve a natural appearance.
Gill Rakers: Some saltwater fish have prominent gill rakers that require special attention for realistic detail.

Mounting Freshwater Fish:

Freshwater species often have more subtle but equally beautiful colorations and patterns.

Coloration: Think of the deep reds and browns of a large trout, the distinct spotting of a bass, or the pearlescent sheen of a walleye. These require careful color mixing.
Fin Detail: Freshwater fish often have intricate fin ray structures that a good taxidermist will meticulously replicate.
Condition: Freshwater fish, especially those caught in clear, cold water, can retain incredibly vibrant colors if handled properly. However, they can also be more prone to damage on scales and fins if played too roughly.
Species Variety: The diversity of freshwater species means taxidermists must be adept at mounting everything from sleek, elongated pike to stout, round-bodied catfish.

Preserving Your Trophies: Beyond the Mount

Once your fish is mounted, it’s important to take steps to ensure its longevity. Preserving trophies involves more than just the initial mounting.

Proper Display Location:

Avoid Direct Sunlight: Sunlight will cause colors to fade over time, regardless of the mounting method.
Avoid Fluctuations in Temperature and Humidity: Extreme changes can cause damage, especially to skin mounts. Stable indoor environments are best.
Keep Away from Heat Sources: Radiators, fireplaces, and vents can dry out and damage the mount.

Cleaning and Maintenance:

Dusting: Use a soft brush, feather duster, or a can of compressed air (held at a distance) to gently remove dust.
Avoid Harsh Chemicals: Never use household cleaners or solvents on your fish mount.
Occasional Checks: Periodically inspect your mount for any signs of insect activity or damage.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: How long does it take to get a fish mounted?

A: The turnaround time can vary significantly depending on the taxidermist’s workload and the complexity of the mount. It typically ranges from 6 to 12 months, but can sometimes take longer. It’s always best to discuss estimated timelines with your chosen taxidermist.

Q: How much does it cost to mount a fish?

A: Prices vary based on the species, size, mounting method (skin mount vs. reproduction), and the taxidermist’s skill and reputation. Skin mounts for smaller fish might start around a few hundred dollars, while large, detailed reproduction mounts can cost upwards of $1000 or more.

Q: What is the difference between fish casting and a reproduction mount?

A: These terms are often used interchangeably. Fish casting refers to the process of making a mold and then casting a new fish form. A reproduction mount is the finished product created from this casting process.

Q: Can I mount a fish that I caught a while ago?

A: If the fish was properly preserved (e.g., frozen correctly without freezer burn), it may still be possible to mount it. However, the quality of the original preservation will greatly impact the final result. The fresher the fish, the better.

Q: What should I do immediately after catching a fish I want to mount?

A: Handle the fish as little as possible. Take clear photos from all angles, and get precise measurements (length and girth). Wrap the fish in a damp cloth, place it in a plastic bag, and keep it chilled in a cooler with ice, ensuring the ice doesn’t melt directly on the fish. Transport it to the taxidermist as soon as possible.

Q: How do I care for my mounted fish?

A: Keep it out of direct sunlight and away from heat and humidity fluctuations. Dust it gently with a soft brush or compressed air. Avoid using any cleaning chemicals.

By following these guidelines and choosing a skilled professional, you can ensure your prized catch is preserved beautifully, serving as a lasting testament to your angling achievements. Happy fishing, and enjoy your magnificent trophy!