TROPHY CARE
From the field to the Taxidermist - Here's what you need to know.



FISH - SKIN MOUNTS

    1.    Carefully examine the fish for damage and determine the best or "show" side.
    2.    Take a good 35 mm  or digital color photo.  Avoid bright sun and flash photos. 

    3.    Keep the fish alive or get it cold. If putting the fish in a cooler, keep the "show" side up
            AND PUT NOTHING ON TOP OF THE FISH.   This is very important to keep the fish
        from getting blotchy.  No ice,  no cans, no other fish - NOTHING on top of the fish!
    4.    If you cannot bring the fish in to the taxidermist right away, then you must freeze the fish. 
            Roll the fish in clean, wet rags, (do not use newspaper) be carefull to keep fins folded next to body. Place in a plastic bag (garbage bags work)
            Taking care to keep the fish as flat as possible, place it in a freezer. Remember to be carefull of tail placement , in freezer.

  

    FISH - REPRODUCTIONS

    1.    Measure the length from the nose to tip of the tail.  Fan, or spread, the tail when measuring
    2.    Measure the girth (circumference) of the fish around the belly
    3.    Weigh the fish, if possible.
    4.    Note the sex of the fish (when possible) and whether or not it is spawning.  This is most
            important for members of the trout & salmon family.
    5.    Take several good quality color photos of the fish.  
            and avoid bright sunlight. 
    6.    Release the fish (or fillet it).