How To Mount A Fish? Learn The Expert Techniques!

Learning how to mount a fish can be an exciting and rewarding skill for any angler or hobbyist. The art of taxidermy has been around for centuries, and with the right techniques and tools, anyone can turn their catch into a beautiful display piece.

In this article, we will explore expert techniques on how to mount a fish successfully. We will cover everything from preparing your fish for mounting to choosing the right materials and methods for preserving its natural beauty.

“Mounting a fish is not just about creating a lifelike replica; it’s also about preserving the memory of your catch and showcasing it in a way that does justice to the species.”

We’ll start by discussing the tools and equipment you will need for the job, including scalpels, scissors, wire, pins, and various chemicals used in the preservation process. We’ll then move on to the step-by-step process of preparing the fish for mounting and share tips on how to achieve a realistic and visually pleasing result.

Beyond the technical aspects, we’ll delve into the creative side of fish mounting. You might choose to use different poses, backgrounds, or habitats to accentuate the unique features of your fish. We’ll provide examples and ideas to make your mounted fish truly one-of-a-kind.

So whether you’re a seasoned taxidermist looking to expand your skills or a beginner eager to learn, read on as we teach you everything you need to know about how to mount a fish!

Clean and prepare the fish

Remove all scales and guts

The first step in mounting a fish is to clean it thoroughly. To do this, you need to remove all the scales and guts from the fish. You can use a scaling tool or a knife to remove the scales from the fish. Be careful when doing this, as the scales can be very slippery.

Once you have removed the scales, you need to cut open the belly of the fish and remove all the guts. Use a sharp knife to make a clean incision along the underside of the fish. Remove all the organs carefully, being sure not to damage the meat or the skin.

“Cleaning the fish properly is important because any leftover scales or guts will cause bacteria growth and discoloration,” says Chef John Surla.

Rinse the fish thoroughly with cold water

After removing the scales and guts, rinse the inside and outside of the fish with cold running water. This will help remove any remaining blood or debris. You can also pat down the fish with a paper towel to remove any excess moisture. Make sure the fish is completely cleaned before proceeding with the next steps.

You should now have a clean and gutted fish that’s ready to be mounted. Take extra care when handling the fish at this stage, as its skin and flesh are delicate and prone to damage.

“Proper cleaning and preparation techniques help ensure your mount looks great for years to come,” says renowned taxidermist Bob Berry.

If you’re unsure about how to correctly clean and prepare a fish for mounting, consider contacting a professional taxidermist who can guide you through the process or do it for you.

• Remove all scales and guts using a scaling tool or knife
• Cut open the belly of the fish and remove all the organs
• Rinse thoroughly with cold running water

Select the right mounting method

Mounting a fish can be a great way to preserve your catch, but it’s important to choose the right method for your needs. Here are some factors to consider when selecting a mounting method:

Consider the size and weight of the fish

The size and weight of your fish will impact your choice of mounting method. Small fish may look best mounted on a wall plaque, while larger fish may require a full-body mount. Consider the overall dimensions of your fish as well as its weight before making a decision.

Choose between skin mount or replica mount

Skin mounts involve preserving the actual skin of the fish over an artificial form, while replica mounts are sculpted from resin or other materials to match the exact size and shape of the fish. Skin mounts can provide a more authentic look, but they also require careful maintenance to prevent deterioration over time. Replica mounts are often easier to care for and can offer greater durability, but they may not be able to capture every detail of your fish.

Decide on a traditional or custom mount design

You’ll also want to think about whether you prefer a traditional or custom mount design. Traditional designs typically involve a standard pose for your fish, while custom designs can incorporate unique elements like scenery or specific fishing gear. Think about what kind of display you’d like to create and whether a traditional or custom mount would work better with your vision.

Consult with a professional taxidermist for advice

If you’re unsure which mounting method is right for you, it can be helpful to consult with a professional taxidermist for guidance. They can help you weigh the pros and cons of different options and provide recommendations based on their expertise in the field.

• “Choosing a skin mount or replica depends on the species, size, and intended use of your fish,” says Fish Mounts by King Sailfish Mounts. “Skin mounts are often preferred for larger game fish due to their surface area, which offers more opportunities to meticulously highlight details like scales, fins, and eyes.”
• On the other hand, Ron’s Taxidermy notes that replica mounts can offer advantages in terms of durability and longevity. “Additionally, customers love the fact that they don’t have to worry about taking care of the mount as much with replicas since they don’t deteriorate over time,” they say.

Choose the perfect location for display

If you’ve caught a fish that you’re proud of, it’s only natural to want to put it on display. However, if you don’t mount your catch correctly, it can quickly deteriorate and lose its visual appeal.

Consider the lighting in the room

The first thing you should consider when choosing where to mount your fish is the lighting in the room. Ideally, you’ll want to select a location with moderate or low light because direct sunlight can bleach the skin and scales, causing them to fade over time.

“When mounting a fish, you’ll want to choose a spot where it won’t receive too much direct sunlight,” says fishing expert Matt Watson. “This will ensure that the colors remain vibrant and true to their original appearance.”

An area with diffused light, such as near a window covered with a sheer curtain or in a room shaded by trees, would make an ideal location for displaying your mounted catch. Avoid placing it near bright lights or lamps, which could heat up the room and cause sweating and discoloration of the fish.

Choose a location with low humidity

Selecting a location with low levels of humidity is essential to ensuring that your mounted fish does not begin to rot or develop mold. Humidity can also cause damage to the wooden frame or backing board used to hold the fish.

“Humidity is one of the biggest threats to preserving the quality of a taxidermy mount,” says Mark Sweeney, owner of Taxidermy Mounts For Sale. “You’ll need to choose a place that is dry and has good air circulation. A basement or garage are typically not great options due to dampness and temperature fluctuations.”

If you live in a particularly humid climate or have high humidity levels in your home, consider adding a dehumidifier to the space where you plan to display your mounted fish. This will help regulate the moisture in the air and prevent mold growth on your trophy catch.

Avoid direct sunlight or heat sources

As mentioned earlier, it’s essential to avoid exposing your mounted fish to direct sunlight because it can cause fading and discoloration of the skin and scales. In addition to that, heat sources such as radiators or fireplaces can also damage the fish’s appearance over time.

“The worst thing you can do is put your mount above your fireplace,” says Matt Watson. “It might seem like a great idea at first, but the smoke and heat from the fire will dry out and crack the skin.”

The ideal temperature range for displaying a taxidermy mount is between 60 and 70 degrees Fahrenheit. Keep this in mind when selecting the location for your new trophy so that it remains in pristine condition for years to come.

Ensure the mount is visible and not obstructed

Last but not least, take some time to consider whether the location you’ve selected for your mounted fish is easily visible and accessible to all those who want to see it. Avoid placing it too high up or obstructing its view with other objects.

“If you’re mounting a fish, it’s likely because you want people to see it,” says Mark Sweeney. “Make sure it’s prominently displayed and not hidden away in a corner.”

A good rule of thumb is to place your mounted fish at eye level or slightly higher so that visitors can appreciate its impressive size and beauty. If you plan to hang the fish, choose a sturdy wall anchor and make sure it’s secured properly so that it won’t fall or become damaged.

• Choose a location with moderate or low light to prevent fading
• Avoid locations with high humidity levels that could cause mold growth
• Avoid direct sunlight and heat sources such as fireplaces
• Select a visible location at eye level or slightly higher to appreciate the fish’s beauty

By following these tips, you’ll be able to select an ideal location for your mounted fish, keeping it in good condition and looking its best for years to come. Happy fishing!

Position the fish correctly

Making sure that your mounted fish looks natural and realistic is essential to creating a visually appealing final product. Positioning the fish correctly requires careful consideration of several factors, such as lighting, space, and angle.

Choose a natural and realistic pose

The key to positioning your fish in a way that looks natural and realistic is choosing a pose that mimics how the fish would look in its natural environment. Research different species of fish and observe their behavior to determine what pose feels most authentic. Consider things like swimming direction, mouth position, and fin orientation.

“The goal is to make it lifelike, so when you walk up to it, it’s kind of scary. You want people to think ‘wow, I’ve never seen anything like that before.’” -Taxidermist Steve Aufmann

Once you’ve chosen an appropriate pose, ensure that the fish’s body is carefully supported throughout the process. This prevents damage to delicate fins and scales, which can be difficult to repair or replace once the mounting process is complete.

Position the fish in a way that highlights its unique features

One of the greatest benefits of mounting a fish rather than simply photographing it is the ability to highlight its unique physical characteristics. Before beginning the mounting process, consider which features should be emphasized in order to showcase the beauty of the animal.

“When customers catch trophy fish, they love to put them on the wall not only to display them but also to remind them of that one special moment.” -Professional mount maker Greg Chapman

Focusing on things like coloration, scale patterns, or other distinctive markings can help create a more dynamic and interesting display. Additionally, considering the size and shape of the fish can help to inform the mounting process, allowing you to more effectively showcase its most attractive features.

Ensure the mount is level and straight

The final step in creating a perfectly positioned mounted fish is ensuring that the mount is properly aligned and level. This may require some adjustments during and after the mounting process in order to achieve optimal positioning.

“The quality of your work and attention to detail makes all the difference, starting with accurate measurements when skinning the fish to ensure proper body shape.” -Taxidermist Mike Messina

This is especially important if you plan to place the mounted fish alongside other wall decor or display items. A crooked mount can detract from the overall aesthetic of the room and draw unwanted attention away from your prized catch.

• Use a level throughout the mounting process to ensure proper alignment
• Avoid over-tightening screws or bolts as this can cause warping or bending of the mount material
• Double check each part of the mount for straightness before attaching it to the wall

By following these tips, you’ll be able to create a beautiful and thoroughly breathtaking mounted fish display that will catch the eye and impress anyone who sees it.

Secure the fish in place

Mounting a fish can be a great way to preserve your catch and showcase it in your home or office. However, it is important to secure the fish properly to ensure it stays in place and looks good for years to come.

Use strong and secure mounts or brackets

When selecting a mount or bracket for your fish, you want to make sure that it is both strong and secure. This will prevent any movement or shifting of the fish over time, which could damage the mount or cause it to fall off the wall.

Some common options for mounting include wood plaques, fiberglass molds, and custom-made metal brackets. Each option has its own strengths and weaknesses, so be sure to research them thoroughly before making a decision.

“Make sure the mount you choose is sturdy enough to support the weight of the fish, as well as any additional decorative elements you may want to add.” – FishingBooker.com

Ensure the mount is attached to a sturdy surface

Once you have selected the mount or bracket, it’s time to attach it to the wall. It is important to find a sturdy surface that will be able to hold the weight of the fish and mount without sagging or causing damage over time.

Drywall alone is not usually strong enough to support a mounted fish, so consider attaching the mount to a stud or using drywall anchors to provide extra support.

“The best way to ensure that your mount stays in place is by carefully choosing the location to hang it. Look for a flat, sturdy surface that won’t flex or give when pressure is applied.” – BassResource.com

Consider using additional support for larger mounts

If you are mounting a particularly large or heavy fish, it may be necessary to use additional support to ensure that it stays in place. This can include using multiple brackets, adding extra screws or bolts, or even reinforcing the wall itself.

It is always better to err on the side of caution when securing a mounted fish, as an improperly secured mount could cause damage or injury over time.

“For really large fish mounts, you should consider consulting with a professional taxidermist or a general contractor to ensure that the mount is safely and securely attached to the wall.” – HuntFishSport.com

By following these simple tips for securing your mounted fish, you can enjoy your catch for years to come while creating a beautiful and unique piece of home decor.

Preserve the fish for long-lasting beauty

Fishing is a popular hobby that provides anglers with hours of entertainment, relaxation, and fun. However, once you catch a worthy specimen, you might want to preserve it as a lasting memory. Mounting a fish, whether it’s on a wall or a pedestal, requires you to take proper care of it. Otherwise, it may rot or succumb to insects, rendering it unsightly. In this article, we’ll share some tips on how to mount a fish and keep it in good condition for years to come.

Apply a protective coating to the mount

To ensure your mounted fish stays preserved, applying a protective coat is critical. An epoxy or varnish coating will help shield the skin from sunlight, dust, moisture, and oxygen exposure, which damages and fades the coloration.- recommends Taxidermy.net

Choose a high-quality sealant that suits your specifications. Epoxy can provide additional protection from UV rays and enhance the shine of your finished work but should be done by an expert taxidermist. On the other hand, water-based polyurethane works well for people who prefer a less glossy finish and are looking to save money. Whichever coating you decide to use, make sure you paint every inch of the surface that needs covering while wearing gloves.

Keep the mount clean and dust-free

Keeping the mount free from dirt and dust is crucial to maintaining its appearance. Wipe down the exterior of the case at least once per month to prevent buildup, as recommended by Sean Mann, a certified fly fishing guide. Use a damp microfiber cloth and mild soap to clean gently, then rinse with plain water.

For any persistent stains, consider using cleaning products specially made for fish mounts, giving it a good soak in cold water can also be helpful. Avoid strong cleaners that may react with the protective sealing and cause yellowing or discoloration of the mount.

Avoid exposing the mount to extreme temperatures or humidity

Proper storage is key to prevent deterioration caused by environmental factors such as temperature fluctuations, high humidity levels, and direct sunlight exposure. Extreme temperatures damage the skin’s natural oils, drying out your fish mount and resulting in severe cracking, splitting, and loss of color vibrancy.-says Gone Outdoor

Closely consider where you place the mount in your home. Avoid hanging it near windows that receive direct sunlight during the day, heating sources like radiators or fireplaces, and damp areas like basements. An ideal surrounding for preserving mounted fish would be cool places with low light exposure, moderate humidity, and clean air ventilation.

Consider periodic touch-ups or repairs by a professional taxidermist

No matter how diligently you care for your mount, over time, atmospheric changes and wear and tear might cause small scuffs, chips and tears on your mount,- suggests practical fishing tips. Sometimes these imperfections detract from the splendor of your piece. Contact a professional taxidermist- this practice will inspect, clean, fix, and restore minor damages to keep your item in excellent condition..

Proper maintenance essential when mounting any fish species so as to last for decades while maintaining their original form, texture, and colouration. Protecting it against dust, exposure to sunlight and atmospheric conditions will hugely benefit the life span of your fish mount.

Frequently Asked Questions