While I never held a license, I have some experience with taxidermy and taught myself to mount fish as a kid. I still have some fish hanging around that I mounted in the early 80s. These days, most of the big fish I catch I would prefer to release so rarely mount fish anymore. The process however has been greatly improved and some fish taxidermists today are highly competitive and I find their work very impressive. If you deliver a fish to be mounted, the taxidermist will skin the fish and stitch the skin, head, and fins around a form; allow it to dry; then paint and varnish the fish (some very small fish are just freeze dried). Trout are more difficult than bass due to their thin skin. This works fine but the fish can decay and fade over the years and you might have odor problems, esp if it is a big fish displayed in a humid area. There is some sentimental value to having the actual fish mounted. As some others have posted, replica mounts are another option. While the finished replica is more durable, it may not display some of the actual characteristics of the fish (like a very pronounced hook jaw or slender body). The taxidermist looks at the photo you provide and orders a "blank" made of fiberglass that is as close to your fish's size and shape and then paints the blank based on your photos. A good color photo is essential. Most of the time, replica mounts are more expensive due to the cost of blanks, esp finished ones with good, flexible fins. A blank for a 20" trout costs about $80 and this cost will be passed to you. In the end, I think a replica mount does have a lot to recommend it due to the release factor. Some things to keep in mind: Where will you hang the fish - will your lady approve? I like driftwood bases but they take up a lot of space so tell the taxidermist your maximum size that will fit. You might try getting a small trout mounted. The cost will be less, and a small trout on a driftwood base looks great and takes up less room. Finally, check the taxidermists work first. Many are great at deer heads but their fish are awful. Some do great bass but lousy trout - shop around.
