Trophy fish on the Wall

[Ryan]

I just read everyone's posts about hanging trophy fish on their walls. I am still waiting for that fish over 10#'s before I make a trip to the taxidermist. Here's my question to all of you that talked about replicas: If I were to have a replica made, what measurements do i need to get to be sure the replica accurately displays my released trophy? Also does a taxidermist do this? If not who does? and last, what is the price difference between the replicas and the actual stuffed fish?

Thanks everyone in advance!

[Goldpig]

I have been told (as I am waiting for the big one too) to have a length and girth measurement, as well as several good photos. Many taxidermists will make replicas (mine will go to Artistic Anglers when I get it). The price difference appears to be about $2 an inch. But, in my opinion, the little extra it costs for a replica is worth it since it will last longer.

[Chad]

we had a taxidermist at one of our club meetings. He said that the replica will run 125-180 more. Both take the same amount of work but you have the extra cost of the molded replica. It is very important to take lots of photos so that they can tell what the fish looked like when it was initially caught. Length and girth measurements are important. Also ask you taxidermist to get a replica from a mold which has been used as little as possible. The more it gets used the less details you will see because of wear on the mold

Natural and replica mounts are all hand painted.