I'm interested in starting a part-time career in taxidermy(fish). In the area where I live not many taxidermist want to mess with fish...they prefer deer...I have been looking at all the stuff involved and it seems pretty extensive. I do have a BA in ART, so, I feel pretty confident about my abilities with the airbrush...but does anyone out there know of any sites on the net, suggested video series, or any information that will help me get this show on the road?.....I know a lot of people with fish in the freezer and no one to mount 'em...I know it will take some time for me to become competent...but any helpful hints for a beginner would be appreciated.
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Don, the guy who responded to you first is corect. Most people are intimidated about fish painting and you artistic background will help. But being good at art does not mean succesfull paint jobs. The best thing you can do for yourself is start collecting reference photos from fishing magazines, catalogs, etc. Go outand catch a largemouth and take a lot of of close pictuers of things like fin position, and the shimmering colors on the scales etc. To the naked eye the spot pattern on a bass looks black, but it is really a very darl green. Study your fish. Also, if you do not want to invest in a good school, do what most part timers do, and some very good ones at that. Get the WASCO tapes, and practice. It is far better to learn on your own fish, than a customers. Just find a source or go and catch your own, and practice till you get it right. Breakthrough Magazine or other taxidermists info and help is the bet resource you have
Tom
don, if you want to start out and eliminate a lot af headaches and problems in correctly mounting fish give richard krane up in new hampshire a call. you will learn how to correctly mount a fish. his lessons will be the best money you ever spent, if your really serious about mounting fish. you won't be sorry. also, you won't meet a better person.. good luck. if you would like to discuss this further or ask any questions you could email me at ftshalvis@aol.com sincerely, tom shalvis