I took my first bear in today. Iam nervous and happy at the same time. The customer wants a half mount. I have a few Questions for you all. First how hard are bears to flesh? Are there any areas of concern I should be aware of? Do they slip easily? any tips and hints you have will be greatly appreciated!
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You really need to research this stuff before you take them in! Not to lecture, but it helps to plan ahead a bit, you know.
Bears down slip easier than others, but all the same rules apply. Fleshing seems easier in the fall, as theres plenty of fat to "grab" at once, as opposed to the thin layer of spring. Skin quickly, as black hair absorbs light as heat and can spoil. Flesh very thoroughly so that you get optimum salt penetration. Try to get him dry and right off to the tannery. I once did some bears that sat awhile, they were touchy, to say the least. Give the tannery the best speciman you can. Good luck Tom!
Ill push it again theres only 1 way to really flesh them easy HYDRO 3000 psi preasure washer and your into it ..Once you get the thinning and ear and paws turned hit with the preasure washer you wont regret it..........
I wouldnt ever again use a knife..AINT worth it and theres no way they will be fleshed as well and the hydro..
Split the paws and take em all the way down to the claw....
Bill, thanks for your comments. I have researched mounting a bear. I was just wanting to get some info from other people and see what they had to say. Sometimes you can research all you want, but until you actually get your hands dirty,or greasey in this matter you don't know what to expect. Don't take that the wrong way because I respect your opinion. You have probably forgot more about taxidermy than I will know for some time. I have fleshed hundreds and hundreds of coons for a fur buyer, so the fleshing part will be no problem( I hope it won't be.) I plan on using a necker knife and a beam to flesh with. What exactly do you mean by "bears down" thanks again for the imput.
Do you REALLY wanna know what I meant by "bears down"? Its a damn typo because Im a nipple. It should say Bears DONT slip easier than others...meaning that they arent like red fox, or other types that ARE prone to slipping. I just suck at typing, hahaha! I guess based on the nature of your first question I assumed you hadnt researched this, thus the basic question. Sorry guy. Raccoons sure give a good insite on what to expect of bears. Good luck, and take this guys advice on the pressure washer. I would, except its too cold up here during the season.