I have a question on largemouth bass reproductions. I am going to start a 6 lb. 21" 15 3/4" girth largemouth and I want to buy a fiberglass reproduction. I have looked at the ones from Vandyke catelog, McKenzy, and WASCO. It is really hard to make a descision on which ones to go with because the photos of the reproduction fish are not real good.
I would like a perfessional view on which ones you guys use to make mounts for people. And also the eyes which one are the best?
Thanks a bunch for your help.
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...Select Series blanks in this size I would not hesitate to order it. They are very, very nice. The gills are cast right into the head and you can actually look into the mouth right out the gills like an actual skin mount. Plus, their quality is tops with great detail and positioning is always very natural. Dave over at Realfish is always my "go to" guy when it comes to ordering quality blanks. And "no", I am not affiliated in any way with them. I've just been very, very happy with their stuff...
Van Dykes carry the CPR reproductions. They are top of the line quality, you will not be sorry if you decide on them. They are ready to paint when you get them.
tried Archie Phillips in Alabama? 800-423-8601
These are some of the best blanks available. I have tried all the above mentioned blanks. My choice would be to call Mike Kirkhart at New Wave Taxidermy in FL. Good Luck
He makes the CPR reproductions for Van Dykes. He does sell them direct to taxidermists. He can explain the options to you, you can get them with different eyes or no eyes if you prefer. They are not cheap, so if that is a big factor don't worry about calling him. They are ABSOLUTELY ready to paint when you get them. If you know anyone who went to the WTC, ask them about the product! The fish people that i know were very impressed when they saw them there.
I won't recommend anything that I don't use. I currently have 4 on order with them and I anticipate ordering several more in the very near future. They are located in Spicer Minnesota, so that may be a consideration for shipping. His number is 320-276-8836. Or www.wyniafishreplicas.com
New Wave is the only blank I'll use now!
Wynia has by far the best out there... They may cost more but they are totaly worth it.
...Realfish and Fisherman's Tale are all up there. You will be pleased with any of these distributors.
Fyi, New Wave also Carries the Reynolds line/Realfish blanks. So that says a bit about what each thinks of the others' quality. Perhaps some of those New Wave blanks you guys ordered could have been Reynolds?
CPR supposedly nice, but too expensive for me to make anything on them...