Dubuque, IA
Taxidermists in Dubuque County, Iowa
If you are hunting the bluffs and river bottoms of Dubuque County, you know the quality of the deer and waterfowl coming out of this area. The rugged terrain along the Mississippi produces heavy-racked bucks and plenty of birds that deserve more than just a spot in the freezer. Finding someone local to handle your mount makes the logistics easier after a long season in the timber.
There is currently one specialized option available in the county located right in Dubuque. Eiben's Taxidermy handles local game for hunters who want to preserve their harvest. Having a shop nearby in town means you can get your trophy dropped off quickly while the hide is fresh, ensuring the best results for your shoulder mount or waterfowl display.
1 taxidermist in Dubuque County
Serving Dubuque.
Using taxidermists in Dubuque County
A taxidermist takes your cape and antlers, preps and tans the hide, then mounts the animal on a form. Most shops want the cape caped out and frozen, or the whole head delivered cold and unfrozen within a day or two of the kill.
What to ask before you commit
- What is your current turnaround time, in months?
- Do you tan in-house or send hides out?
- What deposit do you require, and is it applied to the final price?
- Can I see finished mounts of the same species?
- How should I care for the cape before I bring it in?
What it usually costs
Shoulder mounts commonly run several hundred to well over a thousand dollars depending on species, form and finish work. European mounts are typically the least expensive option. Deposits of 30-50% are standard.
Timing matters
Get the cape cold fast. Do not salt or freeze a cape you plan to have mounted without asking the shop first — hair slip from a warm hide is the single most common ruined mount.
