Taxidermists in Story County, Iowa

Story County hunters usually head toward the Skunk River bottoms or public areas like Hendrickson Marsh for deer and waterfowl. While local options for mount work are limited, you will find specialized services nearby that handle everything from shoulder mounts to European styles. Most guys in this area want a shop that understands the specific anatomy of Iowa whitetails.

If you are looking for a professional to preserve a trophy from this season, Real Life Designs in Spirit Lake is one of the primary options serving the region. They manage traditional taxidermy and custom glass work. Make sure to call ahead during the shotgun seasons to check their current turnaround times and drop-off requirements.

1 taxidermist in Story County

Serving Spirit Lake.

Real Life Designs

TaxidermistClosed

Spirit Lake, IA

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Using taxidermists in Story 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.

Other services in Story County

Meat Processors (1)