Taxidermists in Rapides Parish, Louisiana

Hunting in the pine woods around Alexandria or the Kisatchie National Forest often results in a trophy worth putting on the wall. Whether you take a heavy-racked buck in the upland hills or a limit of wood ducks from the bayous, you need a local shop that understands Louisiana game. There are currently six taxidermy services operating within Rapides Parish to handle your shoulder mounts and waterfowl displays.

These shops are located in Alexandria, Hineston, and Pineville, making them accessible after a day in the stand. Big Creek Taxidermy in Hineston is one option for hunters coming in from the western side of the parish. Most of these professionals specialize in whitetail and native birds, ensuring your mount looks natural and holds up over time. Check with individual shops regarding their current turnaround times and drop-off procedures.

6 taxidermists in Rapides Parish

Serving Alexandria, Hineston, Pineville.

Using taxidermists in Rapides Parish

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 Rapides Parish

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