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SPORTSMEN.COM |
HOW TO HANDLE YOUR TROPHY FISH
by John Mcgee creeknationtaxidermy@hotmail.com 1. The first thing to remember in preserving your Trophy is to not string the fish if at all possible. If you must string the fish, insert the clip in the center of the lower lip directly behind the jaw bone. This will create a hole, but it is more easily repaired than torn gills and damage done by the weight of the fish on the gill flap. Keep the fish alive as long as possible. Take several photos, and freeze as soon as you can get it to a freezer. 2. The proper way to freeze a trophy is to lay it Flat, Compress all fins, close the mouth, then wrap it in a wet towel, being careful to cover the entire fish. Place the towel wrapped fish in a good heavy trash bag. Wrap it securely to force out as much trapped air as possible, and place in your deep freeze in a flat position. Try not to place other items on the frozen fish, as this can cause fin breakage. I have mounted fish that have been frozen in this manor for over 7 years, and there was no appreciable damage. 3. UNDER NO CIRCUMSTANCES should you wrap a fish in newspaper or any other form of paper. This will draw moisture out of the fish and can cause severe freezer burn. 4. SHIPPING: If you are not able to take your trophy to your taxidermist, due to being on a trip away from home, it is possible to ship your fish . Most motels will let you use their freezer to preserve your trophy. Once the fish is completely frozen, you can take it to Mail Boxes Etc. or other shipping facility, and they can next-day –air your trophy to your taxidermist. |
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