Looking for a Master taxidermist located within 2 hours drive of the Quad Cities (Davenport, IA, Moline IL) area.

So that would include areas like DuBuque, Iowa City, Northern Illinois, and possibly as far as south of Peoria, IL.

Requirements: At least several years in business, has competed in state and/or national competition and won at least a top 3 award.

I don't need competition quality, but a notch below would be nice.

I have researched a few but would like some personal input.

Not the biggest 10 point, but only the 2nd one I've ever taken, and with a bow. I'm 73 and don't want to wait 2 years to get it back.

Many taxidermists have gone to tanning hides themselves due to tanneries shutting down or long turn around times.

Thanks.

Julian Loker Taxidermy in Montrose Iowa would be my recommendation. Does awesome work !

Muchows taxidermists in galena illinois has been in business for close to 40 years or more does real nice work not sure if he meets all of the requirements though.hes extremely busy.

Andy Tarr from Amboy Illinois, retired officer has been doing taxidermy for years. I can give you his contact information if you’d like. Doesn’t hurt to make a call and ask questions. He’ll send photos of the complete process as well. All around great guy and amazing work!

Kindered SPIRITS she can fix you up.

Is a taxidermist school in West Burlington Iowa.

110 north gear ave, West Burlington, Iowa 52655 319-759-1045 , Burlington, IA, United States, Iowa
(319) 759-1045
kndsprt110@aol.com

There’s no such thing as “master” taxidermist. It only exists as a category in the World Show, but you also state you don’t need “competition quality”. So it seems you’re just looking for a taxidermist. That makes it a much easier thing to find. I’ve been to a bunch of taxidermy competitions, I hate to say it, but number of years in business and competition experience doesn’t always mean quality work. I would also be leary of anyone without a backlog, a year is common. I know it makes it more difficult, but the only way to judge is to see the work up close in person. I’ve seen some horrible work posted as examples from people suggesting their taxidermist.

I would suggest that you attend the taxidermy shows/conventions/competitions in the states that you want to do business in. A huge amount of work on display.

https://iowataxidermyassociation.com/Main/ShowVendors

Every state taxidermy association has their own competition each year. Several classes for taxidermists to enter, One class is for the "master" classification.