If you’re a hunter, there’s nothing quite like the thrill of a successful bear hunt.
No matter if it’s your first bear or another trophy to add to your collection, a bear mount is the ultimate way to preserve the memory of your adventure and honor the animal’s beauty and strength.
But getting the perfect mount isn’t just about dropping off your bear at the taxidermist.
It’s about understanding your options, preparing properly, and choosing the style that best tells your story.
Here are some tips about bear mounts to help you make the best decision for your trophy!
Why Choose a Bear Mount?
A bear mount isn’t just a decoration; it’s a way to capture the essence of your hunt.
From the animal’s powerful stance to its detailed fur and expression, a mount can bring your hunting story to life.
Plus, bears are some of the most iconic animals in North America, known for their strength, agility, and adaptability.
Mounting your bear is a way to honor its spirit and keep the memory of your hunt alive for years to come.
Whether displayed in your home, cabin, or office, a bear mount is sure to be a conversation starter and a point of pride.
Types of Bear Mounts
When it comes to bear mounts, the possibilities are nearly endless. Here are some of the most popular styles to consider:
1. Full-Body Mount
A full-body bear mount is the ultimate way to showcase your trophy.
It captures the bear in its entirety, highlighting its size, posture, and natural beauty.
Popular poses include standing on hind legs (a classic), walking on all fours, or even mid-action poses like swiping or climbing.
- Best For: Large spaces where the bear can be displayed as a centerpiece.
- Pro Tip: Work with your taxidermist to choose a pose that fits the bear’s personality and size.
2. Half-Body Mount
A half-body mount showcases the upper half of the bear, often with the front legs and head prominently displayed.
This style strikes a balance between full-body grandeur and practicality.
- Best For: Medium spaces or hunters looking for a dynamic display without the footprint of a full-body mount.
- Pro Tip: Consider adding a custom base, like a tree trunk or rock, for added realism.
3. Shoulder Mount
A shoulder mount focuses on the bear’s head, shoulders, and chest. It’s a classic option for hunters who want a simple yet striking display.
- Best For: Smaller spaces or collectors looking to add variety to their wall mounts.
- Pro Tip: Position the mount at eye level for maximum impact.
4. Rug Mount
Rug mounts are a timeless choice, perfect for displaying the bear’s full size while keeping things functional.
The head is typically mounted in a snarling or neutral position, with the body spread out to highlight the fur.
- Best For: Cabins, dens, or hunters who love the practical versatility of a bear rug.
- Pro Tip: Choose a backing color that complements the bear’s fur and your space.
With so many incredible options for bear mounts, the style you choose will depend on your space, personal taste, and how you want to tell the story of your hunt.
But before you can enjoy a stunning mount, there’s an important step to ensure the best results: proper preparation.
Let’s talk about what you need to do in the field to make sure your bear is ready for its transformation into a mount you’ll be proud to display.
Preparing Your Bear for the Mount
Getting a great bear mount starts in the field.
Proper preparation is key to preserving the quality of the fur and ensuring a stunning final result.
Here’s how to prep your bear:
- Handle the Hide with Care: Avoid dragging the bear to prevent damage to the fur.
- Skinning Techniques: Decide on the type of mount you want before skinning. For example, a full-body mount requires a different technique than a rug or shoulder mount.
- Keep It Cool: Heat is the enemy of fur. Get the hide cooled and to your taxidermist as soon as possible to prevent slipping or hair loss.
- Communicate with Your Taxidermist: Share your vision for the mount upfront to ensure the best outcome.
Source: National Taxidermists Association Guidelines
Proper preparation is the foundation of a great bear mount, but the work doesn’t stop there.
Choosing the right taxidermist is just as important to ensure your vision comes to life with skill and precision.
So, let’s talk next about what to look for in a taxidermist and how to collaborate with them to create a mount that exceeds your expectations.
How to Choose the Right Taxidermist for Your Bear Mount
Not all taxidermists are created equal, especially when it comes to something as intricate as a bear mount. Here’s what to look for:
- Experience with Bears: Ask to see examples of their previous bear mounts.
- Attention to Detail: Look for lifelike expressions, natural fur positioning, and overall craftsmanship.
- Customer Reviews: Check out testimonials from other hunters.
- Communication: A great taxidermist listens to your ideas and offers helpful advice to bring your vision to life.
At Turn’ER Wild Taxidermy, we specialize in creating stunning, lifelike bear mounts that capture the spirit of your hunt.
From full-body displays to custom rug mounts, we’ll work closely with you to make your dream a reality.
Why Choose Turn’ER Wild Taxidermy for Your Bear Mount?
At Turn’ER Wild Taxidermy, we understand that every bear tells a unique story here in the Lehigh Valley.
Our experience, meticulous attention to detail, and a passion for craftsmanship to create mounts that truly stand out.
We’ll guide you through every step, from choosing the right pose to ensuring proper care for your trophy.
Your Adventure, Forever Preserved
A bear mount is more than just a display.
It’s a way to relive the adventure, honor the animal, and share your story with others.
Whether you’re looking for a full-body masterpiece, a classic rug, or a striking shoulder mount, Turn’ER Wild Taxidermy in Germansville, PA is here to bring your vision to life.
Ready to create a bear mount that captures the spirit of your hunt? Contact us today to get started!