Best Bet Taxidermy

Taxidermist in Canon City, Colorado

(719) 276-0821, Canon City, CO 81212View on Yelp
Best Bet Taxidermy - taxidermy in Canon City, CO

About Best Bet Taxidermy

Best Bet Taxidermy is located in Canon City, Colorado, a town along the Arkansas River corridor in Fremont County known equally for whitewater rafting and serious big game hunting. The surrounding terrain includes the Wet Mountains, the San Isabel National Forest, and the rugged canyons south of town, all of which produce quality mule deer, elk, pronghorn, and bear each season. Having a taxidermist in Canon City means hunters working this part of southern Colorado don't need to drive to the Front Range to find skilled work. The name suggests a straightforward, no-nonsense operation built for working hunters.

Services

Taxidermy

Services & Process

Best Bet Taxidermy likely handles the core services most southern Colorado hunters need, including deer and elk shoulder mounts, full body mounts for predators like mountain lion and bear, and rug mounts for bear and cats. Skull cleaning is a popular service here, since the rocky terrain and pronghorn density in Fremont County mean plenty of antelope and deer hunters looking for a clean, affordable display option. Fish mounts are relevant given the world-class trout fishery on the Arkansas River running right through town. Antler mounting and velvet preservation are also typical requests in a region with strong mule deer hunting pressure.

Service Area

Best Bet Taxidermy serves Canon City and the surrounding Fremont County communities, including Florence, Penrose, and Coaldale. Hunters coming from Pueblo, the Wet Mountains, and the Royal Gorge area find Canon City a convenient stop on the way home from the field.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get a brown trout from the Arkansas River mounted?
Yes, and it's a great way to preserve a trophy catch from one of Colorado's best Gold Medal fisheries. Fiberglass reproduction mounts are the most popular choice because they allow catch-and-release while still giving you a permanent, accurate display piece based on your measurements and photos.
What does a bear rug mount involve?
A bear rug mount uses the full hide, including the head, claws, and paws, laid flat or with the head posed upright on a form. The hide is tanned, the skull is cleaned and fitted with glass eyes, and the whole piece is mounted on a felt or fabric backing. It's a substantial project that takes several months.
How much does a typical deer shoulder mount cost in Colorado?
Pricing varies by studio and mount complexity, but most Colorado taxidermists charge between $400 and $700 for a standard whitetail or mule deer shoulder mount. Larger species like elk run higher, and custom poses or habitats add to the cost.
Do I need to bring in my Colorado hunting license when I drop off a trophy?
Yes, most reputable taxidermists will record your license number and tag information when you drop off a specimen. This protects both you and the studio, and it's standard practice under Colorado Parks and Wildlife regulations for documenting legally harvested game.
What's velvet preservation and how does it work?
Velvet antlers are harvested before the velvet dries and sheds in late summer. Preservation involves freeze-drying or injecting the antlers with a preservative solution to maintain the soft texture and coloring. It's a time-sensitive process, so getting the rack to a taxidermist quickly after harvest is critical.
Can a taxidermist mount a pronghorn from the Fremont County area?
Pronghorn are commonly mounted in this part of Colorado, and shoulder mounts are the most popular option. Their distinct markings and horn structure require careful work to look realistic, so choosing a taxidermist with experience handling antelope specifically is worth asking about when you call.

Is this your business?

Claim your listing to update your info and connect with customers.

Claim This Listing

More Taxidermists