Chasing Tail

Taxidermist in Lavina, Montana

(406) 697-0783, Lavina, MT 59046View on Yelp
Chasing Tail - taxidermy in Lavina, MT

About Chasing Tail

Chasing Tail is a taxidermy studio based in Lavina, Montana, a small ranching community in Golden Valley County along the Musselshell River. This part of central Montana is known for productive mule deer hunting and a rural outdoor lifestyle where fishing and hunting aren't just hobbies. The name suggests a casual, outdoors-first attitude that likely appeals to everyday hunters rather than trophy-only clientele. Reach the studio at (406) 697-0783 to talk through your project with someone who clearly has a sense of humor about the craft.

Services

Taxidermy

Services & Process

A studio in Lavina would focus on the species most relevant to central Montana hunting, particularly mule deer, whitetail, and antelope shoulder mounts. Fish taxidermy is a natural fit given the Musselshell River and nearby Fort Peck Reservoir, which draw anglers for walleye, northern pike, and paddlefish. Skull cleaning is a practical, lower-cost service that many local hunters prefer for a clean display without the full expense of a traditional mount. Bird mounts for sharp-tailed grouse, Hungarian partridge, and pheasant also fit the agricultural landscape of Golden Valley County.

Service Area

Chasing Tail serves Lavina and the surrounding Golden Valley County area, including hunters from Roundup, Ryegate, and the ranching communities along the Musselshell River valley. The studio is well situated for central Montana hunters who don't want to haul a trophy all the way to Billings. Anyone hunting the river breaks and wheat country between the Bighorn and Judith mountains would find this a convenient local option.

Frequently Asked Questions

What fish species do taxidermists near Lavina typically mount?
Walleye, northern pike, and catfish from the Musselshell drainage and Fort Peck Reservoir are common requests in this part of Montana. For larger fish like paddlefish, most taxidermists use fiberglass reproductions built from your measurements and photos.
Can I get an antelope shoulder mount done in central Montana?
Absolutely. Pronghorn antelope are one of the most common trophies in central Montana, and local taxidermists here are experienced with the species. Antelope hides are thin and require careful handling, so proper field care is especially important.
How do I transport a deer from a remote ranch to a taxidermist in Lavina?
Keep the carcass or cape as cool as possible during transport, and avoid leaving it in a hot vehicle. If the drive is long, salting the hide before transport is a good safeguard against spoilage or slippage.
Are there taxidermists in the Musselshell area who work with upland birds?
Yes, bird mounts are a standard offering for studios in central Montana where sharptail grouse and Hungarian partridge hunting are popular local traditions. Freeze the bird whole immediately after harvest and deliver it frozen for the cleanest results.
What's the difference between a skin mount and a reproduction for fish?
A skin mount uses the actual fish hide stretched over a form, while a reproduction is a hand-painted fiberglass model. Reproductions are more durable, hold color better over time, and are now the preferred method for most species.
How long does a deer shoulder mount typically take at a small rural studio?
Small studios working at a careful pace often quote 12 to 18 months for a shoulder mount, sometimes longer if the taxidermist handles every step personally. The wait is usually worth it when the result is a truly handcrafted piece rather than a rushed production mount.

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