Hiwassee Taxidermy

Taxidermist in Cleveland, Tennessee

5(1 reviews)
(423) 715-4574, Cleveland, TN 37311View on Yelp
Hiwassee Taxidermy - taxidermy in Cleveland, TN

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5
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About Hiwassee Taxidermy

Hiwassee Taxidermy is located in Cleveland, Tennessee, a city in Bradley County tucked between the Cherokee National Forest and the Hiwassee River, one of east Tennessee's most celebrated waterways. The studio holds a perfect 5-star rating, reflecting the confidence local hunters and anglers have placed in its work. East Tennessee's terrain is dramatically different from the western part of the state, offering mountain whitetail, black bear, wild turkey, and excellent trout fishing, all of which demand a taxidermist with specific regional expertise. This studio's name signals a deep connection to the landscape it serves.

Services

Taxidermy

Services & Process

Hiwassee Taxidermy handles the species and trophy types that east Tennessee's diverse hunting and fishing culture produces. Deer shoulder mounts for mountain whitetail require careful attention to the smaller, more compact body type common at higher elevations. Bear mounts, including full body and rug options, are a specialty that sets east Tennessee studios apart from their western counterparts. Trout and smallmouth bass reproductions from the Hiwassee and Ocoee rivers make fish mounting a natural part of the workload here. Bird mounts for wild turkey, ruffed grouse, and game birds common to the Cherokee National Forest region round out a well-rounded service menu.

Service Area

Hiwassee Taxidermy serves Cleveland and the broader Bradley County region, including customers from neighboring McMinn, Polk, and Meigs counties. Hunters and anglers who frequent the Hiwassee Wildlife Management Area and the Ocoee River corridor are a natural fit for this studio's services. The studio is also accessible to customers coming from Chattanooga and the surrounding Hamilton County area.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do you mount black bears from east Tennessee?
Black bear hunting is a tradition in the Cherokee National Forest region, and a local taxidermist is your best resource for mounting a Tennessee mountain bear. Full body mounts, rug mounts, and European skull options are all possibilities depending on your preference and budget. Bear hides require specific preparation to prevent slippage, so getting the hide to the studio quickly is critical.
Can I get a reproduction mount of a trout caught in the Hiwassee River?
Reproduction mounts are ideal for catch-and-release anglers who want to preserve their best trout without keeping the fish. You'll need accurate length and girth measurements and a photo showing the fish's coloring before release. The taxidermist uses these to create a custom fiberglass reproduction painted to match your specific catch.
Are mountain whitetail deer different to mount than lowland deer?
Yes, Appalachian whitetail deer tend to have smaller body frames and slightly different proportions than the larger deer found in west Tennessee river bottoms. A taxidermist familiar with east Tennessee deer will choose forms that match the regional body type for a more accurate, lifelike result. This kind of local knowledge shows in the finished mount.
How do I prepare a turkey for mounting after harvest?
Keep the feathers dry and avoid field-dressing if you plan to have the bird mounted. Place it in a cool, clean bag without compressing the feathers, and get it to the taxidermist or a cooler as soon as possible. Never freeze a turkey whole if you can avoid it, as ice crystals can damage feather shafts.
Do you work with the Hiwassee Wildlife Management Area hunters?
Studios in the Cleveland area are well-acquainted with the game that comes out of the Hiwassee WMA, including deer, turkey, and small game. If you've had a successful hunt on the WMA, your taxidermist will understand the terrain and species characteristics specific to that area. Calling ahead during peak season to confirm availability is always a good idea.
What's the cost difference between a full body mount and a shoulder mount for deer?
Full body mounts require significantly more time, material, and skill than shoulder mounts, often costing two to three times as much depending on the size of the animal. Shoulder mounts are the most popular choice because they're more affordable and still make a striking wall display. Your taxidermist can give you exact pricing for both options at the time of drop-off.

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