Holt Lake Wildlife Taxidermy

Taxidermist in Smithfield, North Carolina

(919) 934-03483575 US Highway 301 S, Smithfield, NC 27577View on Yelp

About Holt Lake Wildlife Taxidermy

Holt Lake Wildlife Taxidermy is based in Smithfield, North Carolina, sitting right in the heart of Johnston County where deer hunting and bass fishing are serious pursuits. This area draws hunters from across the Triangle region, making local taxidermy access genuinely convenient for folks who don't want to haul a trophy hours away. The shop's name reflects the local lake culture that defines outdoor recreation here. If you've taken a buck on one of the nearby farms or pulled a striper from the Neuse River, this is a logical first call.

Services

Taxidermy

Services & Process

Holt Lake Wildlife Taxidermy handles the full range of work you'd expect from a wildlife specialist, including deer shoulder mounts, full body mounts for larger game, and fish reproductions for catches you want displayed year-round. Fish mounts can be done using the actual skin or cast reproductions, which hold color far better over time. Bird mounts, including waterfowl and turkey, require detailed featherwork and proper positioning to look natural. Skull cleaning and European mounts are also popular options for hunters who want a cleaner, more modern display.

Service Area

The shop serves Smithfield and the broader Johnston County area, including Selma, Four Oaks, and Benson. Hunters and anglers coming from the Goldsboro or Raleigh areas will find the location easy to reach via US-70.

Frequently Asked Questions

How soon after harvesting a deer should I bring it in?
You should get the cape to a taxidermist within 24 to 48 hours of harvest, especially in warmer weather. Heat causes the hide to slip, which damages the fur and makes a quality mount much harder to achieve.
What's the difference between a shoulder mount and a European mount?
A shoulder mount includes the hide, head, and neck down to the chest, mounted on a form for a lifelike display. A European mount is a cleaned skull with antlers, offering a minimalist look that's become very popular and is typically less expensive.
Can you mount a fish I caught and released?
Yes, reproduction mounts are made from fiberglass casts and don't require the actual fish. You'll just need accurate measurements and good photos of the coloring so the taxidermist can paint it to match.
How long does a typical deer mount take to complete?
Most deer shoulder mounts take between four and twelve months depending on the shop's workload and the time of year. Drop-offs during peak deer season in the fall naturally create longer wait times.
Do you work with turkey mounts?
Turkey mounts are a specialty many Johnston County taxidermists handle regularly, given how popular spring turkey season is in the region. Full strut mounts are the most dramatic option, though fan and beard displays are simpler and less costly.
How should I store a specimen if I can't bring it in right away?
Wrap the cape or fish in a plastic bag, remove as much air as possible, and freeze it. Avoid refreezing a specimen that's already thawed, as repeated temperature changes damage the tissue and affect the final result.

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