Hydes Taxidermy

Taxidermist in Palatka, Florida

(386) 326-62727354 Crill Ave, Palatka, FL 32177View on Yelp
Hydes Taxidermy - taxidermy in Palatka, FL

About Hydes Taxidermy

Hydes Taxidermy is located in Palatka, Florida, a town on the St. Johns River that has long been a destination for deer hunters and freshwater anglers alike. Putnam County is one of North Florida's most productive hunting regions, with large tracts of timber and agricultural land holding strong populations of whitetail deer and wild hogs. The shop is a local resource for outdoorspeople who want their harvests preserved properly. You can reach Hydes Taxidermy at (386) 326-6272.

Services

Taxidermy

Services & Process

North Florida's hunting culture drives demand for a broad set of services at shops like this one. Whitetail deer shoulder mounts are a staple, involving careful preparation of the cape, form fitting, and detailed eye and nose finishing to achieve a lifelike result. Full body mounts for wild hogs and bears are also common in this part of the state, requiring larger forms and more complex posing work. Skull cleaning, antler mounting, and freshwater fish mounts from the St. Johns River round out the typical service menu.

Service Area

Hydes Taxidermy serves Palatka and the broader Putnam County area, drawing customers from surrounding communities like Interlachen, Crescent City, Pomona Park, and Georgetown. Hunters and anglers from Alachua, Marion, and St. Johns counties also make the drive given the shop's reputation in the region. Its location near the St. Johns River puts it at the center of North Florida's most active outdoor recreation territory.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I prepare a deer cape for drop-off at Hydes Taxidermy?
Field dress and cool the deer as quickly as possible after the harvest, and try to avoid cutting the cape too short on the brisket. If you can't get to the shop within a day or two, fold the cape fur-side in, bag it, and freeze it. A taxidermist can always trim excess hide, but they can't add it back if it was cut too short in the field.
What does a skull cleaning service involve?
Skull cleaning removes all tissue from the skull using a maceration or beetle colony process, leaving a clean, odor-free bone that can be mounted or displayed on its own. Antlers can be attached and the finished skull either left natural or whitened depending on your preference. It's a popular and typically more affordable alternative to a full shoulder mount.
How much does a whitetail deer shoulder mount cost in Palatka?
Prices vary by shop and the complexity of the work, but whitetail shoulder mounts in North Florida generally run between $400 and $700. Factors like a European mount versus a full shoulder mount, panel style, and any rush fees will affect the final price. Call Hydes Taxidermy directly at (386) 326-6272 for a current quote.
Can Hydes Taxidermy mount fish caught on the St. Johns River?
Freshwater species from the St. Johns, including largemouth bass, striped bass, and catfish, are common requests for local anglers. Both skin mounts and reproduction mounts are available, and the taxidermist can advise on which method works best for the specific species and size of your catch.
How long is the typical wait time during Florida deer season?
North Florida's deer season runs from around September through January, and most shops get their heaviest drop-offs right after it closes. Expect turnaround times of eight to fourteen months during peak periods. If your timeline matters, ask about the current backlog when you drop off your specimen.
Does the shop handle wild hog mounts?
Wild hogs are common throughout Putnam County and neighboring areas, and full body or shoulder mounts for hogs are a regular request at taxidermy shops in the region. Hog hides require specific preparation to prevent hair slippage, so getting the animal cooled quickly after the hunt is especially important.

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