Midwest Taxidermy & Tanning

Taxidermist in Independence, Iowa

(319) 929-6619, Independence, IA 50644View on Yelp
Midwest Taxidermy & Tanning - taxidermy in Independence, IA

About Midwest Taxidermy & Tanning

Midwest Taxidermy and Tanning is based in Independence, Iowa, the seat of Buchanan County and a town surrounded by some of the state's most productive whitetail and turkey habitat. The addition of tanning services alongside taxidermy is a practical combination for Iowa hunters who want their hides processed into usable leather or fur. Independence sits along the Wapsipinicon River, a waterway that draws anglers for walleye and smallmouth bass, giving this studio a natural dual audience among hunters and fishermen alike.

Services

Taxidermy

Services & Process

Midwest Taxidermy and Tanning handles both traditional mounting work and hide processing under one roof. Taxidermy services likely include deer shoulder mounts, European skull cleaning, fish mounts, and bird work for Iowa's pheasant and turkey seasons. The tanning side of the business involves treating raw hides with chemicals or natural agents to produce soft, preserved leather suitable for rugs, garments, or decorative use. Offering both services saves customers the hassle of coordinating with separate providers for their harvest materials.

Service Area

Midwest Taxidermy and Tanning serves Independence and Buchanan County, as well as hunters and anglers traveling from surrounding areas including Delaware, Bremer, and Linn counties. The central location in the Wapsipinicon River valley makes it a convenient stop for northeast Iowa sportsmen.

Frequently Asked Questions

What's the difference between taxidermy and hide tanning?
Taxidermy involves preserving and mounting an animal or part of one for display, while hide tanning is the process of treating a raw skin to produce soft, usable leather. Some hunters want both done from the same animal, which is why studios that offer both services together are especially convenient.
What can I do with a tanned deer hide?
Tanned deer hides are used for a wide range of purposes including rugs, wall hangings, leather crafting projects, gloves, bags, and decorative throws. The softness and usability depend on the tanning method used, so it's worth discussing your intended use with the studio upfront.
How long does hide tanning take compared to a taxidermy mount?
Tanning a deer hide typically takes 4 to 8 weeks depending on the method and current workload. A full taxidermy shoulder mount generally takes longer, often 6 to 12 months, so if you're having both done, the tanned hide will likely be ready first.
Can I have a coyote or other predator hide tanned at the same studio?
Most studios offering tanning services work with a variety of game animals beyond deer, including coyote, fox, beaver, and other furbearers. Call ahead to confirm which species the studio handles and whether fur-on or leather-only tanning is available.
What fish species are most commonly mounted from the Wapsipinicon River area?
The Wapsipinicon River is known for smallmouth bass and walleye, both of which are popular candidates for mounting. Channel catfish and northern pike are also caught in area waters and make striking display mounts.
Does Midwest Taxidermy and Tanning handle deer skulls for European mounts?
European skull mounts are a standard offering at most Iowa taxidermy studios, and boiling or beetle-cleaned skulls with antlers attached are a popular, lower-cost alternative to full shoulder mounts. It's worth asking about both methods since each produces a slightly different look.

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