Stevens Taxidermy

Taxidermist in Ottumwa, Iowa

(641) 777-38591310 Casper Dr, Ottumwa, IA 52501View on Yelp
Stevens Taxidermy - taxidermy in Ottumwa, IA

About Stevens Taxidermy

Stevens Taxidermy is located in Ottumwa, Iowa, a city in Wapello County in the state's southeast corner with a long history as a regional hub for agriculture and outdoor recreation. The Des Moines River runs right through Ottumwa, giving local anglers access to catfish, walleye, and bass, and the surrounding timber country produces solid whitetail deer and turkey every season. Having a taxidermist based here means hunters and fishermen throughout southern Iowa have a convenient local option. Stevens Taxidermy serves a community that takes its hunting and fishing seriously.

Services

Taxidermy

Services & Process

Stevens Taxidermy likely covers the full spectrum of trophy preservation work. Whitetail deer shoulder mounts are a mainstay in this part of Iowa, requiring careful cape preparation, form selection, and finishing work to get the eyes and expression just right. Turkey mounts, both full body and fan mounts, are common requests after Iowa's productive spring seasons. Fish mounts from Des Moines River catches and nearby lakes round out the freshwater work, with options for both skin and reproduction mounts depending on the customer's preference and whether they kept the fish.

Service Area

Stevens Taxidermy serves Ottumwa and the broader Wapello County area, with customers coming from across southeast Iowa. Nearby communities like Eddyville, Albia, and Centerville are all within reasonable driving distance. The shop's central location in Ottumwa makes it accessible to hunters and anglers spread across the southern tier of the state.

Frequently Asked Questions

What's the best way to preserve a deer cape before bringing it to the taxidermist?
After field dressing, keep the cape cool and get it to a taxidermist or freezer as quickly as possible. If you're freezing it, roll it up with the hair out and wrap it tightly in plastic to prevent freezer burn.
Can Stevens Taxidermy mount a turkey from Iowa's spring season?
Yes, turkey mounts are a common service at Iowa taxidermists, with options ranging from full body mounts to fan and beard displays. Spring turkey season in Iowa is productive, and a wall fan mount is a popular, affordable way to display a tom's impressive plumage.
How are fish from the Des Moines River typically mounted?
River fish like catfish, walleye, and bass can be mounted using the original skin or as a reproduction cast. Reproduction mounts are painted to match photos of your specific fish and tend to last longer without fading or warping over time.
Do I need an appointment to drop off a trophy, or can I just walk in?
Calling ahead is always a good idea, especially during peak season right after deer harvest. A quick call lets the taxidermist prepare for your visit and ensures someone is available to properly assess your trophy when you arrive.
What happens if my deer cape has some hair slippage?
Minor hair slippage can sometimes be worked around depending on its location and severity, but significant slippage in visible areas may affect the final result. Your taxidermist will evaluate the cape at drop-off and let you know if there are any concerns before starting work.
Are there options for displaying mounts besides a standard wall plaque?
Yes, most taxidermists offer a range of mounting hardware, including turned panels, driftwood bases, and pedestal options. Some customers opt for floor-standing pedestal mounts for full body pieces, which creates a more dramatic display than a wall mount.

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