One of the keys to producing a beautiful mount starts with the care of the fish soon after it is caught. Taking care not to damage fins or lose scales will pay big dividends later. 

Fish Preperation

DO- Take several pictures of your trophy fish. This will aid in the painting process.

DO-Keep your fish alive as long as possible or keep it on ice until it can be frozen.

DO-To freeze your fish, lay it straight and protect the fins from damage. Next wrap in a wet towel and place into a plastic bag.

DON'T- Gut the fish!

DON'T- Put trophy panfish in a wire basket while fishing as it will cut the fins.

DON'T- Drag a dead fish around on a stringer all day.

DON'T- Leave the fish in the hot sun or in a livewell unless it is alive.

DON'T- wrap the fish in newspaper or tin foil.