Last updated: May 8, 2009
Web site designed & hosted by Shann Davis © 2007 at Homestead™
Categories & Divisions
Categories & Divisions
Mounts will be judged in one of the following categories:
1. Pedestal Fish
2. Cold Water Fish
3. Warm Water Fish
4. Closed Mouth Whitetail
5. Open Mouth Whitetail (if any teeth are showing)
6. Birds
7. Turkey
8. Reptile
9. Gamehead
10. Large Mammal (size of coyote or larger)
11. Small Mammal (smaller than coyote)
12. Original Art
13. Reproduction

The Original Art category is in an Open Division.  All other categories are available in all other Divisions.

Awards are given to the highest scoring blue ribbon mounts in the Professional  and Master Divisions.  There are awards given for each category in the Amateur Division.  Ribbons are awarded in the Open Division.

Different Divisions for the Categories
  • Youth – 0 to 7 years old
  • Junior – 8 to 15 years old
  • Amateur – Beginner or first-time taxidermist
  • Professional – Taxidermist with advanced techniques in competition mounts. This division is judged with tough standards.
  • Master – Taxidermist who wants a higher judging standard.  Those entering this division should have mastered all of the taxidermy skills.
  • Open – All taxidermists entering mounts in the Original Art
  • Commercial – Judges will only critique from a distance, no flashlights or hands on. If you have a mount that had some drumming or issues after completing your mount but standing back it looks great. This is what the division is for - to show off your talents

You may enter any division that you feel comfortable with.  However, after 3 blue ribbons in the Amateur Division, you must advance to the Professional Division in that category.  For example, if you receive 3 blue ribbons for birds in the Amateur Division, you must enter your next bird mount in the Professional Division.  If you move up in one category, that does not automatically move you up in all categories.  Multiple mounts entered in the same Category must be entered in the same Division.  You may move up to the Master Division at your discretion.  If you are unsure which Category/Division you should be entering your mount in, please see a board member for assistance.