Risovi Taxidermy - Where Quality Matters

It's that time of year again when hunters head to the field in search of venison, carrying on tradition and for some, a once in a lifetime trophy.

For those hunters fortunate enough their next decision could be more important than the decisions they made to bag their cherished trophy.  That decision, of course, is choosing a taxidermist.  There are many qualified and dedicated taxidermists out there today but a little research shouldn't be neglected when choosing someone to forever seal your trophy on the wall.

Do some calling around, check the internet, view their galleries and when you narrow down a few visit their shops and see their work first hand.  Ask them how they piece together their mounts, who their tannery is, where they buy components, what quality they use, etc.  And don't be afraid to challenge them.  Or in other words, get the creative juices flowing on how you'd like your animal to be set.

A taxidermist I have known for quite some time now is Jamie Risovi.  He is a dedicated hunter, family man, a teacher and one of the finest taxidermists around.  His past accomplishments speak for himself with many awards to show and not to mention, many satified customers.  But being a family man he has introduced his children into the world of taxidermy.  Recently, the Risovi family (consisting of Jamie, Haley and Lucas) took what has become a family tradition to Springfield, Illinois where they competed in the National Taxidermy Association Competition.

Jamie competed with a pedestal whitetail deer mount that Haley harvested last season. The mount won several awards, including 1st place in the Division of Excellence and the Award of Excellence.

Haley’s whitetail deer mount won 1st place in the Youth Division, which is ages 15 through 18.

Lucas followed suit being rewarded several awards with his whitetail pedestal mount. He placed first in the Children’s Division (ages 14 and below). He also won the Safari Club International award for the Best of Show in his division. To earn National Champion Lucas was required to competed against all other categories (fish, birds, mammals, etc).

Jamie, Haley, and Lucas with their mounts.

Lucas being awarded National Champion by Safari Club International