Black Bear rugs/tanned/blankets MN recommendations

[VikingsGuy]

My son and I are heading to NW Ontario in a few weeks for our first black bear hunt. The outfitter suggests we bring the hides home frozen in coolers as there are no nearby options that they would recommend (plus then you have to ship down to US at further cost). Not something I have room for in the freezer so I need to get ahead of the curve and have a plan for our return. Any recommendations for a taxidermy/rug guy in Minnesota or western Wisconsin? The closer to the Twin Cities the better.

 

[NEWHunter]

Sorry I can’t help with a taxi in that area, but be careful how you freeze it. Throwing a warm rolled up hide in the freezer can trap heat in the interior and lead to spoiling.

 

[bogey]

I have used Tom Stuck at After the Hunt in Antigo Wi, he did an amazing job on my rug (and ducks). I drove over from the Red Wing area to have him do the work.

 

[Horse]

Dreamcatcher Taxidermy in Eau Claire, about 2 hr drive for you. He's done my daughter's half mount and wife's rug. Also some of my deer. Both turned out excellent. He's not cheap, but you get a good looking mount. He's not mounting 100lb bears in the attack pose that you see other's do. He keeps it real.
FWIW: you might want to consider a half mount. Doesnt take up as much wall and your wallet.

 

[Wilderness_56587]

Midwest Fur Dressing does a nice job if you just want to get the hide tanned

 

[LukeDuke]

Have had Jim do a few things for me. Really pleased. He’s out in Excelsior.

Minnesota Taxidermist Jim's Lake Land Taxidermy Excelsior, MN

Minnesota Taxidermist Jim's Lake Land Taxidermy located in Excelsior has been a professional taxidermist since 1981, specializing in taxidermy mounts for fish, birds, big game, exotics, shoulder, pedstal mounts, full body and European mounts.

www.jimsllt.com

 

[BrentD]

These guys are in Michigan, but you might give them a buzz or drop them a note and ask about shipping the hide directly to them. Had I killed a bear in Alaska, this is where the hide would have gone.

The Wildlife Gallery Custom Taxidermy Studio - Home

thewildlifegallery.com

Good luck with the hunt. Pictures and story will be expected...