How to Clean a Taxidermy Fish

When you catch a prize fish that you want to keep as a trophy piece, you should pass the fish along to a taxidermist. This craftsman will stuff, preserve and mount the fish, creating a permanent plaque that can be proudly displayed for years to come. Cleaning the taxidermy fish is a fairly easy process, requiring just a small amount of elbow grease along with a few inexpensive household items that are already on hand in most homes.

Things You'll Need

• Cleaning rag
• Water
• Cotton swab
• Dust spray (optional)

Instructions

1. For small fish, first remove the mounted fish from the spot where it's hanging. This will prevent the mounted fish from falling off the wall, which can cause damage to the fins and other fragile areas. For large fish that cannot easily be removed from their hanging position, use caution when cleaning.

2. When the taxidermy fish becomes dusty and requires cleaning, wipe the fish down with a damp cloth. Use just a small amount of water, which will work to collect any dust that has accumulated on the fish.

3. To add an extra shine to the fish, spray a bit of furniture or dust spray onto the cloth, then rub over the fish. This will restore the shine that many fish have when you first get them from the taxidermist.

4. Use a cotton swab to reach small crevices around the face and other parts of the fish. Moisten the tip of the cotton swab with a small amount of water or dust spray.

5. Let the fish air dry, and repeat as needed to keep the fish up to your standard of cleanliness.

Tips & Warnings

• Use caution when handling the fins of the fish, which can break off easily.

References

• Silver Doctor Taxidermy: Fish Tips