Taxidermy

Mounted Fish

The curriculum covers everything you need whether you are a hobbyist interested in mounting your trophy, or seeking the knowledge and skills needed to enter the taxidermy profession.

Six-week basic level courses offer students practical experience in the fundamental techniques of taxidermy. Course topics will include, but are not limited to the mounting of small and large game such as deer, raccoon and squirrel and in the identification and mounting of ducks.

Basic Level Courses (6 weeks each)

Course 2023 Course Dates Time Registration Fee
White-tailed Deer Shoulder Mounts January 17, 2023 7:00 pm-10:00 pm $150
Small Game Head Mounts February 28, 2023 7:00 pm-10:00 pm $150
Large Game Head Mounts April 11, 2023 7:00 pm-10:00 pm $150
Duck Mounts May 23, 2023 7:00 pm-10:00 pm $150


Four-week advanced level courses offer students an opportunity to expand their knowledge and gain the skills needed to continue practicing the art of taxidermy at a professional level.

Advanced Level Courses (4 weeks each)

Course 2022 Course Dates Time Registration Fee
Basic Building & Habitat July 11, 2023 7:00 pm-10:00 pm $150
Form Alterations, Anatomy & Sculpting July 25, 2023 7:00 pm-10:00 pm $150
Advanced Finishing Work & Airbrush Techniques August 8, 2023 7:00 pm-10:00 pm $150
Basic Business & Laws Pertaining to Taxidermy August 22, 2023 7:00 pm-10:00 pm $150


**Participants must provide their own specimens for each class.**
**Students under the age of 18 must be accompanied by an adult for each class.**

REGISTRATION: view and complete the registration form.

  • Payment must be received to secure your seat in the class; seats are limited!
  • Contact Howell Woods Environmental Learning Center at 919-938-0115 to pay your registration fee(s).
  • No course refunds will be issued unless Howell Woods deems it necessary to cancel the course.
  • Payments are non-transferable.
  • Registration will not be confirmed until payment is made.
  • Call 919-938-0115 to pay over the phone.

During the first class, students will receive a supply list. The cost of these supplies are not paid to the College; the student purchases them. Only the registration fee is paid to the College.

The instructor of each course is Kenneth Smith from Boon Hill Wildlife and Wild Game Processing in Princeton NC.

Please note, inclement weather can cause the schedule to change. Students will receive direct notification from their instructor or a Howell Woods representative.

For questions or further information call (919) 938-0115