In The Field: Handle fish as gently as possible to prevent scale or fin damage.
Avoid fish baskets, stringers, gaffs and landing nets whenever possible.
Avoid gutting the fish.
AT HOME: Take good color photos of your fish whenever possible. Notes pertaining to color intensities etc. will be of great help to the taxidermist.
Rinse the fish with cold water, with the scales free of all slime and blood.
Wrap in a wet towel to protect the scales and fins, then pack your fish in ice and transport to your taxidermist.
