Welcome to King Sailfish Mounts. fish mounts, Release Mount, Fish Taxidermy,Fish Replicas

New Items By King Sailfish Mounts

noreply@blogger.com (king) — Mon, 31 May 2010 14:09:00 +0000

Do-It-Yourself! These unpainted Fish Blanks

Do-It-Yourself! These unpainted Fish Blanks are fully assembled and ready for you to paint. Choose your own colors and style. Comes completed and primed.....all you do is apply the final coloration.
KSM fish blanks are produced from molds, originally created from carefully selected fish specimens. All of the details are captured in the mold and re-produced in the blank. By using an actual fish, this process guarantees 100 percent anatomical accuracy. In addition, our hollow cast composite fish blanks are strong yet lightweight and durable. One mold can yield thousands of fish blanks

Choose from our entire selection of saltwater and freshwater fish including sailfish, dolphin, tuna, sharks, etc. Pricing: as low as $2.00 per inch....freight additional. Phone KSM for more information, and to confirm stock and availability.

PHONE: 954/784-8377
EMAIL: kingsails@aol.com view all Saltwater Fish Mounts
view all Freshwater Fish Mounts

If you would like to leave a comment Please comment the bottom of each post. If you would like to contribute to our blog by having a post of your own please e mail kingsailfish@gmail.com

King Sailfish Mounts And The I.G.F.A.

noreply@blogger.com (king) — Mon, 22 Feb 2010 15:06:00 +0000

Lou Marron's All-Tackle World Record Broadbill Swordfish Mount Now at the IGFA Fishing Hall of Fame & Museum

by International Game Fish Association 17. February 2010 13:31

The International Game Fish Association is proud to welcome the arrival of Lou Marron's All-Tackle World Record broadbill swordfish mount to the IGFA Fishing Hall of Fame & Museum. Recently restored to its original splendor by King Sailfish Mounts (http://www.kingsailfishmounts.com/), this magnificent piece of sportfishing history will soon be on display for all to see at the IGFA Fishing Hall of Fame & Museum in Dania Beach, Florida.

(To view the photos of the delivery of the mount to IGFA please scroll down)

According to Marron’s world record application, the 1,182-pound fish was landed on May 7, 1953off the coast of Iquique, Chile. The fight lasted almost two hours and the fish measured 179.25 inches in length – which included its broken bill. At the time it was one of the heaviest fish of any kind caught on rod and reel. Along with Alfred C. Glassell's All-Tackle World Record black marlin, this catch is one of the most notable records of all time and the record is unlikely to be defeated.

The original mount of Marron’s fish, made by legendary Miami taxidermist Al Pflueger, included some real fish parts (bill, head, tail and fins) and the body of the mount, which was constructed of plaster, weighed nearly 200 pounds. After creating a new mold (it is believed the original mold is no longer in existence), King Sailfish Mounts produced a lightweight model from composite materials. The original fish parts were carefully restored and re-attached, and the mount was then finished with a special mixture of paints designed to maintain the authenticity of this historic catch.

During restoration the thick layer of plaster that covered the bill was removed for the first time, revealing the past turbulent life of this swordfish. The bill was broken almost in half; what remains has numerous deep gouges along the edges indicating it had been used aggressively. The tip appears to have been broken well before that final epic battle, for a substantial amount of scar tissue had accumulated at the break. These unique scars are visible in the restored mount.

On display at the Miami Beach Rod & Reel Club for more than 50 years, the new home of this magnificent mount is now the IGFA Fishing Hall of Fame & Museum. Please pay us a visit after March 1, 2010 to see this new addition to the Museum firsthand. Remember, as an IGFA member your admission is free. Not a member? Join today at http://www.igfa.org/.

Photos of delivery of the All-Tackle swordfish mount to IGFA Fishing Hall of Fame & Museum:

Ray Douglas of King Sailfish Mounts (http://www.kingsailfishmounts.com/) points out the deep gouges along the swordfish bill.

Ray Douglas and IGFA Conservation Director Jason Schratwieser admire the immense size of the mount.

Kent Ullberg's Sword Dance statue outside the IGFA Fishing Hall of Fame & Museum provides a fitting landmark for the new home of the All-Tackle swordfish mount.

The All-Tackle swordfish mount almost did not fit through the front doors of the IGFA Fishing Hall of Fame & Museum.

IGFA plans to place the All-Tackle mount above the IGFA Museum Store with a plaque commemorating the history behind the catch of the magnificent fish.

To veiw Marlin Mounts by King Sailfish Mounts click here

If you would like to leave a comment Please click comment the bottom of each post. If you would like to contribute to our blog by having a post of your own please e mail kingsailfish@gmail.com

The Manufacturing Of A Fish mount "Times Have Changed

noreply@blogger.com (king) — Sat, 21 Nov 2009 15:24:00 +0000

Times Have Changed ...

Likely the most famous words ever spoken
on a charter boat are, “That is the biggest
fish that we’ve ever seen ....you ought
to have that one mounted!” This phrase
has been repeatedly exclaimed to clients
fishing on charter boats around the world
since the early 1920’s.

Raymond Douglas, President of King SailfishMounts recalls his first experience
with taxidermy: “On my first “Deep Sea”
fishing trip as a child, after several hours of
trolling we finally hooked up and I was put
in the fighting chair. No sooner than I was
handed the rod, the mate soon began yelling
from the tower, “We haven’t seen one
like that for over 10 years....do you want to
mount it”? We were so excited by the level
of enthusiasm that my father and I choose
to mount our catch…only to learn sometime
later that there really wasn’t anything
that special about a 12 pound kingfish.”

Years later after moving to South Florida,
Douglas took a job as lifeguard and each
day on the way to work he would pass by
the local charter fleet. Seeing the carcasses
of sailfish and other gamefish killed only
for mounting purposes inspired Douglas
to look for a better way to help anglers
capture the memory of the exciting catch
without the need to kill these valuable fish.
In those early days, Pflueger Marine
Taxidermy was the largest in the world,
under the direction of the legendary Al
Pflueger, Sr. Pflueger mounted many of the
noteworthy game fish of that era, including
Alfred Glassell, Jr.’s 1,560-pound Black
Marlin and Louis E. Marron’s 1,182-pound
Broadbill Swordfish. Some anglers may
still remember their studio in Miami (pronounced
Miama). Pflueger’s close competitor,
J. T. Reese, Taxidermist was located in
Fort Lauderdale and was known for extreme
quality and perfection, and remained
the only major taxidermist to mount actual
fish skins well into the 1980’s.
Times change and so did the marine taxidermy
industry. Manufacturing processes
were very labor intensive and production
materials were being labeled as hazardous,
which dramatically increased costs. At
the same time, sportsmen were becoming
aware of the importance of marine conservation
and the ever increasing pressure on
fish populations. It was these things that
prompted taxidermists to experiment with
new methods for producing fish mounts
without the need for the actual fish.
It seems that many marine taxidermy
companies claim to have produced the
first fiberglass fish mount. However, the
first company to successfully introduce and
promote the release mount concept was
King Sailfish Mounts of Fort Lauderdale.
KSM’s collection of anatomically perfect
molds made from carefully selected game
fish specimens have proven to satisfy the
demands of the most discriminating world
class sportsman. Combined with the airbrushing
talent of Marine Artist Raymond
Douglas, KSM has been credited with being
the most influential company in the marine
taxidermy industry today.
Should you be lucky enough to hook that
once-in-a-lifetime catch, or your first trophy
fish (even a 12-pound kingfish), you can
release it alive and still commemorate the
event with a release mount. All you need
to do is provide the species and length (or
weight). Photos which can be used during
the final painting are optional. When measuring,
be careful not to put yourself or the
fish at risk for injury. In some cases it may
be best to estimate. Your custom mount
can be delivered to your home or office in
just a few short weeks, and it will surely be
the envy of friends and family alike, while
the fish lives to fight another day.

King Sailfish Mounts is the official release
mount provider of CCA Florida.

Visit the CCA Click here

Visit King Sailfish Mounts. Com

If you would like to leave a comment Please click comment the bottom of each post. If you would like to contribute to our blog by having a post of your own please e mail kingsailfish@gmail.com

Fish Mounts The Industry Leader

noreply@blogger.com (king) — Fri, 30 Oct 2009 14:36:00 +0000

King Sailfish Mounts has grown to be an industry leader and has been credited for being the most influential producer of Release Mounts in the Taxidermy Industry.

In the early 1990's, King Sailfish Mounts introduced and promoted the Release Mount Concept for Atlantic Sailfish. The Billfish Foundation (http://www.billfish.org/), The International Game Fish Association (http://www.igfa.org/) and Others assisted KSM in creating an awareness among conservation-minded trophy-seeking anglers. And the Release Mount concept quickly gained momentum as an alternative to traditional sailfish taxidermy. Since that time, sailfish populations have rebounded

(.....view all Atlantic Sailfish Mounts)
(....view all Pacific Sailfish Mounts)

King Sailfish Mounts is a TBF Partner, and a current Co-Sponsor of The Billfish Foundation Tag & Release Program. Data generated as a result is used by scientists and lawmakers to propose legislation designed to help manage and conserve billfish and other pelagic species, and also to quantify the importance of recreational fishing to the tourism industry and to local economies. Click here or more info on the TBF Tag and Release Program.
.......click here to view all Sailfish Mounts

CLICK ON RELEASE MOUNTS FOR ADDITIONAL INFO
King Sailfish Mounts.com

PHONE: 954/784-8377 or 1-800/809-0009
EMAIL: kingsails@aol.com

KING SAILFISH MOUNTS IS THE WORLD'S LEADING PRODUCER OF SAILFISH RELEASE MOUNTS.

If you would like to leave a comment Please click comment the bottom of each post. If you would like to contribute to our blog by having a post of your own please e mail kingsailfish@gmail.com

Raymond Douglas, Owner King Sailfish Mounts

noreply@blogger.com (king) — Thu, 11 Jun 2009 14:48:00 +0000

Raymond Douglas,
Marine Artist/Owner King Sailfish Mounts
10 Question Interview
By Florida Fishing Weekly

Marine Artist Raymond Douglas is the founder and owner of King Sailfish Mounts, of Fort Lauderdale. Douglas, who loves to fish, got into the business of producing replica fish mounts as a commitment to preserving memories, while at the same time promoting conservation of the resources.

Douglas believes the ability to retain a catch and reminisce about it forever while still releasing the fish is the perfect way to pay tribute to a memorable day of fishing. While some taxidermists still produce skin mounts, King Sailfish Mounts specializes in producing a fiberglass replica of the fish, which is why Douglas keeps hundreds of molds in varying sizes of most gamefish species.
All Douglas needs is a length and girth measurement and a few photos of the fish to match the colorations that remain in the angler’s memory, and he can produce a replica that will let the fish live on to fight another day, while producing a replica that will allow the angler to rekindle the catch for years to come.
We caught up with Douglas, with his wife Lisa and daughters Coral and Starr, after a recent Cay Club event and had the following conversation:

FFW: How did you ever get involved in the taxidermy business?

Douglas:You mean to say the fish mounting business. I don’t think the term taxidermy describes what we do. Taxidermy involves the use of real fish skins, whereas we make replicas of trophy gamefish using only man-made materials. We call our product a “Release Mount”. I suppose that I was attracted to this industry because I always loved fishing and felt that this would be a good way to help encourage marine conservation. Also, I had a bad experience having my first fish mounted as a young teenager and, therefore, often wondered about the potential for opportunity in this business.

FFW: What was difficult about having your first fish mounted?

Douglas: My parents and I were uncomfortable with the experience from beginning to end. In a way, we were tricked into having the fish mounted. The captain and mate kept saying that it was a very special fish. They brought it on board and killed it, and then insisted that we get it mounted. The taxidermy company eventually charged a lot more money than we had expected. We were told that the fish had to be crated and shipped, and that we could not pick it up at the factory. Imagine that! The most memorable thing for me was, when I would call to find out when it would be ready, the person on the phone was so rude. Later, I was embarrassed to learn that an 8-pound kingfish was not special in any way at all.

FFW: You've had to have heard some stories, so how do captains pressure customers into killing fish for mounts?

Douglas: These days most captains and their crew act in a professional manner and lead their customers to rewarding, once-in-a-lifetime catches. Unfortunately, there are a few charter operations that continue to practice deceptive sales techniques in order to earn inflated commissions offered by certain taxidermy companies. The conspiracy often involves the killing of the trophy fish to cause the customer to feel obligated to buying a mount, while concealing the fact that the actual fish is not needed or used in the mounting process. Clearly defined cost information is often unavailable until after the non-refundable deposit is paid, preventing the angler from making an informed buying decision. Reportedly, one charter operation would keep a frozen sailfish on board, and when the angler was distracted, the hooked fish would be placed into the water while trolling. As the line came tight, the angler would think he had hooked the fish of a lifetime--giving the crew the opportunity to solicit a mount order and earn an easy commission.

FFW: What music is currently playing in your car?

Douglas: Todd Rundgren from the early 70's. Mainly from the Something/Anything days of 1973 to Initiation of 1975. I also have collected dozens of sealed copies of A Wizard, A True Star and TODD -- not to mention various bootlegs and at least 25 audience tapes of various concerts from the WMMR Philadelphia broadcast in '71 to Central Park in 1976. I could always relate to "Dumb Larry from Homeroom 9". Growing up near Detroit, we often went to concerts at Pine Knob, Cobo Hall, Ford Theater and Royal Oak Music Theater. My favorite radio station was WABX in Detroit, which was an underground station in the early days of FM. When I occasionally get tired of Todd, I listen to The Grateful Dead, The Velvet Underground, Blind Faith, James Gang, Traffic, Quicksilver --Country Joe and the Fish is cool, Dylan is not too bad at times. I liked older tunes from Neil Young for a while. The first record I ever purchased was by Iron Butterfly and the most recent was by The 13th Floor Elevators.

FFW: What is the worst part about the business?

Douglas: The worst part of this business is that it creates an addictive obsession for perfection, which always remains just out of reach. Sometimes, when you feel you have finally arrived, you look again only to find it still just off in the distance.

FFW: What us the most rewarding part of your work?

Douglas:Traveling to a remote destination to make a new fish mold is the most challenging thing for me, and to successfully accomplish the task is the biggest reward. In most cases the work is done in an unfamiliar place with unfamiliar faces--not to mention a variety of other uncertainties including the availability of required materials, etc. Added to the challenge sometimes is the pressure of working with not just an ordinary fish but a potential world record. And, usually there is a large financial investment by the sponsors. One slight error in judgment can mean total disaster with no chance to recover.

FFW: How did you ever get involved in the taxidermy business?

Douglas:You mean to say the fish mounting business. I don’t think the term taxidermy describes what we do. Taxidermy involves the use of real fish skins, whereas we make replicas of trophy gamefish using only man-made materials. We call our product a “Release Mount”. I suppose that I was attracted to this industry because I always loved fishing and felt that this would be a good way to help encourage marine conservation. Also, I had a bad experience having my first fish mounted as a young teenager and, therefore, often wondered about the potential for opportunity in this business.

FFW: What was difficult about having your first fish mounted?

Douglas: My parents and I were uncomfortable with the experience from beginning to end. In a way, we were tricked into having the fish mounted. The captain and mate kept saying that it was a very special fish. They brought it on board and killed it, and then insisted that we get it mounted. The taxidermy company eventually charged a lot more money than we had expected. We were told that the fish had to be crated and shipped, and that we could not pick it up at the factory. Imagine that! The most memorable thing for me was, when I would call to find out when it would be ready, the person on the phone was so rude. Later, I was embarrassed to learn that an 8-pound kingfish was not special in any way at all.

FFW: You've had to have heard some stories, so how do captains pressure customers into killing fish for mounts?

Douglas: These days most captains and their crew act in a professional manner and lead their customers to rewarding, once-in-a-lifetime catches. Unfortunately, there are a few charter operations that continue to practice deceptive sales techniques in order to earn inflated commissions offered by certain taxidermy companies. The conspiracy often involves the killing of the trophy fish to cause the customer to feel obligated to buying a mount, while concealing the fact that the actual fish is not needed or used in the mounting process. Clearly defined cost information is often unavailable until after the non-refundable deposit is paid, preventing the angler from making an informed buying decision. Reportedly, one charter operation would keep a frozen sailfish on board, and when the angler was distracted, the hooked fish would be placed into the water while trolling. As the line came tight, the angler would think he had hooked the fish of a lifetime--giving the crew the opportunity to solicit a mount order and earn an easy commission.

FFW: What music is currently playing in your car?

Douglas: Todd Rundgren from the early 70's. Mainly from the Something/Anything days of 1973 to Initiation of 1975. I also have collected dozens of sealed copies of A Wizard, A True Star and TODD -- not to mention various bootlegs and at least 25 audience tapes of various concerts from the WMMR Philadelphia broadcast in '71 to Central Park in 1976. I could always relate to "Dumb Larry from Homeroom 9". Growing up near Detroit, we often went to concerts at Pine Knob, Cobo Hall, Ford Theater and Royal Oak Music Theater. My favorite radio station was WABX in Detroit, which was an underground station in the early days of FM. When I occasionally get tired of Todd, I listen to The Grateful Dead, The Velvet Underground, Blind Faith, James Gang, Traffic, Quicksilver --Country Joe and the Fish is cool, Dylan is not too bad at times. I liked older tunes from Neil Young for a while. The first record I ever purchased was by Iron Butterfly and the most recent was by The 13th Floor Elevators.

FFW: What is the worst part about the business?

Douglas: The worst part of this business is that it creates an addictive obsession for perfection, which always remains just out of reach. Sometimes, when you feel you have finally arrived, you look again only to find it still just off in the distance.

FFW: What us the most rewarding part of your work?

Douglas:Traveling to a remote destination to make a new fish mold is the most challenging thing for me, and to successfully accomplish the task is the biggest reward. In most cases the work is done in an unfamiliar place with unfamiliar faces--not to mention a variety of other uncertainties including the availability of required materials, etc. Added to the challenge sometimes is the pressure of working with not just an ordinary fish but a potential world record. And, usually there is a large financial investment by the sponsors. One slight error in judgment can mean total disaster with no chance to recover.

FFW: How did the concept of marine conservation become so important to you?

Douglas: I grew up in Michigan, living near a small crystal clear deep-water lake that had been carved out by glaciers after the last Ice Age. It was a beautiful pristine balanced environment, and the lake held great populations of northern pike and jumbo perch. I fished a lot as a teenager. It was unbelievable. Over the years, as our community developed and the population increased, the ecosystem became disrupted -- the lake polluted and nearly all the fish were completely wiped out. That was a part of my life. Then, in my early 20’s I moved to Ft. Lauderdale and witnessed on a daily basis the hanging of dead sailfish at the docks of the local charter fleets, and felt a similar lack of respect for things in nature.

FFW: Sounds like you are a bit of a “tree hugger” there, Mr. Douglas.

Douglas: Not at all. I have fish in my freezer at most times. Only, I never could stomach the idea of killing something just to take a picture or to promote an afternoon or next day fishing charter. Thankfully nowadays, the killing of billfish and other species to have a mount produced is a thing of the past.

FFW: So, King Sailfish Mounts helps to encourage marine conservation?

Douglas: Yes, in fact, I would assert that we have done more than any other company in our industry to encourage the release of trophy fish for mounting purposes, and we hope to continue along this same path in the future. For example, we have just made arrangements with The International Game Fish Association and The Billfish Foundation for the promotion of the release mount concept and King Sailfish Mounts will in turn donate funds to each organization to be used for conservation, education and research.

FFW: What is your favorite fish to paint and to catch?

Douglas: Tarpon, hands down on both accounts. I like camping out in the backcountry, stalking in shallow water, using a fly or a lure on light line. The alligators and birds add to the experience.

King Sailfish Mounts proudly offers an array of mounted fish, producing both freshwater and saltwater fish mounts. Also called release mounts, KSM's fiberglass fish replicas provide sportsmen with the absolute highest level of quality and value, and symbolize an age of environmental awareness. Our artists capture the rich beauty.....(for more, click on "About Us". )Please visit King Sailfish Mounts

If you would like to leave a comment Please click comment the bottom of each post. If you would like to contribute to our blog by having a post of your own please e mail kingsailfish@gmail.com

No Need To Kill For A Fish Mount

noreply@blogger.com (king) — Wed, 29 Apr 2009 14:49:00 +0000

This captain was obviously not "UP" on the latest information. It is no longer necessary for a trophy fish to be taken from the ocean for mounting purposes. There is no longer any need for the actual fish......even the mount's teeth can be created from molds using dental acrylics.

The Marine Taxidermy Industry once relied almost exclusively on freshly caught fish for producing trophy mounts. And the charter fleet boated thousands of gamefish every year. The increasing number of fish being taken out of the water resulted in a situation where sailfish and other prized species were becoming more and more difficult to catch.

However, due to an increased awareness brought about by The Billfish Foundation, The International Game Fish Association, and others, the majority of all trophy game fish are now being released alive for mounting purposes. Release mounts produced from composite materials are now the choice of both novice and master anglers alike. The release mount segment is the fastest growing part of the marine taxidermy industry. And Fort Lauderdale is once again considered by many to be the Sailfishing Capital of the US.

Raymond Douglas
Owner -King Sailfish Mounts

King Sailfish Mounts proudly offers an array of mounted fish, producing both freshwater and saltwater fish mounts. Also called release mounts, KSM's fiberglass fish replicas provide sportsmen with the absolute highest level of quality and value, and symbolize an age of environmental awareness. Our artists capture the rich beauty.....(for more, click on "About Us". )
Please visit King Sailfish Mounts

If you would like to leave a comment Please click comment at the bottom of each post. If you would like to contribute to our blog by having a post of your own please e mail kingsailfish@gmail.com

King Sailfish Mounts and Stu Apte to Assist in Tarpon Tagging Program..

noreply@blogger.com (king) — Wed, 18 Mar 2009 13:01:00 +0000

The Bonefish and Tarpon Research Conservation organization of the University of Miami Rosenstiel School of Marine and Atmospheric Science will be inserting tarpon satellite tags this season in Whitewater Bay, Everglades National Park. With the help of world recognized angler Stu Apte, and King Sailfish's Raymond Douglas, pop-up tags will be placed in a limited number of qualified tarpon in order to gain scientific knowledge regarding fishery dynamics, stock spatial distribution, spawning migrations and movements between fishing areas.

Pop-up Archival Transmitter (PAT) tags record information over a period of time and are then scheduled to pop-off, allowing researchers to recover the tag and record the data gathered. The resulting information can then be used by scientists and lawmakers to study and help protect this valuable marine resource.

The first tag was successfully inserted on March 13 by Mike Larkin and Raymond Douglas. The fish's size and geographical location was recorded prior to a successful release. For more information on how you can become involved, visit http://www.bonefishresearch.com/tarpon.htm

King Sailfish Mounts proudly offers an array of mounted fish, producing both freshwater and saltwater fish mounts. Also called release mounts, KSM's fiberglass fish replicas provide sportsmen with the absolute highest level of quality and value, and symbolize an age of environmental awareness. Our artists capture the rich beauty.....(for more, click on "About Us". )

Please visit King Sailfish Mounts

If you would like to leave a comment Please click comment the bottom of each post. If you would like to contribute to our blog by having a post of your own please e mail kingsailfish@gmail.com

What People Are Saying About King Sailfish Mounts

noreply@blogger.com (king) — Mon, 16 Feb 2009 14:19:00 +0000

Today I would like to bring you into a forum discussion titled "king sailfish fish mounts".

This is a very popular fishing forum named StripersOnline SurfTalk Forums

king sailfish fish mounts
Do any of you guys have mounts from this place and if so, what do you think? Also, while I know that the actual caught fish isn't involved in these mounts (presumably you either released the fish or ate it), do they work off pictures and actual measurements of the fish you caught or do you just get a 'generic' version of the species in question?

Yes I have used them. They did a 30lb Chinnouk Salmon (sp)for me a couple of years ago. I came out amazing. This fish was caught in NY and as such has a bronze coloration to it. The chinnouks (sp)they usually mount are on the silver side.This presented a challange for them. They put their best painter on it who happens t be the owner. Took alittle longer but I it. I will now use them exclusively. You have to take several good pics from several angles along with length,girth, wt and send them this info. I also point out any distinguishing marks the fish may have......good luck lets see some pics when you get it back. What are you mounting?

Actually, I don't have anything currently. But I'm heading down to FL in July and depending on what I catch, I might want something as a keepsake. Anyway, I've always said that the next nice striper, big blue or albie on the fly, I would have it mounted - but inevitably, I almost always release these fish unless it can't swim away...and even then, I usually find someone to give the fish to. So this might be a nice alternative...as well as buy me some additional time to decide if I'd want a mount without having to kill the fish.Basically I asked the question because I saw an add for them this morning and it piqued my interest. I'm glad to hear your salmon came out the way you liked.

Thanks

Here is a mount of a 140 tarpon from king sailfish - great job, unbelievable - just submitted a pic and estimate of size. let me know if you want more

That's a great piece of work !

thanks, but it was even more fun catching

End of discussion

K.S.M. Fish Mounts are lightweight and easy to install. Production time is only a few short weeks. Send us your photos (optional) and soon enjoy the pleasure of owning a beautiful custom fish mount from King Sailfish Mounts, Fort Lauderdale's leading producer of mounted fish replicas.
......view all Sailfish Mounts
......view all Dolphin Mounts
......view all Tarpon Mounts
......view all Rainbow Trout

Please visit Kingsailfishmounts.com

PHONE: 1 (888) SAILFISH
EMAIL YOUR PHOTOS TO: kingsails@aol.com

If you would like to leave a comment Please click comment the bottom of each post. If you would like to contribute to our blog by having a post of your own please e mail kingsails@aol.com

About Release Mounts

noreply@blogger.com (king) — Tue, 30 Dec 2008 16:25:00 +0000

What you should know before you go.....

Sportfishermen constantly dream of that Once-In-A-Lifetime Catch. Often times dreams do come true. If you were to catch the big one.....what would you do? Have ever thought about having a trophy fish mounted? Here is some information that might be helpful to you.

Until recently, actual fish parts were commonly used in the mounting of trophy gamefish. The skin, fins and jaws would typically be salted for transport to the nearest taxidermist, who would then incorporate those parts into what was referred to as a "Skin Mount". The skin, after being de-greased, would be reformed into its original shape by stuffing the inside with paper, burlap or some other material. One common misconception was that the skin could be restored to it's original color. Rather, an artist would paint directly over the dried skin to give the mount its colorful appearance.

Skin mounts were gradually phased out during the 1970's and 80's and replaced with Composite mounts, produced from molds. This is now the only type of mount generally offered by the Marine Taxidermy Industry. Composite mounts, also called Release Mounts, offer many advantages. Among those include anatomical perfection, reduced cost and fast production time. Release Mounts have proven to be a far superior product. However, the biggest advantage is the angler's ability to release his or her trophy fish alive, yet still have it "mounted".
Release Mounts are available from a variety of producers. Specific information about each can be found online

To order a mount of your trophy fish, you will need to provide information including the species and size. Size can be quantified by length and/or weight. Your captain can assist in determining this information. A photograph, which is optional, can be helpful during the final painting. This allows the artist to reproduce the specific colors and markings of your fish. Or, you can simply advise the geographic location of where the fish was caught.

Release Mounts are lightweight, easy to install and can last for a lifetime.
Good fishing, and please do your part to conserve our marine resources. By doing so, we all will have a better chance to catch more fish.

Raymond Douglas

To visit our homepage or to bookmark this site, click here.

Phone: 954/784-8377
Email: kingsails@aol.com
If you would like to leave a comment Please click here or click comment the bottom of each post. If you would like to contribute to our blog by having a post of your own please e mail kingsailfish@gmail.com

King Sailfish Mounts Launches A New Website

noreply@blogger.com (king) — Tue, 02 Dec 2008 21:37:00 +0000

King Sailfish Mounts Is Proud To Announce The Launching Of Our New Website.

Please stop By And Have A Look!

On our new website you will find the most comprehensive list of saltwater and freshwater fish mounts on the world wide web.

You will also find the best Tournament Trophies and Baitfish Mounts to help make your mounted fish exhibit even more exciting! Liven up the scene with your choice of decorative baitfish. Choose from Flying Fish, Ballyhoo, Mullet, Pinfish and.....for more click here

For the Holiday Season, we are offering huge savings on some of our most popular fish mounts. Click here for more information....

Also:

Check out our Scratch & Dent section for additional low-priced items!!!

Please Visit:
King Sailfish Mounts.com

If you would like to leave a comment Please click comment the bottom of each post. If you would like to contribute to our blog by having a post of your own please e mail kingsailfish@gmail.com

"Conservationist of the Year" Raymond Douglas

noreply@blogger.com (king) — Tue, 04 Nov 2008 12:27:00 +0000

"Marine Artist Raymond Douglas of King Sailfish Mounts was recently named "Conservationist of the Year" by the Coastal Conservation Association, Palm Beach Chapter. Douglas and KSM have been credited for their contribution toward marine conservation by their promotion of the Release Mount concept. When KSM first began in the early 1990's, the taxidermy industry relied heavily on the killing of gamefish for mounting purposes. KSM pioneered the idea of replica fish mounts, and has been very influential in the marine taxidermy business. These days nearly all fish are released alive for mounting purposes. "

If you would like to leave a comment Please click here or click comment the bottom of each post. If you would like to contribute to our blog by having a post of your own please e mail kingsailfish@gmail.com

About Us - An overview of King Sailfish Mounts, Inc.

noreply@blogger.com (king) — Sun, 21 Sep 2008 19:01:00 +0000

Release Fish Mounts and Overview of King Sailfish Mounts, Inc.

King Sailfish Mounts was formed in the early 1990’s by Marine Artist Raymond Douglas, due to concern over populations of Atlantic sailfish in Florida offshore waters.

For decades, sailfish had been customarily brought back to the dock for photographs and mounting. As a result, sailfish were becoming increasingly difficult to catch in those days. In the 1960’s, new methods had been perfected for the mounting of gamefish that did not require any actual part of the fish. However, even many years later, the large taxidermy companies were still reluctant to implement those techniques, during which time sailfish continued to be harvested needlessly by the local charter fleet along with other species of marine gamefish.

KSM’s mission was to bring about a change. Organizations such as The Billfish Foundation and The International Game Fish Association helped to create an awareness which was warmly embraced by conservation-minded anglers. Within a short time, the Release Mount concept quickly gained momentum. KSM artists became overwhelmed, producing not only sailfish—but mounts of all species of gamefish from around the world.

Family owned and operated since inception, KSM has grown to be the industry’s leader in Marine Conservation and remains one of the most influential producers of release mounts in the world; continuing to hand craft finely detailed mounts…..by hand…..one-at-a-time, and now offering a wide selection of both fresh and saltwater mounts.

King Sailfish Mounts is a co-sponsor of The Billfish Foundation Tag & Release Program (www.billfish.org). Data generated as a result is used by scientists and lawmakers to propose legislation designed to help manage and conserve billfish and other pelagic species, and also to quantify the importance of recreational fishing to the tourism industry and to local economies.

For more information, log on to the KSM website at http://www.kingsailfishmounts.com/.
If you would like to leave a comment Please click here or click comment the bottom of each post. If you would like to contribute to our blog by having a post of your own please e mail kingsailfish@gmail.com

I.G.F.A. Lifetime Achievement Awards

noreply@blogger.com (king) — Thu, 19 Jun 2008 17:47:00 +0000

Lifetime Achievement Awards; top anglers to be honoredGuides/educators Captain Jay Wright Jr., Hollywood, Fla., USA, and Jean-Francois Helias, also an IGFA Representative from Bangkok, Thailand will be presented with IGFA Lifetime Achievement Awards.

Each man will receive a David Wirth limited edition bronze “Lava” Hawaiian circle hook sculpture.

Also to be honored will be Ms. Jodie L. Johnson, Peterborough, N.H. USA, as the Overall Female Angler of the year recording the most records, 28 all on fly.

In addition Dr. Martin Arostegui Coral Gables, Fla., USA, will receive the Overall Male Angler of the year with 22 records, 18 of them on fly. The retired physician was the first angler to reach the 200 world records plateau two years ago.

All first place winners will receive King Sailfish Mounts.

Cocktails begin at 6:00 p.m. with dinner and awards program at 7:30 p.m.

Tickets for the WRAA are $50.00 and include a barbecue dinner.For more information or to reserve a ticket, contact Lesley Arico at 954-924-4222 or HYPERLINK "mailto:pgaube@igfa.org" larico@igfa.org .

If you would like to leave a comment Please click here or click comment the bottom of each post. If you would like to contribute to our blog by having a post of your own please e mail kingsailfish@gmail.com

King Sailfish Mounts, The Presidential Choice !

noreply@blogger.com (king) — Fri, 02 May 2008 16:49:00 +0000

Bush tarpon tips the scales at 145 lbs.

"To hang in his Presidential Library at Texas A&M University".

Ex President George Bush , fishing with Islamorada guide George Wood and former Olympic skier Andy Mill caught and released a 145 pound tarpon last weekend. "When released and he swam away, I had great respect for the big fish", Bush wrote, adding that he intends to hang the mount in his Presidential Library at Texas A&M University. We are very honored and proud to have been selected to produce this trophy for the Ex President and congratulate him on his extraordinary catch.

King Sailfish Mounts Sponsors 2008 World Championship Billfish Release Tournament

noreply@blogger.com (king) — Wed, 23 Apr 2008 12:21:00 +0000

April 2008 Update

With just a little over a month to go the interest in the record setting WCBRT event in Cabo San Lucas Mexico has been outstanding! Cabo is considered the Striped Marlin Capital of the World by knowledgeable blue water anglers worldwide. The phenomenal catch rates in the most recent WCBRT events have further peaked the interest from anglers’ world wide to come to Cabo and participate in the WCBRT this May 2008. This tournament was designed by fisherman to be a tournament "For Fishermen by Fishermen".

The WCBRT

On May 17 – 21, 2008 is a three-day fishing tournament with an additional one-day Observer fishing tournament on May 21st. This is a 100% catch-and-release, 100% circle hook with live and dead bait tournament. The WCBT is a 2009 IGFA Qualifying event with, so far to date, eleven International countries participating. This challenging and prestigious event, allows teams to compete against many of the top anglers from all over the world. With the WCBRT dates quickly approaching, the following update will assist you in your tournament preparations. If you need additional information, please do not hesitate to get in contact with the WCBRT office at www.wcbrt.com or at the emails or phone numbers listed in this update sheet.

If you require tackle, fishing licenses or need a boat charter please contact the following - Minerva’s Baja Tackle: 011 52 624 1431282 / Email: Minerva@minervas.com Pisces Sportfishing: 011 52 624 1431288 / Email: pisces@piscessportfishing.com

Please keep our great sponsors and partners in mind when you’re making your next purchases: Minerva’s Baja Tackle, Melton’s International Tackle, King Sailfish Mounts, Pisces Sportfishing, Tesoro Hotel, No Worries Bar and Grill, Eagle Claw, Berkley, Pacific Coast Sportfishing, Roffs, Marlin World, Pelagic, QuickRig, The Billfish Foundation, IGFA, Ashwill Associates Commercial Real Estate, Finnseeker Sportfishing, Marlinnut, Los Ninos del Capitain Children’s Charity and Cabo Villas Beach Resorts.

Read the full story (here)

If you would like to leave a comment Please click comment the bottom of each post. If you would like to contribute to our blog by having a post of your own please e mail kingsailfish@gmail.com

Another Happy Client For King Sailfish Mounts

noreply@blogger.com (king) — Mon, 14 Apr 2008 12:14:00 +0000

Dear Folks:

I received my Largemouth Bass mount by Fed Ex shipping yesterday evening.
Opened it this morning. OUTSTANDING MOUNT.
Must admit that your mount looks better than the original fish.
When I caught the bass it had just came off the beds; it was long, but skinny and scrawny as a rail.
Your mount has filled him out and he is a trophy anyone would be proud to have handing on their wall.
Beautiful Job.

Thanks,
George Sawyer, Jr.

If you would like to leave a comment Please click here or click comment the bottom of each post. If you would like to contribute to our blog by having a post of your own please e mail kingsailfish@gmail.com

http://www.kingsailfish.com/

The Making of a Release Fish Mount

noreply@blogger.com (king) — Wed, 09 Apr 2008 14:06:00 +0000

Release Mounts- A Good Impression

Everyone dreams of catching that once-in-a-lifetime fish--perhaps a world record blue marlin, 100-pound tarpon or even a first sailfish. Often times, it takes a lot of preparation: rigging the proper baits, choosing the best equipment and knowing how to be in the right place at the right time. But very few anglers prepare in advance for having their trophy fish mounted.

Unlike in the past, when one would take their fish to a taxidermist to have it stuffed, mounts are now produced without using any part of the original fish. This kind of mount is known as a "release mount". So, you can now watch your fish swim off, and still get a mount to represent your actual catch. Here's what you need to know about release mounts, and how to be prepared when you catch your trophy fish.

Release mounts are constructed using molds. For selection of the most appropriate mold, you will need to provide specific information such as the length or weight of your fish. If you don't have a tape measure on board, carefully lay the fish flat on the gunnel or deck and mark the distance from the tip of the mouth (or bill in the case of a billfish) to the tip of the tail before returning it safely to the water. Molds are selected by the overall, or total length. The mold selection can also be made, based on the actual weight of the fish.

Coloration is based on the ability of the artist to capture the natural and vivid colors of the particular species, using a generous combination of shimmers, pearls and transparent lacquers. Many marine artists maintain and refer to an extensive collection of reference photos, which are often categorized not only by species but also by geographical location. Since, for example, tarpon caught oceanside in the Keys can differ greatly from those caught in Flamingo, it is important to report where your fish was caught. Many artists will accept a photo of your fish, to match not only the coloration, but also the markings, such as the spots on a redfish.

Release mounts are made to last indefinitely. Unlike the old method of producing skin mounts, release mounts will not turn yellow, attract insects, or develop foul odors. They come with a built-in balanced mounting device, and are as easy to hang as a picture. Should you decide to locate your mount outside in direct sunlight, it would be best to request a special outdoor clear coating, to protect the paint against the sun's ultraviolet rays. Sportfishing anglers especially are happy to learn that it usually takes only a few weeks to have one made, as opposed to skin mounts, which use to take almost a year to produce. And, most importantly, you can always remember the thrill of watching your trophy fish swim away unharmed.

To log in your catch with King Sailfish Mounts click here

"Thanks" to King Sailfish Mounts

noreply@blogger.com (king) — Wed, 02 Apr 2008 15:37:00 +0000

The Billfish Foundation's annual tagging & release awards.

I just wanted to extend my "thanks" to King Sailfish Mounts for providing the trophies for The Billfish Foundation's annual tagging & release awards.
I was the recipient of the "Top Swordfish Tagging Angler - Atlantic" award. I was not able to attend the ceremonies in February, and finally picked it up from the TBF office today.
It looks fantastic! It's the first fishing-related trophy I've won, and it will get a proud placement in my home.

Thanks again!-->Bill Buckley

For information on King Sailfish Mounts and to view all of our products please click here

What our customers Say About KSM

noreply@blogger.com (king) — Wed, 26 Mar 2008 19:19:00 +0000

"Hi Nick, We opened the box tonight and everyone was thrilled!!

Maija loved the Tuna and look at the faces of my kids!! Your work is beautiful!

Thanks to you and your staff!!

Have a great Christmas! Kindest regards from all of us.

Ed and family 12/11/07

Sportfishing anglers especially are happy to learn that it usually takes only a few weeks to have one made, as opposed to skin mounts, which use to take almost a year to produce. And, most importantly, you can always remember the thrill of watching your trophy fish swim away unharmed

For more information on King Sailfish Mounts and to view all of our products please click here

Hi Doug,

My wife and I finally extricated the mount form its enclosure with utmost care, and no damage was done. It now occupies a place of honor above my fireplace, and I have to admit tht I smile every single time I look at it. Can't wait until April when I'll be back down at Baja's East Cape chasing these guys again!Thought you might enjoy a picture of your excellent work in it's appropriate setting - the home of a delighted owner.

Regards,Norm

THE PREMIER ALL-RELEASE CIRCLE HOOK MARLIN TOURNAMENT IN CABO

noreply@blogger.com (king) — Sat, 22 Mar 2008 18:42:00 +0000

King Sailfish Mounts is proud to sponsor and support

THE WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP BILLFISH RELEASE TOURNAMENT (WCBRT).

KSM has been a longtime partner, supporter, sponsor of The Billfish Foundation. This partnership and support of the WCBRT's conservation efforts will bring more attention to Cabo San Lucas from other sponsors who support the efforts of all conservation based tournaments in Cabo San Lucas.

What is the WCBRT and how did it come to be?

Our all-release circle hook marlin tournament was founded by a a group of world-class, conservation minded anglers, sportspersons, scientists and entrepreneurs that have established individual reputations of excellence in their chosen professional fields; as well as their area of shared passion - Fishing... They are our committee.

THE PREMIER ALL-RELEASE CIRCLE HOOK MARLIN TOURNAMENT IN CABO

All circle hook. All release. That's the only way to ensure the future of marlin and billfish fisheries as well as to preserve recreational and tournament fishing – not only in Cabo San Lucas and the Baja peninsula but worldwide. Everyday, thousands of marlin, sailfish and other billfish species are killed, most by commercial fishing boats – longliners that have little if any concern over the plight of marlin or other “incidental catch". Billfish and other marine species are caught in miles and miles of J-hook-rigged lines or indiscriminate gill nets. Countless other marlin and billfish are taken as trophies by uninformed anglers – a large number of which compete in billfish tournaments that require a weigh-in to determine the winners. While the negative impact that these anglers and tournaments have upon the fishery is nowhere near that of commercial fishing fleets, they are in a position to inspire change. Change not only in the attitudes and tactics used by sports fishermen, but also within the commercial fishing industry. By refocusing attention on the destructive methods used and how simple changes in techniques can minimize loss we hope to set a new precedent - Responsible, Conservation-Based Tournaments and a renewed effort to enforce Responsible Commercial Fishing.
In the spirit of Competition, Sportsmanship and Conservation, the world's top anglers have united to present one of the richest and most prestigious billfish tournaments ever held. The World Championship Billfish Release Tournament (WCBRT) is set for May 27th through May 31st at the beautiful Cabo Villas Beach Resort in Cabo San Lucas, Mexico.

With the mandatory use of circle hooks in an all-release format, WCBRT offers a new class of billfish tournament. The inaugural event has already attracted anglers from worldwide ports of distinction. The 2007 WCBRT is a qualifying event for the IGFA Offshore Championship and will include a Junior World Championship Division. The mission of the WCBRT is to promote competition, sportsmanship and the advancement of billfish conservation in a manner that will insure healthy billfish populations and exciting fishing experiences today and for future generations.

OUR BILLFISH CONSERVATION GOALS

•Raise awareness of the need for billfish conservation

•Support responsible billfish conservation management and science programs by donating proceeds to The Billfish Foundation.

• Release all hooked fish with as little injury as feasible.

• Advance the use of conservation-friendly equipment and fishing methods.

• Promote good sportsmanship by setting positive examples for young anglers.

• Provide youth angling and educational opportunities related to billfishing.

• To associate with responsible sport fishing entities, event services & related industry businesses.

• Demonstrate that billfish conservation pays.• Support the local Los Ninos del Capitain Childrens Charity.

• The WCBRT is a non profit event.

In Responce To Your Most Frequently Asked Questions

noreply@blogger.com (king) — Thu, 20 Mar 2008 14:36:00 +0000

Due to an overwelming amount of e mail concerning our fish mounts and what we need to produce the ultimate representation of an angler's most notable achievement.

Here are our most Frequently Asked Questions & Answers

Q: How long will it take to produce my mount?

A: Normal lead time is around 4 to 6 weeks. Your order usually can be expedited in a shorter period of time-for example, for a specific date such as a birthday-for an additional fee.

Q: How do I mount my fish on the wall?

A: All fish come with built-in balanced hangers, located on the back of the mount. All that is needed is for you to install a simple hook in your wall, like you would if you were to hang a picture.

Q: How much do mounts weigh?

A: An average 50-inch dolphin mount weighs around 8-pounds. An average 84-inch sailfish weighs around 12-pounds. Much larger fish, such as a 10-foot blue marlin weighs around 25-pounds. Since the fish are hollow cast, they are very lightweight.

Q: Do I need to document my catch with a photo?

A: A photo is not necessary, but as an option, we can use your photo when doing the final painting.

Q: Are mounts available in different sizes?

A: We maintain an inventory of molds in a variety of sizes. In most cases, we can match one of our molds to the size of your catch.

Q: How do I measure my fish?

A: Take a measurement of the total length of the fish, from the tip of the bill to the tip of the tail for a billfish, or, from the tip of the nose to the tip of the tail. Be careful not to injure the fish prior to release. We do not use the lower jaw to fork of tail measurement.

Q: What if I only have the weight?

A: We can estimate the length of the fish according to the weight.

Q: What if I only have a photo?

A: We can usually estimate the length of the fish according to a photo.

Q: If I send my photo, can it be returned?

A: Yes!

Q: What material is the fish made of?

A: Fiberglass-the same materials as used in production of boat hulls.

Q: How are mounts painted?

A: Mounts are airbrushed by hand with transparent lacquer paints.

Q: Can my fish go outside?

A: Generally, the weather will not hurt your fish. For mounting in direct sunlight, you should request a special clear outdoor coating, to protect from the sun's ultraviolet rays.

Q: How are molds made?

A: Molds are constructed from perfect specimens of real fish. Hundreds of mounts can be produced from one mold.

Q: Do you use any real fish parts such as the skin or bill?

A: No. We produce all of our mounts using 100-percent man-made materials. We even produce acrylic teeth from rubber molds made from real teeth.

Q: How do I keep it clean?

A: Simply wipe it off using a wet cloth from time to time as needed.

Q: Can my mount be shipped to me?

A: Yes! Smaller mounts are packed securely in cardboard cartons and are shipped by ground. Larger mounts are packed in wooden crates and are shipped by common carrier. International shipments are also available. Your fish can be shipped to you anywhere.

For any questions or comments not covered in the F.A.Q. please contact us here

Fly Fishing For Pacific Sailfish

noreply@blogger.com (king) — Wed, 12 Mar 2008 11:56:00 +0000

On a recent trip to Costa Rica I had the opportunity to catch my first Pacific Sailfish on Fly. Pacific Sailfish are not only much larger than their Atlantic cousins but to my amazement are extremely aggressive and challenging, especially on fly. In March of 2008, I was treated to an exciting fishing adventure, courtesy of Abraham and Betsy Bullard, owners of Golfito Sailfish Rancho which is located on a remote stretch of Pacific shoreline. I departed from Ft. Lauderdale at 11:30 in the morning and arrived at the lodge just after 5:00 pm. The 2 hour and 40 minute flight went directly into San Jose, the capitol city. I then transferred to a 40 minute domestic flight that landed on a jungle airstrip in the picturesque village of Golfito. A 15 minute boat ride completed the trip to the lodge which is situated in a tropical rainforest at the base of a steep mountain

. Golfito Sailfish Rancho is considered a second home to many notable sportsman, and it was there that I had the pleasure of meeting accomplished angler Flip Pallot for the first time. Had I been there one week earlier I would have had the chance to fish alongside of the legendary Stu Apte. The jungle above is dense and waterfalls cascade down steep cliffs less than 20-feet from the base of the lodge. Howler monkeys roam the forest and share the canopy with toucans and macaws. The accommodations are comfortable and roomy, and each overlook the ocean. Beyond the porch, hummingbirds hover among tropical flowers. Although the lodge is closed briefly for the rainy season, many different species of fish are available to anglers year round, including blue and black marlin, roosterfish, snook, dorado, wahoo, and tuna. Live bait is abundant. I could hardly wait until morning.

The captain and mate were well versed in the art of flyfishing and the bite had been good in recent days. Betsy had prepared a 14 weight outfit, tipped with a custom fly tied by her husband and flyfishing guru Abraham. After a 25-minute run offshore we deployed three teasers--designed to raise sailfish (and marlin) to the surface and draw them in close enough for presentation of the fly. It took less than 20 minutes for the first "lit-up" sail to enter the spread. The captain and mate orchestrated a perfect tease, gradually pulling the hookless lures closer to the boat and bringing the excited sailfish to within casting range. Just as my fly hit the water the last teaser was jerked away, leaving only my fly inches behind the sail's bill. Noticeably unsettled by the situation the sail turned and took the fly frantically. I struck sharply and could feel that the hook had hit something solid. It was at that moment that I realized that one of my biggest dreams was in the process of coming true--my first sail on fly. The sailfish burned out spectacularly on the surface, was brought alongside, revived and released in good condition.

In 2-1/2 days we raised at least 15 sails, missing most of a hot afternoon bite due to a 2-1/2 hour battle with a monster--but that was only part of the story. From time to time we observed more than 40 sails cruising just below the surface, their large dorsal fins fully extended and visible often from a hundred yards away. With the water being so calm, the ocean seemed to resemble a gigantic fish tank. We occasionally took advantage of the opportunity to pitch live baits from the bow using 12-pound spinning gear. We had a ball!

Betsy and Abraham and their staff are not only enthusiastic, kind and sincere, but are extremely knowledgeable and conservation minded and do everything possible to release every fish unharmed. Each fish is billed and the hook is removed prior to release. No hooks are ever intentionally left in the fish. Circle hooks, which lodge in the corner of the mouth to minimize injury, are mandatory. Costa Rican fishing laws and regulations maintain a healthy fishery for the benefit of everyone who enjoys the sport.

Having secretly learned of two recent pending world records on snook, my next trip will definitely be longer so that I can have more time to fish in each of several rivers that empty in to the Golfo Dulce.

This was a trip of a lifetime and one I will never forget.

Raymond Douglas

New Shark Protection Rules Could Affect Fishing Hot Spot

noreply@blogger.com (king) — Tue, 04 Mar 2008 14:46:00 +0000

CAPE CANAVERAL

A change to rules protecting sharks could mean changes to Central Florida tourism.

Charter boat captains have paying close attention to what happens with a new federal marine fisheries study looking at ways to protect nearly 40 shark species along the East Coast.
That could include changes to where people can and can not fish for the big fish.

Currently, charters regularly take tourists to an area off Cape Canaveral known as "The Bite," which was closed for six years, and when reopened, was filled with young sharks.
Experts feared with the Bite open again, that could spell disaster for the new sharks, but charter boat captains said most of their shark fishing was catch and release, so there was no need to shutdown the hot fishing spot.

"It definitely does not need to be closed to the recreational fishermen. Of the 100 sharks that we catch in there, we might keep four or five of them," said Greg Rapp, a charter boat captain.
The Captains News 13 spoke with did say it could be dangerous to open the hot spot for commercial fishing.

The Atlantic States Marine Fisheries Commission was asking for public input on the question.
You can get your opinion heard by calling or e-mailing the

Atlantic States Marine Fisheries Commission, and the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission.

Click here to comment on this story.
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Release Your Fish-and Mount it Too!

noreply@blogger.com (king) — Wed, 27 Feb 2008 14:47:00 +0000

Release Your Fish-and Mount it Too!

By George Poveromo
It's almost impossible to forget my first big dolphin, especially when I sit down to write my monthly column. That's because the colorful beast constantly stares down at me from its home on my office wall, a vivid reminder of our epic battle so many years ago.
On that celebrated day, my cousin and I, adventurous teenagers at the time, had taken the family's 23-foot center console some 20 miles east of North Miami Beach's Haulover Inlet. After reaching blue water we picked up a textbook-perfect weed line and began trolling ballyhoo through the pancake-flat seas.
Nothing happened until mid-morning, when a big bull struck the port flat line. After a spectacular jump, the fish sounded and remained deep for most of the fight. Spurred by thoughts of fame and glory, I applied as much pressure as the 20-pound tackle would take. Thirty minutes later I had the dolphin within gaffing range. My cousin did the honors, but wasn't prepared for the fish's explosive reaction when it felt the steel. I could only watch helplessly as he lost his balance and fell onto the gunwale in what proved to be an unsuccessful attempt to keep the dolphin from wrestling the gaff out of his hands. My cousin eventually recovered from the incident, but the gaff did not. It floated back to the surface, badly bent.
Another 15 minutes passed before I was again able to lead the exhausted dolphin alongside the boat. Armed with a gaff we had borrowed from a nearby boat, my cousin stuck the fish again and swung it into the cockpit. Victory at last! The taking of that 30-pound fish was quite an exciting achievement for a pair of inexperienced teenagers, and I'm reminded of our adventure every time I look at that fish on my office wall.
In addition to rekindling fond memories, recognizing a major angling achievement or simply getting you charged up for your next fishing trip, a mounted fish is a guaranteed attention-grabber. Don't think so? When was the last time you failed to notice a mounted fish on display in a restaurant, marina, tackle shop or friend's home?
Fiberglass Saves Fish These days, having a fish mounted is easier than ever before. Better still, the fish doesn't even have to be killed! Unlike years past, when the entire fish or some parts were used to create a mount, modern fish taxidermy is now progressing towards 100-percent fiberglass reproductions. Benefits include the conservation of fish, followed by the durability and variety offered by pure fiberglass replicas. The conservation aspect may not seem important with fish such as dolphin, striped bass, tuna or other edible species, but fiberglass taxidermy makes a lot of sense when it comes to billfish, sharks, barracuda and other fish not destined for the table.
It should be noted that some taxidermists still offer pure skin mounts and partial reproductions, wherein the tail, fins, teeth and other parts of the original fish are used. The disadvantage of skin mounts, which now make up a very small percentage of marine replicas, is that the skin can crack, exude oil, and become discolored over time. The same can happen to the natural parts used in partial mounts. Besides, in many cases the skin is painted or highlighted to match the original colors and tones.
With the dolphin mentioned above, I chose to have the original tail and fins incorporated into the mount, having filleted the fish and kept the meat. I did the same a few years later with an 82-pound sailfish, which had a unique curved bill that I wanted to incorporate into the mount. Again, I kept the meat and had it smoked. I used a very popular South Florida taxidermist, who did a beautiful job. However, the tails and fins on both mounts have been cracking and peeling for years, despite their being kept indoors since I took possession.
Release Mounts "Our concept is to encourage marine conservation through the promotion of our release mounts," says Raymond Douglas of King Sailfish Mounts in Pompano Beach, Florida [(888) 724-5347]. "We encourage anglers to release their trophy fish alive and to commemorate their catch by displaying a 100-percent fiberglass replica. So, naturally, we do not accept the fresh fish. During the eight years we've been in business, we have encouraged thousands of anglers to release their catches alive."
King Sailfish specializes in a wide variety of marine fish replicas. Their release mounts are extremely realistic and highly detailed. They have an extensive inventory of molds of the most popular species in a wide variety of sizes and poses. "Our molds are made from well-proportioned fish," says Douglas. "The casting is so important. That's where the finer details such as the scales, lateral line, fin spines and other surface details are reproduced. Equally important is the positioning of the eyes and fin angles, and the painting."
To obtain a King release mount, simply measure and release the fish, then call in the information. King Sailfish will then select the replica mold that matches the fish's dimensions from its inventory and ship it off.
"What makes our company different from our larger competitors is our marketing approach," says Douglas. "In order to encourage marine conservation, we do not provide incentive (e.g., commissions) to charter captains, a practice that can lead to abusive selling tactics, often at the expense of the resource. We sell the majority of our mounts directly to the angler. Our prices do not support charter captain commissions, and are therefore somewhat lower than average."
Mounts Made to Order J.T. Reese, which has been around since 1938, has recently changed owners and management. Joe Ribera, shop manager for the popular Fort Lauderdale-based taxidermist, claims the company was originally built on skin mounts, but over the years has shifted its effort to creating predominantly fiberglass replicas. "There's no point in killing fish to mount anymore," says Ribera. "We have about 2,000 skin mounts that were left in inventory when we took over, mostly sailfish and marlin. When we burn those out, that's it. People are coaxed to kill fish and there's no need for that. To promote marine conservation, J.T. Reese now offers a 15-percent price reduction to those customers who release the fish they want mounted."
According to Ribera, J.T. Reese has over 2,500 molds in inventory, which allows them to match the exact size and shape of almost any fish. "If we're not dead on with the length, we're usually within a few inches of it," says Ribera. "We can then split the belly, stretch the tail or use other techniques to make it fit the exact measurements of a customer's fish.
"I believe that one of the most important things in achieving a quality mount is the painting. Take dolphin, for instance. No two fish look alike. So why should we use one paint scheme for every one we mount? I strongly encourage customers to take photos of their fish prior to its release, or right after it has been boated. We'll match any kind of spot patterns, rather than "assembly line" the fish. We had one customer bring in a dolphin with a shark bite on its dorsal. When we made the fiberglass replica, we etched out the shark bite. J.T. Reese was built on adding the personal touch to a mount, and we're keeping to that commitment."
Gray Taxidermy, considered the world's largest marine taxidermist, claims the details within the molds and paint schemes are what make a realistic mount. "We don't use 40-year-old molds," says Ian Hall, vice president of the Pompano Beach, Florida-based company. "As we learn new tricks of the trade, we upgrade our molds in order to maintain the details, such as scales, muscles and lateral lines. Once the details in a mold start to fade, we'll upgrade the mold. Colors are just as important. Our artists have been aware of this for many years, yet we're always tweaking and trying to make our finishes look even better. We've been playing with kingfish lately. That's the hardest fish to make look alive, but we're right there."
Accordingly to Hall, Gray has been in business for 36 years, and last year the company produced over 12,000 fish mounts. He claims that complete fiberglass reproductions comprise some ten percent of its business, although that number is "really building." "A lot of people still don't know about [all-fiberglass mounts]," says Hall. "The more they're educated, the larger that percentage will increase." Partial reproductions, wherein the original fins, tails and other body parts are used in conjunction with a fiberglass replica, make up 89 percent of the business, while the old-fashioned skin mounts are a mere one percent.
Phone-In Fish Mounting a fish has never been easier from an angler's standpoint. If you hook and fight a trophy fish to the boat and decide to have it mounted, take its measurements and a few photographs, then release it. A few years ago I caught and released a big snook with the intention of having it mounted. Once the fish was led alongside the boat, we weighed it on a scale and carefully laid it on a wet gunwale. Using a pencil, I marked where the tip of its tail and lower jaw rested, then released the fish. When we returned home, I used a measuring tape to determine the exact length and then called the taxidermist to order a fiberglass replica of that 43-inch, 30-pound snook -- facing left. It's a beauty!
Billfish, sharks and other sizable pelagics are more challenging. Once again, you can lead them along side the boat and mark off their approximate measurements, or use a measuring tape if they're docile. You may not be 100-percent on the money, but you'll get very close. And what's an inch or two when you can release the fish?
Thanks to modern fish-mounting, techniques anglers fortunate enough to hook, beat and release a trophy fish can now preserve a special memory or fishing feat with a reproduction mount. It's the perfect situation, one in which and everyone comes out a winner. Including the fish.
FOR MORE INFORMATION ON RELEASE MOUNTS:
KING SAILFISH MOUNTS - http://kingsailfishmounts.com/
(888) 724-5347

Campaign for Game Fish Conservation – Update.

noreply@blogger.com (king) — Mon, 25 Feb 2008 16:06:00 +0000

A new win:win partnership between IGFA and King Release Mounts (KRM) in Pompano Beach, Florida, means IGFA’s Campaign for Game Fish Conservation will receive 5 percent of the profit from every KRM release mount sold through IGFA certified captains or weigh stations and discount-program partners. “Not only do IGFA partners get rewarded” by the program, says IGFA Development Director Eric Combast, “this gift from KRM’s Ray Douglas ensures future funds specifically designated for conservation and education initiatives.” The initiative will help encourage anglers to release trophy fish while educating them about release mounts. For more information on the program, visit http://www.igfa.org/ or call Combast at 954-924-4325; for information on release mounts, visit http://www.kingsailfishmounts.com/

IGFA has two new reasons to celebrate. A partnership with Florida Fishing Weekly and a partnership with King Release Mounts (KRM) offer great benefits to further the conservation and education efforts of IGFA...click here for more.