fiberglass

Coho Salmon Reproduction

August 16, 2026 in reference cast, Taxidermy, fish reproduction

A fiberglass reconstruction of a small Coho Salmon, otherwise known as a jack (a male fish under 20 inches), from a ridged two-piece mold. I started this project in June of 2025. Previously, I have only been able to accomplish making half molds and reference casts with varying degrees of success. This is my first successful replica made by molding and casting two separate halves of a fish and joining them together using gel-coat resin and fiberglass. A multi-disciplinary project that truly incorporated everything I know about molding, casting, sculpting, color, painting and a lifetime of observing fish.

Attempt at a Full Body Fish Cast

July 17, 2025 in Fish Mounts, molding and casting, Process, reference cast, Taxidermy

My first attempt at a two sided, full body cast of a chinook salmon jack. The molding went well, but it completely fell apart during the casting process. For whatever reason the two halves did not bond. I am not sure if it was due to the sloppy shelf or inadequate curing time. However, the mouth plug and fins did come out well, and I consider that a small success.