I've always wanted to have a big ole 10lb bass on the wall. That is if I ever get lucky enough to catch one. But if I do get so lucky I've started thinking what a waste it would be to kill such a resource.
I started thinking that instead maybe just taking some good reference photos, getting some good measurements an letting her go.
Then I could get a replica of the fish I caught. My question is has any of yall ever got a replica? Where you satisfied with how it looked?How much do they cost?

I will get a replica as well. I'm guessing in the $350 range.

I just fillet them and eat them. I'm a savage.

Guess a bit higher...last I checked a custom replica to match a fish was 25$ an inch so a 20" fish would be 500$. Traditional mounts were still cheaper than the replicas at the time but it has been about 3 years since I last looked.

Geez Shaun, what are you, some kinda tree hugger?

I always try and remember to bring a cloth tape measure, but I always then forget. I've got a good board for length, but getting the right number on the girth is what's really necessary to get a good replica of the fish you caught. Lots of pics from different angles is a good idea too.

Just remember, at Fork if it's under 24, it ain't a keeper. I've heard stories of tickets being written on 10 pound fish that were 23 7/8. They do exist there!

You get what you pay for with replicas. You can get one done for cheaper than $500 though. But if someone quotes you a real low price, be skeptical.

I will do it for you $100 bucks. Any sized fish.

Just take a look at this high res photo of an example of some of my finest work:

Thanks for the great input. Are then other reasons to get a replica over doing a conventional mount?

http://www.lakeforktaxidermy.com/

Here you go Shaun. While your out there you can place your order. Stop my Tiffany's restaurant and check out some of their work while your having lunch.

I bet you can find someone who has a mold similar to the catch that will save you some money.

It is a little more expensive, but I think its worth it. I have 3 replicas and they all look great. You do get what you pay for. Skin mounts dont seem to hold up as well over time. Like you said get lots of pics and good measurements.

It will hold up better over time.

I have a skin mount, it is old but the fins have not held up well over time.

I'll 2nd Lake Fork Taxidermy. they did my dad's fish and it turned out very nice.