Pro Mount School of Taxidermy
Pro Mount School of Taxidermy
Programs
01.
Game Head/
Mammal Course
This 6-week mammal taxidermy course is our most popular and most commonly attended program, offering hands-on training in the complete process of mammal taxidermy from start to finish. Students will learn everything from skinning, caping, fleshing, mounting, sewing, finishing work, and airbrushing techniques.
During the course, students will complete an elk, two deer, an antelope, a small life-size mount with habitat work, and a rug mount. All tools, materials, and animals are provided for the course. Upon completion of the program, all finished mounts belong to the students and will go home with them at the end of the course.
The course also includes instruction in business fundamentals for those interested in growing their own taxidermy business, including pricing, customer service, shop management, and industry expectations.
By the end of the program, students will have the knowledge, confidence, and hands-on experience needed to complete quality mammal mounts.
6 Weeks | maximum 4 students
02.
Bird Course
This 4-week bird taxidermy course is a hands-on program designed to teach the complete mounting process for both waterfowl and upland game birds. Students will learn essential skills including bird handling, skinning, fleshing, washing, and proper preservation, along with form preparation, wiring, and mounting techniques. All tools, materials, and birds are provided for the course. Upon completion of the program, all finished mounts belong to the students and will go home with them at the end of the course. Throughout the course, participants will complete a minimum of five birds, to gain experience with different feather types, body structures, and mounting challenges. Instruction emphasizes attention to detail, anatomy, and natural posture to create realistic, professional-quality mounts. By the end of the program, students will have a strong foundation in bird taxidermy and the confidence to complete mounts from start to finish.
4 Weeks | minimum 2-3 students
Fish Course
03.
This 4-week fish taxidermy course is a hands-on introduction to the full mounting process, designed for beginners and those looking to refine their skills. Students will learn everything from proper fish handling, skinning, and preservation to advanced finishing techniques like airbrush painting and scale tipping. All tools, materials, and fish are provided for the course. Upon completion of the program, all finished mounts belong to the students and will go home with them at the end of the course. Throughout the program, participants will complete five projects: two warm-water fish, two cold-water fish, and one replica fish. By the end of the course, students will have a solid foundation in both skin mounting and replica finishing, along with the skills needed to produce lifelike fish mounts from start to finish.
4 Weeks | minimum 2-3 students
Meet Your Lead Instructor
Tiny Holbrook
Tiny has called Montana home since 2017 and brings years of passion, experience, and dedication to the taxidermy industry. As an instructor, Tiny is committed to helping students build confidence, develop quality skills, and find success doing what they love. Known for a hands-on teaching style and genuine encouragement, Tiny believes anyone willing to learn can create professional-quality work and enjoy a rewarding future in taxidermy.
Meet Our Shop Pets
The friendliest members of the Pro Mount team, always ready to greet students with a wagging tail or a soft purr.
Boone
Sam
Charlie
Boone is our official welcoming committee, known for his love of head scratches.
Sam is our high-energy mascot who loves patrolling the grounds and ensuring everyone stays active.
Charlie ensures all classroom discussions are productive while watching from his favorite high shelf.
The Visionary Behind the School
Meet Our Founder
Dan Kenney
Dan is the founder of Pro Mount School of Taxidermy and built a successful taxidermy career spanning over four decades. After working for thirteen years with the Boy Scouts of America, Dan opened his taxidermy business in Lewistown in 1982. Through dedication, continued education, and years of hands-on experience, he developed extensive knowledge in nearly every area of taxidermy. His vision and commitment to quality helped establish the foundation for the school, which continues today in Billings.
Student Testimonials
“A legitimate school of taxidermy... Valuable knowledge and tools gained, the supportive and relaxed atmosphere, and the friendships formed. This experience has been life changing.”
Suelyn
“I’ve taken every class this school has to offer. The instructors are friendly, knowledgeable, and promote a relaxed fun environment to learn. They ensure you learn the skills required to own your own business.”
eric
“Tiny is a great teacher and the environment was so nice. Small class made it personal with lots of one on one instruction. As a younger woman, I really recommend pro mount. You will never feel out of place at all regardless of age or gender. I feel ready to start my own taxidermy business after taking this class.”
Sarena
Our Location
Student housing is available for those attending our courses.
For complete details about housing options, accommodations, and pricing, please request a student catalog or contact us directly.
We’ll be happy to answer any questions and help you plan your stay while attending school in Billings.
529 Jaque Ln.
Billings, MT 59105
Professional Affiliations
Vocational & Assistance Programs
Pro-Mount School of Taxidermy works with a variety of vocational rehabilitation and workforce assistance programs, including agencies in Montana, Washington, Wyoming, Idaho, and Oregon, as well as Worker’s Compensation agencies. These partnerships help provide career training opportunities for qualifying students pursuing education in the taxidermy industry. Contact for more information.
