After canceling the scheduled 2020 convention due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the NTA came roaring back to Sioux Falls, South Dakota, for the 50th annual National Taxidermists Association convention, competition, and trade show. The NTA had been at this facility three times before: in 2005, 2011, and 2019, at the Ramkota Hotel and Convention Center. There were 233 competition entries, 110 registrations, 196 banquet attendees, and 27 states represented.

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This is a paint schedule for a flathead catfish (Pylodictus olivaris) or what some folks call an opelousas or yellow cat.

Like all fish, these catfish vary in coloration from a yellow to brown and almost black at times. They are a fun and profitable fish to do as they cannot be conventionally mounted very well, so a good replica will save you a lot of grief. I learned this technique from my good friend and fellow “fishhead” taxidermist Don Frank. It has come to be known as sponge painting. I apply the basic colors and then add the detailing with a coarse sea sponge. The effect is very accurate and a lot better than trying to do the pattern with an airbrush.

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