{KXLG – Watertown, South Dakota} A local taxidermist has taken home a prestigious silver medal on the international stage. Justin Bach, owner and operator of Bach Taxidermy in Watertown, South Dakota, won second place in the white-tailed deer division at the 2024 World Taxidermy Show in Coralville, Iowa.
Bach's achievement is a testament to his skill and dedication as a craftsman. Winning the silver medal in the White-tailed Deer category out of over 70 submissions is a major achievement. This was Bach's first time competing at the World Taxidermy Show, a global competition showcasing the best taxidermy work from around the world.
“It's really inspiring to see all the talented people that come together and the amount of work that goes into a show like this,” Bach said. “This was my first time competing at the World Taxidermy Show, which had over 700 entries, making it the biggest world show to date, and it was definitely a great show.”
Bach has been a professional taxidermist for 12 years, and in addition to his recent success at the World Taxidermy Show, he has won numerous awards in regional and national competitions, including the Breakthrough Best of Show Award at the 2024 South Dakota Taxidermy Show, Pro 1 Award, Journeyman Award and State Champion Award.
Bach's roommate and friend, Derrick Wenk, said, “What an amazing achievement! I told Justin's parents last winter that he had the ability to win the world number one title and I was right. Well done, Justin! I'm so proud of you!”
The World Taxidermy Show is a biennial event that brings together taxidermists from around the world. Competitions have a variety of categories, including mammals, birds, fish, and reptiles. Winners are judged on factors such as realism, accuracy, and artistic merit.
Bach's silver medal is a great achievement for himself and the state of South Dakota. His success highlights the talent and skill of local taxidermists and helps establish South Dakota as a leader in the field.
World Taxidermy & Fish Carving Championships® » August 2024, Coralville, Iowa, USA
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