Ace Taxidermy in business for almost 60 years
Ace Taxidermy outside Bela-Bela was established as a family business in the early 1960’s and is still run by the Esterhuizen family who, up to this day, serves the hunting industry.
Chris Esterhuizen, owner, learned all the ropes and skills of taxidermy from his late father, Andries Esterhuizen, who started the business in 1962 in Krugerdorp (now Mogale City). Andries was one of the founder members of the Taxidermy Association of South Africa (TASA).
The business was later relocated to Bela-Bela to be able to service more sporting hunters, as well as professional hunters and outfitters. The collection of trophies on the surrounding game farms is evidence of Ace’s outstanding service.
The workshop of the taxidermy is an impressive 1800 m² (covered) which includes a storage room, a cold room, a workshop and an office, 57 years’ experience is definitely shown in the quality and craftsmanship of Ace’s work. All skulls are mounted on a solid wood shield and they also specialize in birds and fish mounting.
The tanning of the hides are done by a company established in 1989. They use a chrome tanning process that ensures that tanned skins are of a very high quality. Rug mounts are done with or without the animal’s original teeth.
Ace’s clientele basis is represented by hundreds of satisfied customers all over the world. Chris refers to his trophies as “art work” and some of these art works is currently in Sweden, America, Germany, France, Austria, Belgium, England and of course South Africa.
Ace Taxidermy’s export crates are handled with utmost care and professionalism. They are working closely with the airlines and airport staff locally and abroad. The export side of the business is able to quote excellent prices to ship their goods globally.
For the hunter’s absolute piece of mind on a life-like trophy, contact Ace Taxidermy on tel. (014) 736 4461 or 082 807 7933 or visit the website www.acetaxidermy.co.za(.)
