Preserving pelts help

[F/V Gulf Ventur]

I am getting into tying and I am receiving animal pelts (skins, hide or whatever its supposed to be called) from a friend who is a trapper. I plan on storing them in a rubbermaid style tote. Is there anything else I need to be doing to keep these in good condition?

Also, I am brand spanking new to tying so is there a use for all kinds of fur? beaver, muskrat, fisher cat, coyote, fox, weasel etc?

Thanks

[Improv]

I'm not sure about the coyote, but all the other fur is great. However, just like feathers, some furs are going to be better than others. Also, remember this... fur last a long time, so in other words, a little goes a long way. I would have a house full of feathers before I had a house full of dead animal pelts. Tupperware (Rubbermaid) containers are great; Ziploc Baggies will do just fine too.

If you have extra muskrat, I'll take some off your hands.

[Grizz]

If you have extra muskrat, I'll take some off your hands.

2nd that, If your trapper friend has surplus muskrat &/or beaver, I'd be interested in some. I like the natural properties of both, as they are both water borne critters. Muskrat is my favorite dub fer sure.

I'd keep the pelts seperate in ziplock bags.

peace

[lewie]

Be sure they're tanned or preserves with salt and borax before you stash them, or you'll have a big surprise when you open those tupperware containers.

[F/V Gulf Ventur]

Improv and Grizz -
I'll see what happens. I am always up for the trade and barter system.... Is one part of the muskrat or beaver better than another? He has many items to choose from, I just don't know what to ask for yet :)

lewie - I am certain that they are tanned. If so, would you still preserve Salt and Borax?

[FlySmyth]

Count me in on the muskrat/beaver pelt want some list. Willing to trade/barter too.

If your bud is a good taxi. then I am sure the hides are good to go. One way to tell is if you hold it up to your nose and can still smell the animal the bugs that eat hides can too. Although that is a simplified way to eliminate the obviously not good hides it is not a thorough way to tell a hide is mint.

FlySmyth.

[lewie]

If it's tanned, there's no need for further preservation. Open them up occasionally and look for signs of bugs etc. As mentioned above, your nose is a good tool to determine if further steps need to be taken.

[jonescort]

I will buy some beaver pelt from you if you are willing to sell.

[wildnative]

If'n them there pelts arn't tanned, and there what we mountainmen call "green" you'll want to get them preserved. A simple salt and alum self-tan will work since they wont be going out in the weather. If they are tanned you are good to go. I would suggest finding some cedar wood and just putting a few peices in the tupperware just to help keep the bugs out.

[Red.Fly]

I will buy some beaver pelt from you if you are willing to sell.

You're a little young to be buying beaver aren't you? All in due time jonesy....all in due time.

[Garth]

You are never to young to hunt beaver. Keeping a pelt, maybe out of line for anyone. Paying for beaver is just wrong anytime.

[joshuahodges]

Improv and Grizz -
Is one part of the beaver better than another?

HAHAHAHa if you have to ask you don't need to know.

[Garth]

Think I mqde a mistake. Been married for 35 years. Some would say I have been paying for 35 years.

[F/V Gulf Ventur]

Court & flysmith - Once I get them I will figure out the situation and go from there. I am sure I will have extra. You are on the list.

I one part of the ANIMAL better to use for tying flies than another?

[FlySmyth]

It is my understanding the belly hair is the best. Now that depends on what kind of fly you're tying.

FlySmyth.