About Us ... Meet the LODGEMAN ... Jeff McDaniel
The LODGE ... is a small family run taxidermy business. We
limit our focus to 50 deer each year. Rather than take in
everything, we focus on quality work, timely turn around time,
and keeping our clients happy. Many hunters or their families
bring us deer every year. That relationship is too important.
Quality work and a fair price, that's our goal. We have mounted many trophies ... but the whitetail is our speciality. The LODGE started in 1996 as a small taxidermy shop helping raise three children in an ever demanding economy. Over the years, I've mounted many trophies and built a strong relationship with my clients. My sons & I have been hunting since they were young children. I've enjoyed the time spent with them, watching them
grow into young adults. Being a father is my greatest accomplishment.
Starting in Oct, the Illinois Archery season and running through
the entire season, including the Illinois firearm season, the
LODGE takes in the most of it's workload. During the two
weekend firearm seasons, is when the LODGE receives 75%
of it's whitetail trophies. Most trophies are finished by June the following year. Although, from time to time, life does seem to change my plans and a few of the last trophies brought in, may
not finish up until August or September.
Other mounts or speciality requests will be handled one on
one. So please call or send a note if you have any questions.
The LODGE started hunting in Wyoming in 1997. My first
humble trip resulted in a outstanding 15" Antelope. And from
there , ... I was hooked. I've traveled to Wyoming every year
since that first trip. I've made friends and relationships that I
would not trade for anything. Once my first trip was over, I
started planning others. My family and I have hunted many
places, and enjoy the time together, as much as the actual
hunts. Some of the hunts we've been on or places we've hunted are ... Wyoming, Missouri, Iowa, Texas, Kansas, and New Foundland-CAN. We've hunted Elk, Moose, Caribou, Whitetails, Mule Deer, Turkeys, Coyotes, Fox, Pheasants, Ducks, Geese, Quail, rabbits, Racoon, Prairie Dogs and Squirrel.
This Photo courtesy of Bob Kompel ... our Pro Staff member.
We love all hunting ....
The LODGE also loves to create natural art work. I custom
carve deer antlers into mushrooms, free standing or business
card holders, Earrings and Necklaces. I've carved Eagles out
of antlers and really, ... anything is possible. If you are wanting
that one gift, that one item you can't find anywhere ... carved
deer antler art work might be an idea? Please ... keep checking
in the LODGE gear section for photos of my work.
AND ...
Here's more random photos from our world .... enjoy !