Step 1 Measure fish to choose proper head and body size. Alter mannikin as shown to achieve smooth head to body union.

Step 2 Skin the fish, cutting close to the gills and over the top of the head where the smooth skin starts. Flesh, wash, and tan the skin.

Step 3 With hide paste on the mannikin, position the skin with the anatomical reference points on the mannikin. Lock in place with T-pins.

Step 4 Staple or sew the seam on the back of the fish. Pin the fins.

Step 5 Position the artificial head on the body using T-pins in the eye sockets. Secure with Bondo.

Step 6 Card the fins and allow the fish to dry completely. Use sculpting epoxy to blend the seams.