NTA
Est. 1972 · Preserving the Craft
National Taxidermists
Association · Est. 1972
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Every award presented at the 2026 National Taxidermists Association Championship awards ceremony in Bowling Green, Kentucky — from Best of Show and Taxidermist of the Year to the North American, National and Distinguished Taxidermist divisions.
The judges’ choice for 2026 NTA Best of Show and Taxidermist of the Year went to Jenna Everage for a whitetail that also took the Breakthrough and Pro-1 awards. Runner-up Best of Show and the McKenzie Most Artistic WASCO Award went to Kent Reedy for a ruffed grouse. Distinguished Taxidermist went to Clint Rickey, Abel Everage and Chip Wendt.
Below is the full results list. Open any photograph to see it full size. Looking for the state show runner-up awards? They are on the 2026 Runner-Up Award page.
The night’s biggest awards.
Champion title medallions, by category.
The national division, by category.
Mounted on the show floor during the convention.
People recognized for what they have given the association.
Judges: James Newport (Whitetail), Mike Doyle (Lifesize & Gameheads), Chase Courtney (Waterfowl & Bird), Jimmy Lawrence (Fish & Reptile) and Mike Mizelle (Turkey).
Sponsors: McKenzie Taxidermy Supply (Platinum), Headquarters Taxidermy Supply (Gold), Shawn Shaw (Silver), and Payer Plus, Max Rickerson and Neuline — Bill Neuman (Bronze).
Seminar instructors: Mike Mizelle, Jimmy Lawrence, Scott Brassfield & Scott Roscoe, Abel Everage, Jena Everage, Dave Pearson, Hannah Stolz and James Newport.
And to every competitor, vendor and volunteer who made the 2026 show.