DAYTON-For most people, the dream of achiev- ing Best in World status in their art is simply that – a dream. But for Tom Schirm, of Dayton, that dream is well within reach. In fact, Schirm currently holds third place Best in World Overall honors for his realis- tic fish carvings.

In early May, Schirm traveled to Springfield, Mis- souri where the competed in the World Taxidermy and Fish Carving Championships. Schirm entered his 13-inch, westslope cutthroat trout carving in the Trout/Salmon/Char category. He placed well enough to advance and compete against all life-size pieces in all categ...