Taxidermists in Franklin County, Indiana

Franklin County offers plenty of terrain for harvesting trophy whitetails and spring gobblers, especially around the Brookville Lake area and the Whitewater River valley. When you get a deer or bird down, you need a local shop that understands the anatomy of Midwestern game. There are currently five taxidermy operations serving the county, with professionals located in Brookville, Laurel, Metamora, and West Harrison.

These local taxidermists, such as Brown's Taxidermy in Metamora, handle everything from traditional shoulder mounts to European mounts and small game. Having a shop nearby makes it easier to drop off your harvest quickly to prevent spoilage during the early archery season. These craftsmen are familiar with the specific size and rack characteristics of southern Indiana wildlife.

5 taxidermists in Franklin County

Serving Brookville, Laurel, Metamora, West Harrison.

Using taxidermists in Franklin County

A taxidermist takes your cape and antlers, preps and tans the hide, then mounts the animal on a form. Most shops want the cape caped out and frozen, or the whole head delivered cold and unfrozen within a day or two of the kill.

What to ask before you commit

  • What is your current turnaround time, in months?
  • Do you tan in-house or send hides out?
  • What deposit do you require, and is it applied to the final price?
  • Can I see finished mounts of the same species?
  • How should I care for the cape before I bring it in?

What it usually costs

Shoulder mounts commonly run several hundred to well over a thousand dollars depending on species, form and finish work. European mounts are typically the least expensive option. Deposits of 30-50% are standard.

Timing matters

Get the cape cold fast. Do not salt or freeze a cape you plan to have mounted without asking the shop first — hair slip from a warm hide is the single most common ruined mount.

Other services in Franklin County

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