Rockford, OH
Taxidermists in Mercer County, Ohio
Mercer County offers a few reliable options for hunters looking to preserve a trophy after a successful season. With four active taxidermists located in Celina, Rockford, and Saint Henry, you can find help whether you need a traditional shoulder mount or specialized skull work. These shops handle local whitetail and waterfowl taken near Grand Lake St. Marys or the surrounding woodlots.
If you are looking for European mounts, Bare Bones Custom Skulls in Rockford is one of the available choices for skull cleaning. It is best to call ahead during the archery and firearm seasons to check on current turnaround times and drop-off requirements. Having these local shops nearby saves you from driving across the state to get your deer or birds to a professional.
4 taxidermists in Mercer County
Serving Celina, Rockford, Saint Henry.
Rockford, OH
Saint Henry, OH
Celina, OH
Using taxidermists in Mercer 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.
