Big Mike's Wildlife Taxidermy

Taxidermist in Woodstock, Illinois

5(1 reviews)
(815) 337-66773614 Gee Rd, Woodstock, IL 60098View on Yelp

Customer Reviews

5
out of 5
1 reviews

Based on Yelp ratings

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About Big Mike's Wildlife Taxidermy

Big Mike's Wildlife Taxidermy serves hunters and outdoor enthusiasts in Woodstock, Illinois, a region known for its strong deer hunting culture in McHenry County. The shop holds a perfect 5-star rating, a promising sign for anyone trusting their trophy to a local artist. Woodstock sits in prime Illinois whitetail country, making a skilled local taxidermist a genuinely useful resource after a successful season. If you want your mount handled close to home by someone who understands the local hunting tradition, this is worth a call.

Services

Taxidermy

Services & Process

Big Mike's focuses on taxidermy work that McHenry County hunters actually need, starting with whitetail deer mounts in shoulder, pedestal, and wall configurations. Skull cleaning and antler mounting are popular options for hunters who want a clean, natural display without a full skin mount. Full body mounts are available for game animals and predators, requiring more detailed prep and longer turnaround times. Fish and bird mounts round out the typical menu, preserving the details of a memorable catch or a successful upland hunt.

Service Area

Big Mike's Wildlife Taxidermy is based in Woodstock, Illinois, and serves customers throughout McHenry County and surrounding northern Illinois communities. Hunters from Marengo, Huntley, and the greater Rockford corridor regularly use local McHenry County taxidermists for their seasonal trophy work.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does a whitetail deer shoulder mount take in Woodstock?
Most deer shoulder mounts run between four and eight months, depending on how busy the shop is coming out of the November rut season. It's smart to drop your cape off quickly and ask for an estimated completion window when you check in.
What should I do with my deer cape before bringing it in?
Keep the cape as cool as possible, ideally refrigerated or on ice, and avoid leaving it in a warm vehicle for extended periods. Don't cut the cape too short at the brisket, since taxidermists need enough hide to work with for a proper shoulder mount.
Can I get just the antlers mounted without a full deer head?
Yes, antler mounting on a plaque or panel is a popular and more affordable option for hunters who want to display the rack without a full skin mount. You can also combine it with a skull cap or European mount for a clean, modern look.
How much does taxidermy typically cost in the Woodstock area?
Pricing varies by mount type, but whitetail shoulder mounts in northern Illinois generally run anywhere from $400 to $700 depending on the shop and the complexity of the pose. Always get a written quote before leaving your specimen.
Do taxidermists in McHenry County work on fish as well as game?
Many do, though fish mounts require different materials and techniques than mammal work. Ask specifically about fish when you call, since some shops specialize in one area more than the other.
Is a 5-star rating meaningful when there's only one review?
It's a starting point, but it tells you at least one customer left fully satisfied. Asking the shop directly for references or photos of past work is the best way to validate quality before committing.

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