Mooch's Taxidermy

Taxidermist in Ottawa, Illinois

(815) 228-4453, Ottawa, IL 61350View on Yelp
Mooch's Taxidermy - taxidermy in Ottawa, IL

About Mooch's Taxidermy

Mooch's Taxidermy operates out of Ottawa, Illinois, the seat of LaSalle County and a city positioned right along the Illinois River. Ottawa is a hub for serious outdoorsmen, with the Starved Rock State Park corridor drawing hunters and anglers from across the state. A local taxidermist here has deep familiarity with the regional species and terrain. Reach Mooch's directly at (815) 228-4453 to talk through your project.

Services

Taxidermy

Services & Process

Mooch's Taxidermy provides mounting services for the wide variety of game taken in the LaSalle County area. Whitetail deer shoulder mounts are a natural specialty given the region's dense deer population. The proximity to the Illinois River means waterfowl mounts, including mallards and Canada geese, are also common requests. Fish mounts, wild turkey mounts, and antler display work give customers plenty of options for preserving their best catches and harvests.

Service Area

Mooch's Taxidermy serves Ottawa and the broader LaSalle County area, including nearby communities like Streator, Peru, and Marseilles. Hunters and anglers working the Illinois River corridor and the surrounding agricultural lands make up a big portion of the customer base. The shop is centrally located for outdoorsmen across north-central Illinois.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does Mooch's Taxidermy do waterfowl mounts?
Ottawa sits along the Illinois River, one of the best waterfowl corridors in the Midwest, so bird mounts are a natural service for local taxidermists. Ducks, geese, and other migratory birds are common requests during and after hunting season.
How do I preserve a fish for mounting after I catch it?
The best approach is to keep the fish wet and out of the sun, then get it to the taxidermist as quickly as possible. If that's not an option, wrap it carefully in a damp cloth, place it in a sealed bag, and freeze it flat to avoid deforming the body.
Can I get a replica mount instead of a skin mount for my fish?
Yes, many taxidermists offer replica mounts, which are cast from fiberglass and painted to match your fish's coloring based on photos you provide. Replicas are a good option when you want to release the fish or when the catch has been on ice too long for a quality skin mount.
How long will a finished taxidermy mount last?
A well-made mount kept in a stable indoor environment can last for many decades. Avoid direct sunlight, high humidity, and extreme temperature swings, all of which can cause fading, cracking, or hide deterioration over time.
Is it legal to have certain animals mounted in Illinois?
Most game animals taken legally during an open season can be mounted without issue. However, certain migratory birds and protected species have specific regulations, so it's worth confirming legality before dropping off any unusual specimen.
What information should I bring when I drop off my deer?
Bring your Illinois hunting license and any required tags or harvest reporting confirmation. The taxidermist may also want to know the date and location of the harvest to log the animal properly and assist with any documentation questions.

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