Bobo, yes you need a cape to get them shoulder mounted. Check with your taxidermist he may have a cape for you. You could get them mounted on a skull cap mount with a plague as well.

I keep every shed I find, regardless of the shape or size. I have some stored in a box, some on shelves, some mounted on a skull cap/plague, used them for making things, rattling if real fresh (but not matcher's, as they are rare and real trophies imo) and I would mount a set in a heartbeat if I found the right set in excellent shape.

Pearl, not sure in your parts but check with the DNR they should be able to give you an idea when to start looking. Here it is Jan-March, factors such as stress will vary when they drop as well. I start looking hard come Feb though as a general rule.