Put up 1/2 plywood covered by plasterboard so no looking for studs and can hang where want. Ceiling height good input. Had an elk looked like he was grazing on the carpet because of top low ceiling. Stupid me.
One of the nicest setups I've seen was knotty pine bottom to chair rail, then it was repurposed barnwood above. The mounts looked awesome on that wood plus he mounted Euro head style on Skull Hookers directly onto board. He posted up another site I was on and if I can find it will link it. But repurposed wood can really be an interesting plus bring added touch to the mounts themselves.
Yo u can just go the finished wood route first of your pick,or ply behind all,or you can put ply in between studs at select locations.I have 28 x30 trophy room,I did 3/4 ply @ 4' up, sheet rock ,hand texture then faux finish.