Quick Facts & Highlights
Species Name: Freshwater Drum
Scientific Name: Aplodinotus grunniens
Common Nicknames: Gaspergou, Sheephead
Species Category: Primitive & Unique
Available Lengths Range: 23'' (single size only)
Mount Options & Base Rates:
Half Wall Mount: $230 (fixed 23" size)
Full Wall Mount: $391 (fixed 23" size)
360° Suspension Mount: $460 (fixed 23" size)
Catch Photo Matching: Included at no extra charge
Materials & Construction: High-density fiberglass composite cast from first-generation molds, hand-painted glass eyes set in epoxy, automotive-grade airbrush pigments, and UV-resistant urethane clear coat, built in the USA
Turnaround Time: Check the "Current Production Time" link in the website footer.
The Heavyweight of the River System
The Freshwater Drum is known for its distinct grunting sound and deep, heavy-shouldered build. Whether you pulled a massive "Gaspergou" from a southern river or hauled a trophy "Sheephead" out of the Great Lakes, landing one of these bottom-feeding powerhouses is a memorable event. Florida Fish Mounts, based in Cocoa, Florida, is the shop of artist Greg Cassell, specializing in custom-painted fiberglass Freshwater Drum replicas that turn your unique catch into high-end coastal décor.
The Modern Solution for River Giants
The greatest advantage of a fiberglass replica is that it allows you to keep your catch for the cooler or release a mature breeder back to the river. Traditional skin mounts are notorious for failing because the natural oils and heavy scales of the drum eventually break down, causing the mount to shrink, crack, and discolor over time. Greg solves this by utilizing professional-grade fiberglass blanks manufactured right here in Florida. This ensures the deep, humpbacked profile and distinct silver tones remain permanently preserved without the mess or deterioration of old-school taxidermy.
Anatomical Accuracy:
The Humpbacked Profile A true Freshwater Drum (Aplodinotus grunniens) is defined by its steeply sloped head, silvery-gray coloration, and heavy, distinct scales. Greg ensures strict adherence to this morphology, meticulously hand-painting the subtle iridescent pinks and purples that flash along the flanks of a mature drum. We offer this custom build in a highly detailed 23-inch model.
Custom Pattern Matching (Optional)
While Greg offers custom pattern matching at no additional cost, a photo is not a requirement for your build. If you do not have a photo of your fish, no problem. Greg will hand-paint your replica to the traditional, vibrant color phase of a trophy Freshwater Drum. If you do have a photo you would like him to use as a roadmap to match your specific catch, simply upload it during the checkout process.
Select Your Mount Style
To begin your custom build, use the dropdown menus above to select your Mount Type. We offer this model exclusively in the 23-inch size. Half Mounts for this 23-inch replica start at $230, and the price scales accordingly if you upgrade to a Full or 360° Suspension Mount. Once you select your specific options, the final price will update automatically. Proceed through checkout to secure your place in Greg’s shop schedule.
