The Gag Grouper: A Gulf and Atlantic Staple
The Gag Grouper (Mycteroperca microlepis) is a highly sought-after Gulf and Atlantic gamefish. Frequently referred to by the regional angler nickname "grey grouper," it is heavily targeted around offshore reefs and rocky bottom structures. Florida Fish Mounts, operating out of Cocoa, Florida, builds custom fiberglass Gag Grouper replica mounts. Artist Greg Cassell hand-paints each replica to preserve your specific catch as a permanent piece of premium lodge décor.
Anatomical Accuracy: First-Generation Molds
To ensure absolute biological fidelity, Gag Grouper replica mounts at Florida Fish Mounts are cast from first-generation molds. This species is frequently confused with the Black Grouper (Mycteroperca bonaci), making precise anatomical details critical. Greg treats every mount as a highly specific biological project, featuring hand-sculpted mouths and hand-painted glass eyes. Greg Cassell hand-paints every Gag Grouper replica mount to match the angler's catch photo using automotive-grade multi-stage airbrush pigments.
Eat Your Catch and Mount the Memory
Because the Gag Grouper is prized for its flaky white flesh, a catch-and-release fiberglass replica mount is a common alternative to keeping the fish. With a fiberglass replica, there is no fish required. Anglers can simply submit a catch photo and release the fish, or harvest the fillets for the grill while still putting the trophy on the wall. Furthermore, traditional skin taxidermy is a poor choice for this species. Fiberglass Gag Grouper replicas do not suffer the grease bleed or color fade common to traditional skin mounts of oily species. Every fiberglass piece is sealed with a UV-resistant urethane clear coat for permanent color retention indoors or outdoors.
Custom Pattern Matching (Optional)
Greg offers custom pattern matching at no additional cost. Simply use the upload button located directly below this description before or after placing your order. Greg will use your catch photo as the direct reference to reproduce the exact mottled markings and fin conditions of your specific grouper. If you do not have a photo, Greg will paint the mount to represent a traditional, species-accurate color phase.
The Final Approval Process
Your satisfaction is our priority. Once Greg completes the airbrushing of your replica, we email you high-resolution photos for your review before anything else is done. We do not apply the protective clear coat or begin the crating process until you have seen the photos and given your explicit approval of the paintwork. Your mount is not finished until you say it is.
Shipping and Final Invoicing
Shipping is calculated and billed separately from your initial order. Because fish mounts vary significantly in size and weight, we do not provide a flat shipping rate at checkout. Once your approved mount is packaged and the final crate dimensions are confirmed, we send a separate invoice for the shipping balance. Your replica ships via UPS Ground immediately upon payment. The standard turnaround for a custom Gag Grouper replica mount is 9 to 12 weeks, depending on seasonal shop volume.
Select Your Mount Style and Length
Use the dropdown menus above to select your Mount Type and Length. The Gag Grouper is available in sizes ranging from 19 to 54 inches. Pricing is based on a progressive scale depending on the size and style you select. Gag Grouper half mount replica pricing starts at $10 per inch for sizes up to 64 inches. Gag Grouper full mount replica pricing starts at $17 per inch for sizes up to 64 inches. 360-degree suspension mounts start at $20 per inch. For a 19-inch half mount, pricing begins at $190. Your final price updates automatically once your selections are made. Proceed through checkout to secure your place in Greg's shop schedule
