Kegan P.
1/5
In August of 2022, I entrusted Florida Trophy Gators with a full-body mount of my alligator. I was originally quoted 18–24 months for completion; it ultimately took 28 months. Although communication was poor throughout the process, I was willing to wait longer for what I hoped would be a perfect final product. During the build, I provided very specific measurements and told them the narrowest opening in my home was 35 inches—this detail would prove critical later. On delivery day, March 27, 2025, Florida Trophy Gators attached the wrong shipping paperwork, leading to the wrong mount being delivered. This mistake forced me to take a day off work unnecessarily.
Despite the mix-up not being their fault, Trophy Transport went above and beyond to correct it. Thanks to Ginger and her team’s professionalism and care, I received my actual mount by April 10—well ahead of my requested date of April 13. I can’t say enough good things about Trophy Transport and their level of service.
Unfortunately, once the correct alligator arrived, several issues became immediately apparent—none of which could be attributed to shipping. There were flaking scales, missing pieces, inconsistent coating, and overspray on the bottom jaw—one of the most visible parts of the mount. These defects pointed to clear quality control issues and poor craftsmanship.
Wade from Florida Trophy Gators initially blamed Trophy Transport for the damage, but I had firsthand insight into their careful handling and knew this wasn’t the case. In fact, Ginger even mentioned that their company was considering ending their partnership with Florida Trophy Gators due to concerns like mine. Another major issue arose when we attempted to bring the mount inside. Despite my clear communication and proof that no part could exceed 35 inches, one section of the base measured 41 inches. The agreed-upon three-piece base was not honored. Their proposed solution? Cut up my brand-new mount and use a DIY repair kit they would send. After paying thousands, I shouldn't be doing repairs due to their oversight. Because of the delivery complications, I missed work and part of my son’s first birthday while trying to get the mount indoors. Once I had proper lighting and time for a thorough inspection, I discovered even more flaws, which I documented in photos.
I reached out to Sarah at Florida Trophy Gators and remained polite and professional. I asked that they either send someone to make repairs or provide a kit along with a 25% refund (roughly $2000) to cover professional repair costs. Sarah had been working with me until April 17, when I learned she no longer worked there. Before her departure, she told me Sharonna had offered $1000 and a kit, acknowledging the quality issues. While I appreciated Sharonna’s professionalism, the offer fell short of what would be needed to correct the damage. When I reiterated my request, she said she needed to speak with Wade, the co-owner. Wade called me the next day and was rude, dismissive, and even laughed at my concerns. He said, “Best of luck. I wouldn’t have even offered you what Sharonna did,” and mocked a second opinion I received from another taxidermist.
Regarding the overspray, he said, “If it really bothers you that bad, just scrub it off with paint thinner.” This is an $8000 mount, not a DIY project. If you paid for a professional paint job on your car and it came back with overspray and chipping, you'd expect it to be fixed—not be told to clean it yourself.
