Complaints

The complaint text that is displayed might not represent all complaints filed with BBB. Some consumers may elect to not publish the details of their complaints, some complaints may not meet BBB's standards for publication, or BBB may display a portion of complaints when a high volume is received for a particular business.

• Initial Complaint

  Date:06/19/2025

  Type:Service or Repair Issues
  Status:

  AnsweredMore info

  Complaint statuses

  Resolved:

  The complainant verified the issue was resolved to their satisfaction.

  Unresolved:

  The business responded to the dispute but failed to make a good faith effort to resolve it.

  Answered:

  The business addressed the issues within the complaint, but the consumer either a) did not accept the response, OR b) did not notify BBB as to their satisfaction.

  Unanswered:

  The business failed to respond to the dispute.

  Unpursuable:

  BBB is unable to locate the business.

  This happened on June 8, 2025. The Bahamas Chubasco Fishing Boat. This was our first time deep sea fishing, my husband caught a 250 lb Blue ******, it was catch and release, we were then told we qualified for a plague to honor the catch. There was alot happening on the boat and we were given the paperwork to sign for the ***lica to be made we were told it was a deposit and the balance owed was on the bottom line, No other information was given nor were we shown any documentation of pricing. After we got home we heard nothing from this company I called them, and a *** named ***** said he had the order and we needed to pick out the mount. We did so then was told they could not start the work til paid in full, We were going to send the balance that was on our receipt then, the bait and switch happened now we owed more than the balance shown, we then said ok, and then the bait and switch happened again more was added to the receipt adding up to almost an extra $3000 dollars. We stated that is twice what we had signed for and we wished to not move forward. And please refund the $700 deposit. They said that it was non refundable. I explained that the contract was invalid as line 7 never happened as we never at anytime on or off the boat before signature were shown any pricing sheets. They are now keeping my $700 hostage . No work should have ever been started as the final payment wasn't made. No work has been done so my deposit paid for what? This is a ***lica and there is not a fish to have on ice or any type of Maintenace on their part of any kind, Add when we told them we were not moving forward they tired to change up the pricing. We said no the trust had already been broken as obviously they were over charging us and they knew it. This is a scam, a switch and bait, They prey on people that are put in an awkward emotional moment. This company is unethical and are cheating people out of their hard earned money.

  Business Response

  Date: 06/30/2025

  Gray Taxidermy and Mr. **** came to an amicable resolution.

• Initial Complaint

  Date:06/13/2025

  Type:Service or Repair Issues
  Status:

  AnsweredMore info

  Complaint statuses

  Resolved:

  The complainant verified the issue was resolved to their satisfaction.

  Unresolved:

  The business responded to the dispute but failed to make a good faith effort to resolve it.

  Answered:

  The business addressed the issues within the complaint, but the consumer either a) did not accept the response, OR b) did not notify BBB as to their satisfaction.

  Unanswered:

  The business failed to respond to the dispute.

  Unpursuable:

  BBB is unable to locate the business.

  While fishing in ****** a company called grey taxidermy was supposed to taxidermy a sailfish for me. Essentially they said it was supposed to be 1700 dollars which they up the price when I got to shore to 2100 then again 2400 and then 3400 dollars. They are not even taxidermy the actual fish they are making a replica with fiberglass. I tried getting back my deposit of 981 dollars and they wont give it back.

  Business Response

  Date: 06/24/2025

  We are currently working to provide an amicable resolution

• Initial Complaint

  Date:06/12/2025

  Type:Service or Repair Issues
  Status:

  ResolvedMore info

  Complaint statuses

  Resolved:

  The complainant verified the issue was resolved to their satisfaction.

  Unresolved:

  The business responded to the dispute but failed to make a good faith effort to resolve it.

  Answered:

  The business addressed the issues within the complaint, but the consumer either a) did not accept the response, OR b) did not notify BBB as to their satisfaction.

  Unanswered:

  The business failed to respond to the dispute.

  Unpursuable:

  BBB is unable to locate the business.

  First of all, Gray Taxidermy is NOT an accredited BBB Business!! Big difference!! These guys are bait and switch masters. I went on a fishing charter in ******** and my son happened to land a good size Mahi Mahi. Immediately the sales pitch starting rolling from the captain and the first **** that we should get a replica mount made from Gray Taxidermy. My son was super excited about the fish. Once we got back to the dock, the captain and the first **** continued with the sales pitch. I asked the captain what the cost would be to get a replica. He got his tape out and measure the fish and gave me a price of $888. My first response was to repeat $888 to him and ask if that was the total cost to have it shipped to my house in **. He said, yes that includes shipping. After seeing the excitement in my son's face, I decided to go for it. I then whipped out my cc and gave it to the captian. He filled out all of his parts of the forms and then I filled out my part and signed it. I realize and acknowledge that the in big bold letters the form said DEPOSIT NOT REFUNDABLE. I was not worried about that because I agreed to the total cost of $888. Well, the invoice showed up and it was for the total of $1,178.20, which I did not agree to!! I have since contacted several individuals at Gray Taxidermy and asked for a refund. Ofcourse I was immediately turned down. This company takes advantages of people on vacation. They quote you one price and then charge you way more. What is really sad about this company is that they have had this same complaint for years!! Instead of giving their targets refunds, they developed forms and puts systems into place so that they can keep your money and there is nothing you can do about it. I find it quite disgusting that a normal operating procedure for a company is to steal money from people. Do your research on these guys. You will be shocked with the number of complaints that have been filed! I will add more info when the scammers reply to this!

  Business Response

  Date: 06/24/2025

  The charter companies that Gray Taxidermy works with are third party independent contractors. Our contracts are in place to protect the consumers as well as our interests. It clearly states right above the signature required for the nonrefundable deposit that Gray Taxidermy***** will not honor any oral representation. All terms and conditions of the contract between parties must be in writing in a form acceptable to Gray Taxidermy, Inc. Gray Taxidermy made significant reductions to try and accommodate Mr ******** We were unable to come to an agreement. After further review and consideration, we were going to process a refund. However, Mr. ******* initiated a charge back. Gray Taxidermy will not protest his chargeback and the money will be credit to his account 

  Customer Answer

  Date: 07/02/2025

   
  Better Business Bureau:
  
  I have reviewed the response made by the business in reference to complaint ID ********, and find that this resolution is satisfactory to me.

  However, Gray Taxidermy instructed me to reach out to the captain of the vessel to dispute the charges as the total bill was NOT what was discussed on the dock. I feel since the captain was representing/selling services provided by Gray Taxidermy, they should be the responsible party to work it out with the captain. 

  I do appreciate Gray Taxidermy not disputing my charge back with my credit card company for this situation as it was the right thing to do. 
  
  Sincerely,
  
  **** *******

• Initial Complaint

  Date:06/10/2025

  Type:Product Issues
  Status:

  ResolvedMore info

  Complaint statuses

  Resolved:

  The complainant verified the issue was resolved to their satisfaction.

  Unresolved:

  The business responded to the dispute but failed to make a good faith effort to resolve it.

  Answered:

  The business addressed the issues within the complaint, but the consumer either a) did not accept the response, OR b) did not notify BBB as to their satisfaction.

  Unanswered:

  The business failed to respond to the dispute.

  Unpursuable:

  BBB is unable to locate the business.

  Fishing charter in ******, the captain told our group he works with a company who will mount our fish. He pulled out a card and gave us pricing based on the size of our fish. He told us that shipping was included and that the price he quoted was the final price, there were no additional fees. I paid a deposit of ****** and the remaining ****** was due upon completion of project. When I got home, I received an email from the company stating that there were shipping and crating fees, which were roughly an additional 400$ AND additional mounting fees. At the time of purchase, we were not given any of this information or given an opportunity to review the fine print that is conveniently located on the back of the paper receipt. The receipt says in bold print one thing (shipping additional, etc.) but were told that no, that is not correct, the price I am quoting you is the total amount (per the captain on the boat). I then looked into this company, this is their scam, they steal thousands of dollars from people who get told one thing and then the company says no, we want more money and more money and oh by the way, you signed this agreement. It is a huge scam, unethical, unprofessional and should be illegal.

  Business Response

  Date: 06/18/2025

  We are currently trying to contact Mrs. ****** to provide an amicable resolution.

  Customer Answer

  Date: 06/18/2025

  I have not heard anything from this business to reach a reasonable solution. They have my email, they have previously used this when this issue first came up.  I have not heard anything from them, therefore I do not believe they are really trying to contact me, they are just saying this to the BBB for my complaint to go away.  

  Customer Answer

  Date: 06/18/2025

   
  Complaint: 23449830
  
  I am rejecting this response because: I have not heard anything from this business to reach a reasonable solution. They have my email, they have previously used this when this issue first came up.  I have not heard anything from them, therefore I do not believe they are really trying to contact me, they are just saying this to the BBB for my complaint to go away.
  
  Sincerely,
  
  ****** ******

  Business Response

  Date: 07/09/2025

  Emailed with customer and came to agreement for 50% refund and it was processed on 6/30

  Customer Answer

  Date: 07/09/2025

   
  Better Business Bureau:
  
  I have reviewed the response made by the business in reference to complaint ID ********, and find that this resolution is acceptable.  Not ideal, but will accept it. 
  
  Sincerely,
  
  ****** ******

• Initial Complaint

  Date:04/02/2025

  Type:Product Issues
  Status:

  AnsweredMore info

  Complaint statuses

  Resolved:

  The complainant verified the issue was resolved to their satisfaction.

  Unresolved:

  The business responded to the dispute but failed to make a good faith effort to resolve it.

  Answered:

  The business addressed the issues within the complaint, but the consumer either a) did not accept the response, OR b) did not notify BBB as to their satisfaction.

  Unanswered:

  The business failed to respond to the dispute.

  Unpursuable:

  BBB is unable to locate the business.

  $690 deposit was given. Falsification of information was given by company representatives in order to make a sale. Was told it would be $1600 and then was given an invoice for $2700 . I was told deposit was given to start the process. Per email I received from company my mount process had not been started. They then tried to make me pay in full before the mounting process had begun.

  Business Response

  Date: 04/11/2025

   

  Gray Taxidermy is currently celebrating 60 years in business and strives for 100% customer satisfaction. We work with third party independent contractors all over the world. In an effort to protect our customers as well as ourselves, especially in a foreign market, we use a contract that clearly defines terms and conditions on the front side in bold print and requires two signatures. It is imperative for consumers to read a contract before they sign. i have attached Mr. ******* contract for your review. It clearly states mount price, deposit and balance. Next to that crating charge up to 24% of mount price, Sales tax where applicable, Payments to be in U.S. dollars, below that Shipping, crating or deliveries not included in mount price. Directly above Mr ******* first signature it says Gray Taxidermy, Inc. will not honor any oral representation. All terms and conditions of the contract between parties must be in writing in a form acceptable to Gray Taxidermy, Inc.. Doing business in a foreign market Gray Taxidermy **** incurs expenses as soon as order is turned in and initial deposit made. Production begins immediately. The invoicing that Mr. ***** receives does not say that it has not been started but instead says that his mount cannot be completed until final payment is made. All of this being said Gray Taxidermy **** worked diligently for an amicable resolution and went as far as to honor the $200 crating and shipping charge he was quoted by the independent contractor. Mr. ***** agreed to this only to call back the next day to try and cancel again.  

  Customer Answer

  Date: 04/22/2025

   
  Complaint: 23151952
  
  I am rejecting this response because:  they stated that production and expense begins immediately after the deposit is sent in.  However, in multiple email responses it was stated that production would not begin until the final payment was paid.   This was false not only by their representatives in ******, but by their customer service agents.   A company who does not honor what their representatives are giving, is no real company.  They are simply scamming people out of deposits, by having there sales **** give false information.  Based on many other reviews, I am not the first ****** to fall victim to this scam.  They should not be allowed to conduct business outside of th U.S.
  
  Sincerely,
  
  **** *****

  Business Response

  Date: 05/01/2025

  Expenses are incurred and the production process begins immediately; the trophy will not be "completed" until it is paid in full including shipping. Customer needs to refer to the invoice they received in the mail as well as the terms and conditions on the backside of contract.

• Initial Complaint

  Date:02/26/2025

  Type:Service or Repair Issues
  Status:

  AnsweredMore info

  Complaint statuses

  Resolved:

  The complainant verified the issue was resolved to their satisfaction.

  Unresolved:

  The business responded to the dispute but failed to make a good faith effort to resolve it.

  Answered:

  The business addressed the issues within the complaint, but the consumer either a) did not accept the response, OR b) did not notify BBB as to their satisfaction.

  Unanswered:

  The business failed to respond to the dispute.

  Unpursuable:

  BBB is unable to locate the business.

  This company lies and takes full advantage of Americans fishing in ******. While we were deep sea fishing in ****, we caught 2 large ******. its important to note that the company took full advantage of an urgent situation (the fishs life). They advised us that they had to be killed in order to be stuffed and mounted. We were not given the choice to release the fish. Then we were forced to sign these forms AFTER we got to the dock, where we learned that instead of stuffing the fish, we actually would receive a porcelain replica. They lied to us, killed innocent fish, and then kept 90% of the fish meat to sell separately (they told us it would be impossible to ship it home). Then they charged a deposit after telling us it would cost $2000 plus a boxing/shipping fee around $500 - they proceeded to bill us an additional $3000 (total > $3800) after we were told the total would cost around $2500. The contract is fraud and therefore void.

  Business Response

  Date: 03/10/2025

  I reviewed the customers complaint and as luck has it I am the person who personally dealt with them after they returned to **********. First the captain and mate on the boat they fished on ARE NOT employees of Gray taxidermy. Whatever they discussed on the boat at sea regarding harvesting or releasing the fish was between them. We do NOT require the real fish in order to make a replica trophy. We require as stated by the customer to have all contracts signed back at the dock instead of out at sea where our employee can assist them in writing the order and reviewing the order which was signed in two places  by the customer. I attached a copy of the order to this response. The order clearly states that crating, shipping, insurance and delivery are NOT included in the mount price and that crating will be up to 24% of the mount price. It also says that the fish may be released and that the mount will be a fiberglass replica of the same size and species caught. Again what the captain and customer arranged for the meat of the fish out at sea or anytime, has nothing to do with Gray taxidermy. Once the customers returned home, I sent them an email with the different ways the fish can be mounted. They each chose a custom wood background and engraved plate. These are considered upgrades that carried a cost of $795 each which they both agreed to. I suggested shipping both mounts to one location so I could save them money on crating and shipping which they both thought was a great idea. I reduced the cost of crating and insurance to 18% and saved each customer $200 by shipping them in the same crate to one location. The custom wood background's are NOT required but that is what they chose which increases the overall cost. If they want to reduce the cost of their trophies, they can eliminate the custom background's. I have given them every other reduction I could to make this more affordable for each of them. What their complaint stated was factually incorrect. If they had taken the time to review the contract before they signed it they would have known the fish was a fiberglass replica and not a skin mount and could have decided at that time if they wanted to move forward or not. If you need any other information, please let me know.

  Customer Answer

  Date: 03/10/2025

   
  Complaint: 22995694
  
  I am rejecting this response because:

  This company acts in bad faith and lies to its customers. The contract is factually incorrect and does not represent the agreement that was made. 
  First the captain and mate on the boat they fished on ARE NOT employees of Gray taxidermy. Whatever they discussed on the boat at sea regarding harvesting or releasing the fish was between them. 
  The staff on the boat wore Gray taxidermy gear and acted as employees or representatives of the company (please see photos) so this is false advertising. They told us if we want to stuff the fish then it must be killed and proceeded to kill the fish. 
  
  We do NOT require the real fish in order to make a replica trophy. We require as stated by the customer to have all contracts signed back at the dock instead of out at sea where our employee can assist them in writing the order and reviewing the order which was signed in two places  by the customer. 
  We were falsely told that the real fish would be stuffed and this was advised to us BEFORE coming back to the dock. It was too late to release that fish obviously , therefore the contract is breached as we did not have a choice. 
  
  
  I attached a copy of the order to this response. The order clearly states that crating, shipping, insurance and delivery are NOT included in the mount price and that crating will be up to 24% of the mount price. yes the contract says the crating and shipping would not be included,  and we were told the total an estimate of $2500 total. That is not $3800. 
  
  It also says that the fish may be released and that the mount will be a fiberglass replica of the same size and species caught.

  This contract was presented to us AFTER the fish was killed. Again, invalid contract and false advertising. 
  

  the contract also lists the incorrect type of fish - we did not catch any striped ******. 
  

  I will not accept a response less than a full refund as this company has been extremely volatile to work with and has lied every step of the process. 
  
  Sincerely,
  
  ******* *******

  Business Response

  Date: 03/21/2025

  Gray Taxidermy Contracts are used to protect the consumers as well as ourselves. It is imperative that customers do their due diligence and read their contracts especially in a foreign market where a language barrier may exist. Our contract on file for this complaint, clearly states our terms and conditions, if anything on contract is different from what the customer was told they should not move forward, signing the contract in two places and give their credit card information. Our contract clearly states fish may be released and a complete replica trophy obtained. Mount to be a fiberglass replica molded from the same size and species as fish caught and finished on one side unless otherwise noted on this contract . Most importantly "GRAY TAXIDERMY, INC. will not honor any oral representation. All terms and conditions of the contract between parties must be in writing in a form acceptable to Gray Taxidermy, Inc. We have made significant reductions in both crating and shipping costs in an attempt for an amicable resolution and have removed the agreed upon additional wood plaque.

  Customer Answer

  Date: 03/26/2025

   
  Complaint: 22995694
  
  I am rejecting this response because:

  Referring To the contract attached by the business, the contract reflects a balance due of $1223. This includes the mounting cost per the contract. Later, the company proceeded to tell us we owe $3047 MORE on top of the $847 deposit (attached). 

  Therefore the company is not respecting the contract and did not disclose the additional $2000 cost of crating and shipping. We, the customers, signed and agreed to a total cost of $2070 toward which the deposit was applied. This contract is not being honored by the company and therefore the deposit needs to be refunded as we would no longer like to move forward with a breached contract / fake fish after the company forced us to kill an innocent animal for no reason.  

  Also, now that we have provided a picture of the boat staff wearing grey taxidermy , allegedly the company was lying yet again about being affiliated with them. The staff on the boat represented the Grey taxidermy company whether it was intentional or not. They very clearly explained that the fish would be killed and stuffed. 

  The contract was presented to us AFTER the fish was killed therefore we were not given the option to release the fish. The contract shouldve been presented to the clients before the boat ever left the ******* in the event that a ****** is caught.   

  We have gone to extensive lengths to work this out directly with the company in good faith, and now through BBB as they are not cooperative.
  Our lawyer would be happy to contact the company if thats what it takes to get a refund of our deposit, as the contract is not valid and this company is operating under poor ethical standards.
  
  Sincerely,
  
  ******* *******

  Business Response

  Date: 04/03/2025

  Please see previously attached contract. It clearly states mount price, deposit and balance-next to that it says crating charge up to 24% of the mount price and sales tax where applicable, below that in BOLD letters SHIPPING, CRATING, OR DELIVERIES NOT INCLUDED IN MOUNT PRICE. The customer also added an optional wood plaque for $795. We made significant reductions in both crating and shipping charges and they can remove the additional wood plaque and their balance would be considerably less. They are more than welcome to pick up their trophy fish here and not pay any crating or shipping but we cannot crate and ship their product for free or pay the taxes for their state.

• Initial Complaint

  Date:01/23/2025

  Type:Product Issues
  Status:

  AnsweredMore info

  Complaint statuses

  Resolved:

  The complainant verified the issue was resolved to their satisfaction.

  Unresolved:

  The business responded to the dispute but failed to make a good faith effort to resolve it.

  Answered:

  The business addressed the issues within the complaint, but the consumer either a) did not accept the response, OR b) did not notify BBB as to their satisfaction.

  Unanswered:

  The business failed to respond to the dispute.

  Unpursuable:

  BBB is unable to locate the business.

  On December 23, 2024 we caught a large ******. The representative from Gray Taxidermy met us at the dock and offered to mount it for us. The quoted price was ~$2000 with half deposit (non refundable). After returning from the dock, I read the fine print that didn't match at all what she described. I called her to discuss and left a voicemail, but she never returned it. After reviewing the webpage, I contacted the company, but waited for almost a week for a response. In the meantime, I received an invoice for ~$2500 (which included a crating fee). After finally talking with someone from the company, the revised the quote to $5000-6000 depending on the base. When I asked for an invoice, he simple stated "pay me and I will send a receipt". However, that does show at all what I am getting from the money. Ultimately, he emailed me a rough cost breakdown, but no real description of what I would be getting. The information on their website about the product is false and misleading. They do not have a mold of our fish, nor do they even have a picture of it. It is totally bait and switch - no pun intended. They also claim to have A+ BBB rating, when your site shows C+.

  Business Response

  Date: 01/23/2025

  Gray Taxidermy does not currently have an order for a ***** *******, we do currently have an A+ rating showing today 1/23/25. Mr. ******* placed his order through another company, and we encourage him to contact them to file any type of formal complaint.

  Customer Answer

  Date: 01/24/2025

   
  Complaint: 22849262
  
  I am rejecting this response because:

  This response is just another example of how shady this process has been.  I've attached the email from Gray Taxidermy that discusses my order.  I've even had multiple email conversations with them about my experience and they acknowledged that I complained to BBB.

  I will reiterate that this experience started with the boat captain pushing Gray Taxidermy from the moment we caught the fish.  The saleswoman then hops on the boat when we arrive at the dock.  What she describes is nothing like what is written in the contract.  She already has the credit card info before she gives the contract.  (Yes, this is my fault but it is not a good way to do business.)  Then she disappeared.  Upon reviewing the contract, I called but it goes straight to voicemail and she did not return the call as requested.  The Gray Taxidermy storefront at the ****** is also not staffed.  I then visited the website, which is indeed under a different name, but is redirected to Gray Taxidermy.  It's also not the impression that I got from reading the website which, e.g., shows replica fish alongside the actual fish that match.   

  When finally contacted by Gray Taxidermy, the individual was mostly upfront.  We talked about options and he quote a price.  I asked if we would be sent an invoice and he said that I could just pay him and he would send me a receipt.  I was not going to do this, since I had already been bitten by this once.  He didn't send an invoice until I requested it via email (and later acknowledged in email that they don't normally provide one).  At this point, I decided that didn't want to spend more money with Gray Taxidermy and felt I needed to share the experience with BBB.

  The whole process is shady and lacks transparency.  Since they don't use the actual fish anyway, why not be honest instead of hiding behind the fine print (and a shell company)?  Maybe provide a brochure of options and then contact us to discuss what is actually going to happen, instead of expecting someone to read the fine print on the back of a contract and demanding a deposit onsite?

  
  Sincerely,
  
  ***** *******

  Business Response

  Date: 01/24/2025

  *** ******* order is with ATLANTIC TAXIDERMY not GRAY TAXIDERMY- and needs to file accordingly

  Customer Answer

  Date: 01/24/2025

   
  Complaint: 22849262
  
  I am rejecting this response because:

  I have had no correspondence from anyone from an Atlantic Taxidermy.  This is who I have been corresponding with:

  *** ******
  ************************** | **********************************
   
  Direct: ************
  712 N.W. 12th Ave.
  ***********************

  I've attached a screenshot of emails that all say Gray Taxidermy - even referencing the BBB complaint.

  
  
  Sincerely,
  
  ***** *******

  Business Response

  Date: 01/24/2025

  Atlantic Taxidermy is newly acquired affiliate of Gray Taxidermy but separate company, which is why we asked again for him to file a complaint accordingly. Mr. ******* originally emailed Gray Taxidermy with his complaint not Atlantic Taxidermy, which caused a delay in communication. In an effort to ease this process-An associate from **** was instructed to help Mr. ******** I have attached his contract, there is nothing hidden in fine print. It clearly states in bold lettering that SHIPPING, CRATING, OR DELIVERY CHARGES NOT INCLUDED IN MOUNT PRICE. Below that again in bold lettering Mr. ********* contract states Mount is to be fiberglass replica molded from the same size and species as fish caught and finished on one side unless otherwise noted in this contract. The biggest bold print on the front of the contract clearly states DEPOSIT NOT REFUNDABLE where Mr. ******* signed the first time before signing again to authorize use of the card. These contracts serve to protect the consumer as well as the company doing business. It is imperative as a responsible consumer to review any contract before signing. Moving forward Mr. ******* chose to upgrade his one sided wall mount  to a two sided free standing mount on a custom cabinet base, thus increasing his cost significantly. This was a voluntary upgrade on his part and all pricing disclosed. The representative gave him the exact breakdown in an email and if Mr. ******* authorized, the representative would send a final zeroed out official receipt/invoice, since the original invoice that was mailed out 12/27 when the order was entered would not be current. A formal invoice was sent immediately when he was not satisfied with the email breakdown.

  Business Response

  Date: 01/24/2025

  Mr. ******* has several options. He can complete his order as a single side wall mount as stated on the front of the contract and we are willing to make reductions in crating and shipping. He may complete it with current upgrades and again we are willing to make concessions in the crating and shipping of the product. He also may cancel and lose his deposit, although we would honor it the future if he wished to proceed.

• Initial Complaint

  Date:12/02/2024

  Type:Service or Repair Issues
  Status:

  ResolvedMore info

  Complaint statuses

  Resolved:

  The complainant verified the issue was resolved to their satisfaction.

  Unresolved:

  The business responded to the dispute but failed to make a good faith effort to resolve it.

  Answered:

  The business addressed the issues within the complaint, but the consumer either a) did not accept the response, OR b) did not notify BBB as to their satisfaction.

  Unanswered:

  The business failed to respond to the dispute.

  Unpursuable:

  BBB is unable to locate the business.

  In late October 2023, I went fishing with a company that partners with Gray Taxidermy for their taxidermy needs. Once you catch a fish, they offer to have it taxidermed for you by their partner, Gray Taxidermy. After measuring the length of the fish, they pulled out a fixed pricing sheet and told me I would have to pay $1,000 for a non-refundable deposit, and then an additional $1,100 once the fish ships to me, for an all in total price of $2,100. A couple weeks later, a sales representative from Gray Taxidermy reached out to confirm shipping address and inquire if I would like to add a special mount/case for extra money. I declined. The salesman then proceeded to tell me I owe an additional $2k for shipping, crafting, and other fees - not the additional $1,100 as I was initially told. He said I must have been given bad information, and he'll see what he can do. However, after reading their reviews on other sites like ****** and Yelp, this is not just "bad information", this is part of their business plan it appears, as many other customers have experienced the same thing. He attempted to resolved the problem by telling me he could take off $274 from the final price, resulting in owing an extra ~$700 from what I was told. Completely unacceptable business practice, and no consumer should be asked to make a non-refundable deposit, and then lied to about final pricing.

  Business Response

  Date: 01/20/2025

  Gray Taxidermy spoke to the customer. We went over the contract with him, where it states crating, shipping and deliveries not included. Crating charge up ****% of the mount price. We made reductions in pricing to accommodate him and set up a payment plan with the customer. His trophy is currently in production.

  Customer Answer

  Date: 01/21/2025

   
  Better Business Bureau:
  
  I have reviewed the response made by the business in reference to complaint ID ********, and find that this resolution is satisfactory to me.
  
  Sincerely,
  
  ***** *******

• Initial Complaint

  Date:09/30/2024

  Type:Product Issues
  Status:

  ResolvedMore info

  Complaint statuses

  Resolved:

  The complainant verified the issue was resolved to their satisfaction.

  Unresolved:

  The business responded to the dispute but failed to make a good faith effort to resolve it.

  Answered:

  The business addressed the issues within the complaint, but the consumer either a) did not accept the response, OR b) did not notify BBB as to their satisfaction.

  Unanswered:

  The business failed to respond to the dispute.

  Unpursuable:

  BBB is unable to locate the business.

  Feb 2024 I took my daughter to ******, we went deep sea fishing for 1 year anniversary of her dad's death! This was a huge trip for her! One her dad always wanted to take her on but never got the chance! She reeled in (at 5 months pregnant) a trophy sail fish! Because of the sentiment sounding this we decided to have it sent to the taxidermist recommended by our fishing guides! Grays Taxidermy! All went well with the transaction up to delivery! The fish arrived damaged! We contacted ******... they assured us we were fully covered & they would make and ship up (to ******) another fish! I had a lengthy conversation with ****** regarding packing for the 2nd fish! I requested more padding and better stabilization, to which they refused & told me the fish would be fine in shipping. Low & behold the 2nd fish shows up... damaged again! They are now offering a $300 reimbursement & want us to send it to a taxidermist near us for repairs! Have you ever tried to move a 7ft sailfish??? The costs incurred to move it not to mention the repairs is well over $300. We have now asked for a full *************** is ignoring my contact efforts! Said it's been sent to a manager.... no contact or replies!

  Business Response

  Date: 10/25/2024

   

   

  Customer was refunded all of their money on 10/1/24

  Customer Answer

  Date: 10/25/2024

   
  Better Business Bureau:
  
  I have reviewed the response made by the business in reference to complaint ID ********, and find that this resolution is satisfactory to me.
  
  Sincerely,
  
  **** ****

• Initial Complaint

  Date:09/10/2024

  Type:Service or Repair Issues
  Status:

  ResolvedMore info

  Complaint statuses

  Resolved:

  The complainant verified the issue was resolved to their satisfaction.

  Unresolved:

  The business responded to the dispute but failed to make a good faith effort to resolve it.

  Answered:

  The business addressed the issues within the complaint, but the consumer either a) did not accept the response, OR b) did not notify BBB as to their satisfaction.

  Unanswered:

  The business failed to respond to the dispute.

  Unpursuable:

  BBB is unable to locate the business.

  Went deep sea fishing in ****** Aug 2024. Mexicans were wearing Greys taxidermy shirts. The staff told us that they would only kill a fish and bring it onboard if we would have it mounted. At the end of the trip, they handed us a slip that said non refundable deposit on it and would not dock the boat until we finished our paperwork. They told us the fish would be shipped to Greys Taxidermy in **. . I called Greys Taxidermy when we got back and they stated the fish had arrived and asked me if knew what type of mount and how I wanted our fish facing. When I called to place the final order and pay the remainder is when I found out we had been misguided. The fish were never shipped to *******, Greys taxidermy told us that was illegal and they are not responsible for what the Mexicans told us on a boat in alligator infested waters in a third world country. They said they make fiberglass replicas. So why do they call themselves a Taxidermy company? Maybe would have been fine with a fiberglass replica if we werent mislead. So what was our deposit for? The company said it was for making the molds. But that is contradictory to another conversation I had with ***** where he explained how in the past they made as many molds possible from as many species of fish, in different sizes, and facing different ways. Which he ended up telling me after I asked that the tarpon be facing to the right with the tail higher than the head and his response was we dont have tarpon molds facing to the right.So the deposit was not to ship the fish or to make the molds. The original quote in ****** was around $3k for both fish, but turns out it was going to be closer to $6k after crating, shipping, and picking out the mounts. We reached out to the company to tell them that we were unsatisfied. We asked them to make it right by using the two deposits we made for $1601 and just apply it to the tarpon so at least it would not be a total waste. The company refused.

  Business Response

  Date: 09/10/2024

  Customer was refunded both deposits on 9/6/2024

  Customer Answer

  Date: 09/11/2024

  I have attached photos of our **************** transactions. Grays Taxidermy originally charged $1601 for a deposit on 8/20/24. They have not returned this deposit.

  Additional charges were made on 9/4/24 for $4791, these charges were refunded once we realized what had happened. 
  

  Greys Taxidermy still has our $1601 deposit and has stated multiple times it is non refundable and they dont care what we were told on a boat in ****** in alligator and shark infested waters or that we were intimidated to sign a non refundable deposit that didnt actually have to be signed right then and there because they never intended in shipping the fish back to the US or intended to use the fish to make an actual replica. Its a scam to acquire new customers. We dont expect ***** to do the right thing, we just want to prevent any other Americans from being deceived and taken advantage of. 
  

  ***** also refused to apply our $1601 non refundable deposit toward just the Tarpon (which totaled $1155). 

  Customer Answer

  Date: 09/11/2024

   
  Complaint: 22264328
  
  I am rejecting this response because:

  I have attached photos of our **************** transactions. Grays Taxidermy originally charged $1601 for a deposit on 8/20/24. They have not returned this deposit.

  Additional charges were made on 9/4/24 for $4791, these charges were refunded once we realized what had happened. 
  

  Greys Taxidermy still has our $1601 deposit and has stated multiple times it is non refundable and they dont care what we were told on a boat in ****** in alligator and shark infested waters or that we were intimidated to sign a non refundable deposit that didnt actually have to be signed right then and there because they never intended in shipping the fish back to the US or intended to use the fish to make an actual replica. Its a scam to acquire new customers. We dont expect ***** to do the right thing, we just want to prevent any other Americans from being deceived and taken advantage of. 
  

  ***** also refused to apply our $1601 non refundable deposit toward just the Tarpon (which totaled $1155).

  
  
  Sincerely,
  
  *********************

  Business Response

  Date: 09/19/2024

   

  Customer requested refund which we provided-it is unexplainable why the customer rejected previous response

  Customer Answer

  Date: 09/19/2024

   
  Better Business Bureau:
  
  I have reviewed the response made by the business in reference to complaint ID ********, and find that this resolution is satisfactory to me.
  

  Grays Taxidermy refunded the initial nonrefundable deposit made August 17th in the amount of $1601. This refund was not process until 9/10 which was after the last message was received where they falsely stated the refund had already been issued. 
  
  Sincerely,
  
  *********************