The Mission:

The Florida Institute for Saltwater Heritage "FISH" is a non-profit, grassroots organization established in 1991.

FISH is dedicated to the preservation of the heritage of Florida's traditional Gulf Coast maritime communities.

Its mission is diverse; to assist in the operation of a museum site within the historic village of Cortez, Florida; to conduct research and assist in collecting, preserving and interpreting the culture and folk-life of Florida's traditional Gulf Coast maritime communities and the commercial fisheries of Florida; to promote public awareness and support for protection of the marine resources and fisheries industry of Florida, and to preserve traditional maritime skills and values.