Commercial Fishing Heritage

Commerical Fishing Heritage.

Did you know that the Fort Myers Beach Shrimping fleet is the largest commercial fishing fleet in the Gulf of Mexico? Shrimping, known as "Pink Gold", contributes millions of dollars to our economy.

Here is your chance to learn first hand about the San Carlos Island Commercial Fishing Fleet.

The Ostego Bay Foundation Marine Science Center offers a Three-Hour Guided Tour. The cost for the Tour is $20 per adult and $10 for children over 6 years of age. Tour includes an interprettive presentation by our local historian and Florida Master Naturalist on the evolution of the San Carlos Commercial Fishing Industry, the discovery of the Florida Pink Shrimp and todays challenges to the industry. Also featured is a short video by the Southern Shrimp Alliance on how a shrimp boat works. Then, onto the Working Waterfront. You'll enjoy seeing Erickson & Jensen Seafood Packers, Supply House, Net Shop, Trico Seafood Market and unloading dock. See how the boats are unloaded, how the trawl doors are built, shrimp nets being hand-sewn and other important factors used in this unique industry. After visiting the docks, the tour continues to the Science Center for even more local knowledge and understating of the cultural aspects of our environment. Bring your camera for a memorable experience! Every Wednesday morning in season weather permitting, tour size is limited following CDC guidelines.