Narrator Peter Gladding of Key West, Florida was a commercial fisherman at the time of the interview.
 

Blondel Handcock is a seasoned fisherman with a rich history in the industry. Handcock has spent a significant portion of his life in the fishing industry, with his career spanning from 1976 to 1978. His experiences have not only been confined to his birthplace, but he also had the opportunity to work in Europe. Handcock's expertise in the field is evident in his detailed knowledge of fishing practices and the industry's dynamics. He has a deep understanding of the value of certain fishing practices and the implications of not adhering to them.

Bob Holston and Cecelia Raycroft are long-time residents of the Florida Keys, with a deep connection to the local marine environment. Bob Holston, a former Navy serviceman, has been diving since the early 1970s. After leaving the Navy in 1972, he opened a dive shop, which has been his primary occupation ever since. His experience in the Navy and subsequent years of diving have given him a wealth of knowledge about the local marine ecosystems and the challenges they face. Cecelia Raycroft, on the other hand, has lived in the Keys her entire life, which spans over forty-four years.

John Koenig is a long-time resident of the Florida Keys with extensive experience on the waters surrounding the archipelago. His life has been deeply intertwined with the marine environment, giving him a unique and personal perspective on the ecological changes that have occurred over the years. Koenig's firsthand knowledge comes from years of direct interaction with the marine ecosystem, particularly through fishing, which has been both a passion and a way of life for him.