On May 26, 1993, Michael Jepson interviewed Mark Taylor for the Vanishing Culture Project in Cortez, Florida. Mark Taylor, a longtime resident of the area, grew up in the fishing community and worked as a commercial fisherman. The interview focuses on Taylor’s extensive knowledge of local fishing grounds, changes in the landscape, and the impact of development on the marine environment. Taylor begins by describing the geography of the region, including waterways such as Wild Irishman’s Cut, Grassy Point, and Ike’s Creek, and their importance for fishing, particularly for mullet. He explains how commercial fishermen relied on these locations for abundant catches but notes that over time, dredging, development, and pollution severely degraded these areas. Taylor discusses the loss of traditional fishing spots like Anna Maria Bayou and Clarke’s Shore due to deep dredging and condominium construction, leading to changes in fish populations and fishing regulations. In addition to environmental concerns, Taylor reflects on the cultural history of the area. He recounts the stories behind place names, such as Price’s Slough and Bird Key, often tied to local characters or activities, including moonshining. Taylor also touches on superstitions held by fishermen, including rituals for avoiding bad luck, and shares anecdotes about encounters with wildlife, such as alligators and rattlesnakes, while fishing.