Cortez Bait & Seafood – Get Fresh Stone Crabs and Seafood Straight from the Suncoast Waters
In the Sarasota and Bradenton area, we are fortunate to have access via a short trip to Cortez Bait & Seafood for the freshest seafood. Additionally, during this time of the year, it is the go-to place for stone crabs fresh from the waters off the Suncoast. Run by James ‘Wyre’ Lee, the initial wood shack that started this traditional fish market has continued to grow in the last few years to the expanded endeavor it is today. The business was started by an avid commercial fisherman who had spent a lifetime on the water, and that passion is seen in the offerings brought to customers daily. Only the highest quality fish, stone crab, and other options are available at Cortez Bait & Seafood.
Cortez Fishing Village is the oldest active fishing village in the country. This rich history is seen in all the offerings you find the second you step foot over the threshold. Depending on the season and offerings, you will have difficulty deciding what looks better, from the ocean-fresh tripletail, tuna, and yellow grouper to the Jumbo Gulf Shrimp and Red Snapper. Of course, fresh stone crabs from water to your table are seasonal favorites available from October through May.
The sustainability of the traditions passed down from generation to generation of fishermen in the village is a beautiful story to continue talking about today. The fishermen are not nine-to-five workers but fishers early to hit the waters until the catch is fully processed into markets and onto consumers’ tables. One of the best things about our communities is the availability of amazing seafood via this fishing village and those that work the waters of the Suncoast. The market also has a wide selection of spices and side dishes you can fix to perfectly complement your next meal.
Whether looking for fresh offerings for your family or a special dinner for guests, stop on to Cortez Bait & Seafood today!
Cortez Fish Market
12110 Cortez Road
Cortez, FL 34215
941 794-1547
HOURS
Monday through Saturday – 10:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m.
Sunday – 11:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
Photos Courtesy of Cortez Bait & Seafood