We Fish For You
We are a non-profit organization formed to promote fresh, high quality, domestic fish. Over the years we have worked hard to enhance the image of the American fisherman.
About Us
S.O.F.A. is a non-profit organization dedicated to promoting fresh, high-quality, sustainably sourced domestic seafood across the Gulf of America. Our mission is to support local fishermen, preserve marine resources, and ensure that future generations can enjoy the bounty of our waters.
We proudly partner with state and federal agencies, environmental organizations, and community groups to protect the Gulf of America, keeping its waters clean, ecosystems healthy, and fisheries thriving.
Partner With S.O.F.A.
Our Business Partnership Program offers a range of year-round benefits, providing businesses of all sizes the opportunity to support sustainable fishing while gaining valuable exposure within the community. We offer customized sponsorship packages to meet your business objectives, with affordable starter packages available to get you involved right away.
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SUSTAINABILITY
Highlighting marine conservation and responsible fishing practices. -
ADVOCACY
Keeping this term for representing the fishermen’s voice. -
INNOVATION
Retain to show forward-thinking solutions in fisheries management.
Join Our Association
The Southern Offshore Fishermen’s Association (S.O.F.A.) is more than an organization of commercial fishermen. We’re a community of dedicated fishermen, seafood suppliers, restaurant owners, scientists, conservationists, local businesses, and supporters united by one goal:
To protect the future of commercial fishing, preserve our marine resources, and ensure that fresh, locally caught seafood remains available to our communities for generations to come.
By joining S.O.F.A., you become part of a collective voice advocating for fair fisheries regulations, sustainable fishing practices, and the hardworking men and women who bring fresh seafood from our waters to your table.
Whether you’re a commercial fisherman, a seafood industry professional, a local business owner, or simply someone who believes in supporting American-caught seafood, there’s a place for you at S.O.F.A.
Together, we’re protecting our fisheries, supporting local businesses, and keeping the tradition of commercial fishing alive.
Join S.O.F.A. Today — Help Protect Our Fishing Future
Who We Are
The Southern Offshore Fishing Association (S.O.F.A.) stands at the forefront of protecting American fishermen, healthy fisheries, and the future of the Gulf of America’s fishing industry.
S.O.F.A. actively represents fishermen before state and federal fisheries managers, advocating for fair regulations, reliable science, sustainable access, and responsible management of our marine resources.
From protecting grouper and reef fisheries to addressing changing regulations and management decisions, we work to ensure the voices of working fishermen and coastal communities are heard.
Board of Directors
Strong Leadership. A United Voice. A Future Worth Protecting.
Every successful voyage begins with experienced leadership and a clear course.
The Southern Offshore Fishermen’s Association (S.O.F.A.) is guided by a dedicated Board of Directors who bring decades of experience in commercial fishing, fisheries management, and industry advocacy.
These men and women understand the challenges facing our fishing communities because they’ve lived them. From the docks to fisheries management council meetings, they work tirelessly to protect the livelihoods of commercial fishermen, advocate for fair and science-based regulations, and preserve our fishing heritage.
Meet the leaders charting the course for the future of commercial fishing.
President
V.P.
V.P. & Secretary
Treasurer
Fishery Management Consultant
Partnership
At the Southern Offshore Fishing Association (S.O.F.A.), our events bring together fishermen, business partners, conservation advocates, and community members who share one goal: preserving the Gulf of America’s fishing heritage.
Our Story
SOFA is working for you!
SOFA has been working on a serious issue that can affect all fishing sectors. The National Marine Fisheries Service is instituting a new recreational data effort survey. The old survey was conducted by using a random digit phone dialing service sampling coastal county households. The new survey is done by USPS mail. The new mail survey has been accepted as the “best” by the NMFS.
Our Story
Protecting Florida’s Commercial Fishing Heritage Since 1977
Nearly 50 Years of Advocacy, Community, and Commitment to American Fishermen.
The Southern Offshore Fishing Association (S.O.F.A.) was established in Madeira Beach, Florida, in 1977 by members of the local commercial fishing community who understood the importance of protecting their livelihoods, supporting American-caught seafood, and preserving Florida’s working waterfronts.
What began as a gathering of local fishermen grew into an organization representing the interests of commercial fishing families, vessel owners, seafood businesses, and coastal communities.
For nearly five decades, S.O.F.A. has stood for responsible fisheries management, fair regulations, healthy marine resources, and the right of American fishermen to continue their way of life.
Our roots are in Madeira Beach. Our mission reaches across the Gulf.
1977 – Southern Offshore Fishing Association Is Established
On May 10, 1977, the Southern Offshore Fishing Association, Inc. was officially incorporated in Florida.
Founded within Madeira Beach’s commercial fishing community, the association provided a collective voice for fishermen whose businesses and families depended on the Gulf’s marine resources.
Its founding principles centered on promoting domestic seafood, supporting commercial fishermen, and protecting the fishing industry for future generations.
1979 – Helping Launch the John’s Pass Seafood Festival
As changes to local roads threatened businesses around John’s Pass Village, members of S.O.F.A. helped organize a community seafood event to attract visitors and support the working waterfront.
That effort became the John’s Pass Seafood Festival, an enduring part of Madeira Beach’s cultural and commercial fishing heritage.
The festival demonstrated the connection between commercial fishing, local restaurants, tourism, and the surrounding community.
1980s–1990s – Strengthening the Fishing Community
As the commercial fishing industry faced evolving economic pressures, regulations, and waterfront development, S.O.F.A. continued bringing fishermen together to protect their shared interests.
The association maintained its connection to Madeira Beach’s fishing fleet and worked to ensure that commercial fishermen remained an important part of the community’s identity.
2000s – Taking the Fishermen’s Voice to Washington
S.O.F.A.’s advocacy extended beyond the docks and into federal fisheries policy.
Former Executive Director Bob Spaeth testified before the U.S. Senate during consideration of the Magnuson-Stevens Fishery Conservation and Management Act.
His testimony described an association representing approximately 100 commercial fishing vessels and highlighted the economic importance of the Madeira Beach fishing industry.
This national-level advocacy reflected S.O.F.A.’s commitment to ensuring that federal decision-makers heard directly from working fishermen.
2010s – Advocating for Fair, Science-Based Fisheries Management
Throughout a period of changing fisheries management policies, S.O.F.A. continued its mission of supporting sustainable commercial fishing and defending the economic viability of fishing businesses.
The association’s priorities included reliable fisheries science, responsible resource management, fair access to fisheries, and protecting American seafood production.
2022 – Challenging Amendment 53
In 2022, NOAA Fisheries finalized Amendment 53, changing red grouper catch limits and the allocation between commercial and recreational fishing sectors in the Gulf.
S.O.F.A., alongside A.P. Bell Fish Company and the Gulf of Mexico Reef Fish Shareholders’ Alliance, challenged the amendment in federal court.
The legal action raised concerns about fisheries data, allocation decisions, and the economic consequences for commercial fishermen.
2023 – Continuing the Legal Fight
In January 2023, a federal district court upheld the government’s Amendment 53 decision, ruling against the commercial fishing plaintiffs.
Although the ruling represented a setback, the case demonstrated S.O.F.A.’s willingness to pursue legal avenues to challenge policies it believed unfairly affected commercial fishing communities.
2025 – New Leadership and Renewed Advocacy
Longtime commercial fisherman and Madeira Beach boat owner Randy Lauser assumed the role of S.O.F.A. President following his retirement from active fishing.
Born in Clearwater, Florida, Randy brings firsthand industry experience and deep local roots to the organization.
His leadership emphasizes participation in fisheries management council meetings, representation of Gulf commercial fishermen, and strengthening S.O.F.A.’s presence across coastal communities.
In August 2025, NOAA Fisheries also announced increased Gulf red grouper catch limits through emergency action, reflecting updated stock assessment information and ongoing fisheries management changes.
2025 – New Leadership and Renewed Advocacy
Longtime commercial fisherman and Madeira Beach boat owner Randy Lauser assumed the role of S.O.F.A. President following his retirement from active fishing.
Born in Clearwater, Florida, Randy brings firsthand industry experience and deep local roots to the organization.
His leadership emphasizes participation in fisheries management council meetings, representation of Gulf commercial fishermen, and strengthening S.O.F.A.’s presence across coastal communities.
In August 2025, NOAA Fisheries also announced increased Gulf red grouper catch limits through emergency action, reflecting updated stock assessment information and ongoing fisheries management changes.
2026 – Building the Next Chapter
As S.O.F.A. approaches its 50th anniversary, the association is working to strengthen its membership, expand public awareness, and connect consumers more directly with America’s commercial fishing industry.
- SOFA Certified: Developing a seafood sourcing recognition program connecting participating seafood suppliers, restaurants, and consumers.
- Business Partnerships: Building relationships with restaurants, seafood distributors, local businesses, and industry supporters.
- Fishermen’s Resources: Providing information on fisheries regulations, employment opportunities, industry developments, and government resources.
- Legislative Advocacy: Continuing to represent commercial fishing interests before fisheries management councils, regulators, and elected officials.
- Community Education: Helping consumers understand where their seafood comes from and why supporting American commercial fishermen matters.
Our Legacy. Our Future.
Since 1977, S.O.F.A. has been about more than catching fish.
It’s about protecting families, preserving working waterfronts, supporting coastal economies, and ensuring that the next generation has the opportunity to make a living on the water.
Nearly 50 years later, our commitment remains the same: Stand with our fishermen. Protect our fisheries. Preserve our future.
Historical References & Editorial Verification
- Florida Division of Corporations: Southern Offshore Fishing Association, Inc., document no. 738990 (incorporated May 10, 1977).
- NOAA historical fishing-community report: https://www.st.nmfs.noaa.gov/st1/econ/cia/hms.pdf
- NOAA Fisheries, Amendment 53: https://www.fisheries.noaa.gov/action/amendment-53-red-grouper-allocations-and-catch-levels
- Federal district court decision: https://law.justia.com/cases/federal/district-courts/district-of-columbia/dcdce/1%3A2022cv01260/243032/46/
- Before publication, confirm founding-member descriptions, decade-level activities, leadership transition timing, and any 2025 litigation developments with Randy and SOFA records.
Our Supporting Members & Industry Partners
Standing Together for Florida’s Commercial Fishing Future
The Southern Offshore Fishermen’s Association (S.O.F.A.) is proud to recognize the businesses, seafood suppliers, industry professionals, and community partners who stand alongside our commercial fishermen.
Our supporting members play an important role in preserving Florida’s fishing heritage, strengthening our coastal economy, and advocating for fair, science-based fisheries management.
From the fishing docks to local seafood markets and restaurants, these partnerships help ensure that fresh, American-caught seafood remains an important part of our communities for generations to come.
We thank our supporting members for their commitment to protecting our fisheries and supporting the hardworking men and women who make their living on the water.
Become a Supporting Member
Your business can make a difference in the future of Florida’s commercial fishing industry.
Join S.O.F.A. as a supporting member and help us strengthen our advocacy, expand community awareness, and promote locally harvested seafood.
Stand with Fisherman
Protecting Our Fisheries. Defending Our Livelihoods. Preserving Our Future.
Since 1977, the Southern Offshore Fishermen’s Association (S.O.F.A.) has stood alongside the hardworking men and women who bring fresh, American-caught seafood to our tables.
Your donation helps strengthen our voice in fisheries management decisions, advocate for fair and science-based regulations, protect our working waterfronts, and preserve Florida’s commercial fishing heritage.
From the docks of Madeira Beach to the halls of government, S.O.F.A. is committed to ensuring that commercial fishermen have a voice in the decisions affecting their livelihoods.
Every contribution, large or small, helps keep our fishing traditions alive for future generations.
Our Mission & Core Responsibilities
Advocate for Commercial Fishermen
Represent the interests of hardworking fishermen and protect their livelihoods through fair, transparent, and science-based fisheries regulations.
Strengthen Membership & Industry Partnerships
Unite commercial fishermen, seafood suppliers, restaurants, local businesses, and community supporters to build a stronger, more connected fishing industry.
Raise Funds to Protect Our Fishing Future
Secure financial support for fisheries advocacy, industry education, conservation initiatives, and efforts that protect American commercial fishing.
Promote Leadership, Education & Public Awareness
Encourage responsible leadership, open communication, and collaboration among fishermen, scientists, policymakers, and coastal communities.
Our Mission & Core Responsibilities
Our primary purpose is to raise money for litigation to protect commercial fishing quotas. In the process of doing this, you are also entrusted with the responsibility of outreach and education: to make sure that everyone who is impacted by this “reallocation-by-recalibration” understands what happened and how the seafood industry in the Gulf of Mexico (and throughout the country) is coming together to fight it. Whether it is an owner, captain, or deckhand; from the dock workers to the fish houses and processors; restaurants, wholesale and retail markets, even the consumers themselves — everyone should be aware of this battle to reduce public and consumer access and have the opportunity to support it.
Protecting Our Fishermen. Strengthening Our Industry. Preserving Our Future.
- Raise Critical Funds
- Grow Participation
- Foster Positive Communication
- Promote Leadership & Integrity
We are requesting the following entities to support this battle:
- Fish Dealers: Small $250.00
- Restaurants: Small $500.00
- Longline Permit Holders: $1,000.00
- Vertical Line Fishermen: $500.00
- Shareholders: Red Grouper Large $5,000.00 Allocation $.10/LB
- Captains- $100.00
- Seafood Consumer: $25.00
- Deckhands- $50.00
Gallery
Preserving the Stories, People & Traditions of Commercial Fishing
Since 1977, the Southern Offshore Fishermen’s Association (S.O.F.A.) has been dedicated to protecting Florida’s commercial fishing heritage and the hardworking men and women who make their living on the water.
Through the generous support of the Florida Humanities Council and the Island Institute, S.O.F.A. has helped document and preserve the firsthand experiences of commercial fishermen through oral histories, photographs, and video recordings.
These stories offer a unique glimpse into life on the Gulf of America—from generations of family fishing traditions and the challenges of working at sea to the importance of protecting our fisheries and coastal communities.
Our gallery celebrates the people, vessels, working waterfronts, and traditions that have shaped Florida’s commercial fishing industry. Explore our collection and discover the stories behind the seafood that reaches our tables.
Photos
Capturing the people, vessels, historic moments, and everyday experiences that define our commercial fishing communities.
Videos & Oral Histories
Hear directly from the fishermen whose experiences, knowledge, and dedication have helped shape Florida’s fishing heritage.
Have Historic Photos or Fishing Stories to Share?
Help us preserve nearly 50 years of SOFA history. If you have photographs, videos, or personal stories from Florida’s commercial fishing industry, we’d love to hear from you.
Share Your Story | Contact SOFA
Contact Us
Have questions about membership, donations, or upcoming events?
Want to learn more about how you can support the Southern Offshore Fishing Association (S.O.F.A.)?
