The Bylaws of the Center state our mission as follows:
- To develop and implement scientific research intended to improve the tools and techniques used by fishery participants and the quality of fisheries data;
- To develop and implement programs and initiatives intended to enhance the opportunities for all fishery sectors to responsibly participate in fisheries;
- To develop and implement programs and initiatives intended to support people and entities that participate in fisheries, including fishermen and their families, fishing-related businesses, fishing communities, counties, and states; and
- To develop and implement programs and initiatives intended to increase the consumption of seafood from responsible fisheries.