American Samoa’s fishing industry is a vital part of its economy and culture, with tuna—particularly skipjack, yellowfin, and albacore—being the top fish catches. The territory’s waters are rich in pelagic species, making it a hub for both local and commercial fishing, especially for the tuna canning industry. The history of fishing in American Samoa dates back centuries, with traditional methods practiced by indigenous Samoans, but the modern industry grew rapidly in the 20th century with the establishment of major tuna canneries in Pago Pago. Today, American Samoa remains one of the largest tuna processing centers in the Pacific, exporting canned tuna globally and supporting thousands of local jobs, while also facing challenges from changing fish stocks and international regulations.
Rank | Fish Species | Metric Tons |
---|---|---|
1 | Marine fishes nei | 1,076 |
2 | Yellowfin tuna | 148 |
3 | Skipjack tuna | 40 |
4 | Bigeye tuna | 18 |
5 | Wahoo | 14 |
6 | Black marlin | 6 |
7 | Swordfish | 3 |
8 | Blue marlin | 2 |
9 | Common dolphinfish | 1 |
9 | Ember parrotfish | 1 |
Data from FAO. 2025. Global Capture Production. In: Fisheries and Aquaculture.