Antigua and Barbuda’s fishing industry is a vital part of its coastal economy and culture, with artisanal and small-scale commercial fishing dominating the sector. The country’s top fish catches include spiny lobster (Panulirus argus), queen conch (Strombus gigas), snapper, grouper, and various pelagic species such as mahi-mahi (dolphinfish), wahoo, and tuna. Traditionally, fishing in Antigua and Barbuda has been practiced using small boats and simple gear, with generations of fishers relying on the rich surrounding Caribbean waters. Over the years, the industry has faced challenges such as overfishing and hurricanes but remains crucial for local food security and export, particularly with lobster and conch being significant export earners. The government has implemented regulations and marine management strategies to ensure sustainability and the continued prosperity of this historic industry.
| Rank | Fish Species | Metric Tons |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Stromboid conchs nei | 1,600 |
| 2 | Snappers, jobfishes nei | 340 |
| 3 | Caribbean spiny lobster | 285 |
| 4 | Marine fishes nei | 200 |
| 5 | Groupers, seabasses nei | 165 |
| 6 | Surgeonfishes nei | 155 |
| 7 | Grunts, sweetlips nei | 130 |
| 8 | Triggerfishes, durgons nei | 120 |
| 9 | Parrotfishes nei | 55 |
| 11 | Sharks, rays, skates, etc. nei | 25 |
| 11 | Tuna-like fishes nei | 25 |
| 11 | Common dolphinfish | 25 |
| 14 | Red lionfish | 20 |
| 14 | Boxfishes nei | 20 |
| 14 | Carangids nei | 20 |
| 14 | Angelfishes nei | 20 |
| 17 | Squirrelfishes nei | 15 |
| 18 | Filefishes, leatherjackets nei | 10 |
Data from FAO. 2025. Global Capture Production. In: Fisheries and Aquaculture.