The Bahamas boasts one of the Caribbean’s most vibrant fishing industries, renowned for its clear waters and abundant marine life. Historically, fishing has been integral to Bahamian culture and economy, with generations relying on the sea for sustenance and trade. Today, the industry centers around both commercial and sport fishing, with top catches including the prized bonefish, grouper, snapper, and spiny lobster (locally known as crawfish). The deep waters also yield impressive pelagic species such as marlin, mahi-mahi, tuna, and wahoo, attracting anglers from around the world. Sustainable practices and marine conservation efforts have become increasingly important as the Bahamas balances its fishing heritage with the need to protect its rich aquatic resources for future generations.
Rank | Fish Species | Metric Tons |
---|---|---|
1 | Caribbean spiny lobster | 6,996 |
2 | Stromboid conchs nei | 1,831 |
3 | Marine shells nei | 198 |
4 | Black stone crab | 140 |
5 | Nassau grouper | 124 |
6 | Sponges | 21 |
7 | Snappers nei | 14 |
8 | Groupers nei | 13 |
9 | Grunts, sweetlips nei | 3 |
9 | Hogfish | 3 |
11 | Marine fishes nei | 2 |
11 | Triggerfishes, durgons nei | 2 |
13 | Barracudas nei | 1 |
Data from FAO. 2025. Global Capture Production. In: Fisheries and Aquaculture.