Belarus, a landlocked country known for its abundant rivers, lakes, and reservoirs, has a modest but significant freshwater fishing industry. The top fish catches in Belarus primarily include species such as common carp, pike, perch, bream, and zander (pike-perch), with carp and bream being especially prominent in both commercial and recreational fishing. The fishing industry in Belarus has historical roots dating back centuries, with traditional fishing practices evolving alongside the development of collective and state farms during the Soviet era. Today, the industry is focused on both wild catch and aquaculture, supplying local markets and supporting a vibrant recreational fishing community. While not a major exporter, Belarus places emphasis on sustainable management of its aquatic resources, maintaining fish stocks in its numerous water bodies and promoting fishing as an important part of the country’s cultural and economic life.
Rank | Fish Species | Metric Tons |
---|---|---|
1 | Freshwater bream | 153 |
2 | Cyprinids nei | 82 |
3 | Pike-perch | 23 |
4 | Northern pike | 21 |
5 | Roach | 17 |
6 | Tench | 13 |
6 | Wels(=Som) catfish | 13 |
8 | Goldfish | 11 |
9 | European perch | 10 |
10 | Danube crayfish | 4 |
10 | European eel | 4 |
12 | Common carp | 3 |
13 | Freshwater fishes nei | 1 |
13 | Orfe(=Ide) | 1 |
Data from FAO. 2025. Global Capture Production. In: Fisheries and Aquaculture.