Belgium and Luxembourg, though small in size and with limited coastlines and inland water resources, have modest but notable fishing industries. Belgium’s fishing sector is primarily marine-based, focusing on the North Sea, with top catches including plaice, sole, shrimp (especially the famous North Sea grey shrimp), cod, and herring. The Belgian fishing fleet, historically centered in ports like Zeebrugge and Ostend, has seen a decline since its peak in the early 20th century due to stricter EU quotas and modernization, but it remains an important cultural and economic activity. In contrast, Luxembourg, being landlocked, has a minor fishing industry centered around freshwater angling in rivers such as the Moselle and Sûre, with catches like trout, pike, and perch. Recreational fishing dominates in Luxembourg, and both countries place increasing emphasis on sustainable practices and conservation to preserve their aquatic resources.
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Data from FAO. 2025. Global Capture Production. In: Fisheries and Aquaculture.