Top Chile Fish Catches

Chile’s fishing industry is one of the largest and most productive in the world, thanks to the nutrient-rich waters of the Humboldt Current along its Pacific coastline. The country’s top fish catches include anchoveta (Engraulis ringens), jack mackerel (Trachurus murphyi), and sardine (Sardinops sagax), which are primarily used for fishmeal and export. The industry began to boom in the mid-20th century, especially during the 1950s and 1960s, when technological advances and increased demand led to rapid expansion. Today, Chile remains a global leader in both wild-capture fisheries and aquaculture, with strict regulations and quotas in place to manage fish stocks sustainably. The fishing sector plays a crucial economic role, providing employment and export revenue, while also facing challenges such as overfishing, environmental concerns, and fluctuating international markets.

Data from FAO. 2025. Global Capture Production. In: Fisheries and Aquaculture.