Czechoslovakia, a landlocked country that existed from 1918 to 1992, developed a notable inland fishing industry centered around its abundant rivers, lakes, and especially its extensive network of artificial ponds, particularly in the southern regions of Bohemia and Moravia. The top fish catches historically included common carp (Cyprinus carpio), which became the backbone of the country's aquaculture and a staple in Czech and Slovak cuisine, especially during Christmas. Other important species included pike (Esox lucius), tench (Tinca tinca), and zander (Sander lucioperca). The fishing industry in Czechoslovakia was characterized by a blend of traditional pond management, dating back to the Middle Ages, and modern fish farming techniques introduced in the 20th century, making the country one of the leading freshwater fish producers in Central Europe before its peaceful split into the Czech Republic and Slovakia.
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Data from FAO. 2025. Global Capture Production. In: Fisheries and Aquaculture.