Top Ecuador Fish Catches

Ecuador’s fishing industry is one of the most important in South America, both economically and historically, with a strong focus on both artisanal and industrial fisheries. The country’s Pacific coastline and rich marine waters yield top fish catches such as tuna (especially skipjack, yellowfin, and bigeye), mahi-mahi (dorado), sardines, and anchovies. Ecuador is renowned as one of the world’s leading exporters of tuna, with a modern fleet and processing facilities centered around the port city of Manta. The fishing industry began to expand significantly in the mid-20th century, initially driven by the demand for tuna and later for shrimp and other seafood products. Today, fishing not only supports thousands of jobs but also contributes significantly to Ecuador’s export revenues, with sustainable practices and international certifications becoming increasingly important in recent years.

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