The top fish catches in the European Union come primarily from Spain, France, and Denmark, with Spain traditionally leading in total landings due to its large Atlantic and Mediterranean fleets. The EU fishing industry is diverse, targeting species such as Atlantic mackerel, herring, cod, sardines, and anchovy, with demersal species like hake and sole also being significant. Historically, European fishing has deep roots dating back to the Middle Ages, evolving from small-scale coastal operations to a modern, highly regulated industry under the EU’s Common Fisheries Policy, which aims to balance economic interests with sustainability. Today, the industry faces challenges from overfishing, changing quotas, and competition, but remains vital for coastal economies and European food security.
| Rank | Fish Species | Metric Tons |
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Data from FAO. 2025. Global Capture Production. In: Fisheries and Aquaculture.