Guatemala’s fishing industry, though relatively modest compared to some of its Central American neighbors, is renowned for its exceptional sport fishing, particularly along its Pacific coast. The country is internationally recognized as one of the world’s premier destinations for sailfish, especially the Pacific sailfish, with anglers frequently achieving catch-and-release records for this species. Other top catches include marlin (both blue and black), dorado (mahi-mahi), yellowfin tuna, and roosterfish. While commercial fishing is less developed and primarily focused on supplying local markets with species like shrimp and tilapia, the sport fishing sector has flourished since the 1990s, drawing tourists from around the globe. Conservation efforts and strict catch-and-release policies for billfish have helped sustain the fish populations, making Guatemala a model for sustainable sport fishing in the region.
| Rank | Fish Species | Metric Tons |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Skipjack tuna | 7,229 |
| 2 | Yellowfin tuna | 3,842 |
| 3 | Freshwater fishes nei | 2,250 |
| 4 | Bigeye tuna | 868 |
| 5 | Frigate tuna | 805 |
| 6 | Marine fishes nei | 308 |
| 7 | Penaeus shrimps nei | 289 |
| 8 | Little tunny(=Atl.black skipj) | 213 |
| 9 | Sharks, rays, skates, etc. nei | 155 |
| 10 | Cichlids nei | 110 |
| 11 | Pacific seabobs | 93 |
| 12 | Croakers, drums nei | 39 |
| 13 | Sea catfishes nei | 30 |
| 14 | Common dolphinfish | 13 |
| 15 | Marine crustaceans nei | 5 |
| 16 | Marine molluscs nei | 4 |
| 16 | Various squids nei | 4 |
Data from FAO. 2025. Global Capture Production. In: Fisheries and Aquaculture.