Hungary, a landlocked country rich in rivers and lakes, has a long-standing tradition of freshwater fishing, with the industry playing an important role in both local cuisine and recreation. The top fish catches in Hungary include common carp (Cyprinus carpio), which is the most prominent and culturally significant species, as well as pike-perch (Sander lucioperca), catfish (Silurus glanis), and bream (Abramis brama). Hungary’s fishing industry historically centered on the Danube and Tisza rivers and the extensive network of artificial lakes and fishponds, especially after the 19th-century regulation of its rivers. While commercial fishing has declined due to environmental concerns and economic changes, recreational fishing thrives, with Lake Balaton and Lake Tisza being particularly popular destinations. Today, Hungary is recognized for its sustainable fish farming practices, especially of carp, and for hosting international angling competitions that celebrate its rich aquatic heritage.
| Rank | Fish Species | Metric Tons |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Common carp | 2,868 |
| 2 | Cyprinids nei | 262 |
| 3 | Freshwater fishes nei | 244 |
| 4 | Wels(=Som) catfish | 239 |
| 5 | Grass carp(=White amur) | 227 |
| 6 | Catfishes nei | 210 |
| 7 | Pike-perch | 164 |
| 8 | Prussian carp | 125 |
| 9 | Silver, bighead carps nei | 88 |
| 10 | Northern pike | 81 |
| 11 | Barbel | 33 |
| 11 | Asp | 33 |
| 13 | Volga pikeperch | 11 |
| 14 | European perch | 3 |
| 14 | Sichel | 3 |
| 16 | European eel | 2 |
| 16 | Tench | 2 |
| 18 | Burbot | 1 |
Data from FAO. 2025. Global Capture Production. In: Fisheries and Aquaculture.