Jersey, the largest of the Channel Islands, boasts a vibrant fishing industry rooted in centuries of maritime tradition, dating back to the medieval period when cod and herring were key exports. Today, Jersey’s commercial and recreational fisheries are renowned for their high-quality shellfish, with top catches including the prized Jersey Royal lobster (Homarus gammarus), brown crab (Cancer pagurus), and spider crab (Maja squinado). The island’s nutrient-rich waters also yield abundant bass, mackerel, and flatfish, supporting a sustainable, small-scale fishing fleet that supplies local markets and exports to France and beyond. Jersey’s fishing industry remains a vital part of its economy and cultural heritage, balancing modern practices with the preservation of traditional methods and marine resources.
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Data from FAO. 2025. Global Capture Production. In: Fisheries and Aquaculture.