The fishing industry in the Netherlands Antilles, which comprises several Caribbean islands such as Curaçao, Bonaire, and Sint Maarten, has traditionally been small-scale and artisanal, focused primarily on local consumption rather than export. The top fish catches in these waters include species such as mahi-mahi (dolphinfish), wahoo, tuna (notably yellowfin and skipjack), snapper, and grouper. Historically, fishing was an important livelihood for coastal communities, using simple boats and handlines, with a focus on reef and pelagic species. While the industry remains limited in scale due to the islands' small size and limited shelf area, local fisheries continue to supply fresh fish to markets and restaurants, supporting tourism and local diets. Recent years have seen efforts to promote sustainable fishing practices and protect marine resources, as overfishing and habitat degradation have become concerns in the region.
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Data from FAO. 2025. Global Capture Production. In: Fisheries and Aquaculture.