Top Peru Fish Catches

Peru boasts one of the world’s most significant fishing industries, primarily driven by its rich Pacific coastal waters influenced by the nutrient-laden Humboldt Current. The country is globally renowned for its massive catches of anchoveta (Engraulis ringens), a small pelagic fish that forms the backbone of Peru’s fishery, primarily processed into fishmeal and fish oil for export. Other important species include mackerel, jack mackerel, sardines, and tuna, as well as a variety of demersal fish and cephalopods like squid. The Peruvian fishing industry experienced a boom in the mid-20th century, becoming the world’s leading fishmeal producer, though it has faced challenges from overfishing and El Niño events that periodically disrupt fish stocks. Today, Peru remains a global fishing powerhouse, balancing industrial-scale operations with a vibrant artisanal sector, and continues to adapt its management practices to ensure the sustainability of its vital marine resources.

Data from FAO. 2025. Global Capture Production. In: Fisheries and Aquaculture.