The French part of Saint Martin, known as Saint-Martin, boasts a modest yet vibrant fishing industry deeply rooted in local tradition. Historically, fishing has been a vital livelihood for islanders, with artisanal fishers using small boats and traditional techniques to harvest the surrounding Caribbean waters. The top fish catches include snapper (notably red snapper), grouper, mahi-mahi (dolphinfish), wahoo, and barracuda, alongside spiny lobster and various reef fish. While the industry is relatively small-scale, it supplies fresh seafood to local markets and restaurants, supporting both the local economy and the island’s renowned culinary scene. Over the years, the fishing sector has faced challenges from overfishing and hurricanes, but it remains an integral part of Saint-Martin’s cultural heritage and daily life.
| Rank | Fish Species | Metric Tons |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Marine fishes nei | 90 |
Data from FAO. 2025. Global Capture Production. In: Fisheries and Aquaculture.