Serbia’s fishing industry is centered on its abundant rivers, lakes, and reservoirs, with the Danube, Sava, and Tisa rivers being particularly important for both commercial and recreational fishing. The top fish catches in Serbia include carp (Cyprinus carpio), catfish (Silurus glanis), pike (Esox lucius), zander (Sander lucioperca), and various species of bream and perch. Historically, fishing has played a significant role in Serbian rural economies, especially in the fertile plains of Vojvodina, where fish farming and wild catches have long supported local communities. While the industry today is relatively small compared to other sectors, aquaculture is growing, and traditional fishing remains an important cultural and economic activity, with local markets and restaurants featuring freshwater fish as regional specialties.
Rank | Fish Species | Metric Tons |
---|---|---|
1 | Freshwater fishes nei | 495 |
2 | Goldfish | 365 |
3 | Wels(=Som) catfish | 299 |
4 | Silver carp | 244 |
5 | Freshwater bream | 222 |
6 | Pike-perch | 193 |
7 | Common carp | 183 |
8 | Asp | 82 |
9 | Northern pike | 81 |
10 | Common nase | 71 |
11 | Barbel | 70 |
12 | European perch | 26 |
13 | Chub | 22 |
14 | Grass carp(=White amur) | 20 |
15 | Rudd | 6 |
Data from FAO. 2025. Global Capture Production. In: Fisheries and Aquaculture.