Top Tonga Fish Catches

Tonga’s fishing industry is a vital part of its economy and culture, with both artisanal and commercial sectors contributing to livelihoods and exports. The nation’s rich Pacific waters yield top catches such as albacore tuna, yellowfin tuna, bigeye tuna, and skipjack tuna, which are primarily targeted by longline and pole-and-line fisheries. Additionally, snapper, grouper, and deepwater bottomfish are important for local consumption and export. Traditional fishing has deep roots in Tongan society, but the industry expanded significantly in the late 20th century with the development of commercial tuna fisheries, driven by international demand. Today, Tonga’s fisheries face challenges such as resource management and competition from larger foreign fleets, but they remain central to the country’s food security and economic development.

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