The alewife (Alosa pseudoharengus) is a small, silvery, anadromous fish native to the North American Atlantic coast, known for its crucial role in both freshwater and marine ecosystems. Alewives migrate from the ocean into rivers and lakes to spawn, making them an important forage species for larger fish, birds, and mammals. The primary countries involved in alewife fishing are the United States and Canada, particularly in the Atlantic provinces and the Great Lakes region. Historically, alewife was harvested in large numbers for use as bait, animal feed, and even for human consumption, especially in New England and Atlantic Canada. However, overfishing, habitat loss, and barriers to migration have led to significant declines in their populations, prompting stricter management and conservation measures in both countries. Today, commercial harvests are much reduced, but the species remains culturally and ecologically significant in regions where it is found.
| Rank | Country | Metric Tons |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Canada | 4,608 |
Data from FAO. 2025. Global Capture Production. In: Fisheries and Aquaculture.