Top Allis Shad Fishing Countries

The Allis shad (Alosa alosa) is a migratory fish species native to the eastern Atlantic Ocean and western European rivers, known for its silvery body and seasonal spawning runs. Historically prized for both its delicate flesh and roe, Allis shad populations have declined due to overfishing, habitat loss, and river obstacles. The top countries with a tradition of Allis shad fishing include France, Portugal, and Spain, where the species was once an important commercial and artisanal catch, especially in river systems like the Garonne, Loire, and Minho. In France, the Allis shad was particularly significant along the Atlantic coast, while in Portugal and Spain, it was harvested in the estuaries and lower reaches of major rivers. Today, strict regulations and conservation measures are in place due to the species’ vulnerable status, and commercial fishing has largely diminished, but Allis shad remains a culturally important fish in these regions.

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