Top Arrowtooth Flounder Fishing Countries

The Arrowtooth Flounder (Atheresthes stomias) is a demersal flatfish native to the cold waters of the North Pacific Ocean, particularly abundant along the continental shelves of the Bering Sea, Gulf of Alaska, and the west coast of North America. Recognized for its elongated body and sharp, arrow-shaped teeth, this species is primarily harvested by commercial trawl fisheries. The United States, especially Alaska, is by far the leading country in Arrowtooth Flounder landings, with significant catches also reported from Canada, particularly British Columbia. While Arrowtooth Flounder was once considered a low-value bycatch due to its soft flesh (caused by a parasite that breaks down muscle tissue), advancements in processing have increased its marketability. The fishery is now an important component of the groundfish industry in both the U.S. and Canada, contributing to the economies of coastal communities and supporting export markets, often as surimi or fish meal.

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