The Atlantic butterfish (Peprilus triacanthus) is a small, silvery, disc-shaped fish found primarily along the western Atlantic coast of North America, from Newfoundland to Florida. Known for its mild flavor and delicate texture, the butterfish is a popular target for commercial fisheries. The United States is by far the leading country in harvesting Atlantic butterfish, with the majority of landings occurring in the Mid-Atlantic region, particularly off New Jersey, New York, and Virginia. Canada also participates in the fishery, though to a much lesser extent. The butterfish fishery is managed under strict quotas and regulations in the U.S. to ensure sustainability, and most of the catch is sold fresh or frozen for domestic consumption and export, especially to Asian markets where it is highly prized.
| Rank | Country | Metric Tons |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | United States of America | 906 |
Data from FAO. 2025. Global Capture Production. In: Fisheries and Aquaculture.