Top Atlantic Halibut Fishing Countries

The Atlantic halibut (*Hippoglossus hippoglossus*) is the largest flatfish species in the North Atlantic, prized for its firm, white flesh and substantial size, with individuals sometimes exceeding 200 kilograms. This deep-water demersal fish is primarily harvested in the cold waters off the coasts of Norway, Iceland, Canada, and, to a lesser extent, the United Kingdom and the United States. Historically, Atlantic halibut stocks were heavily overfished, leading to significant declines and strict management measures in many regions. Norway and Iceland are currently the top producers, utilizing both wild capture and increasingly successful aquaculture operations to meet market demand. Canada, particularly in Atlantic provinces like Nova Scotia and Newfoundland, also maintains a regulated commercial halibut fishery. These countries have implemented quotas, seasonal closures, and gear restrictions to support the recovery and sustainability of Atlantic halibut populations.

RankCountryMetric Tons
1Canada6,494
2Norway3,520
3Iceland195
4Faroe Islands180
5United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland160
6Denmark98
7Russian Federation90
8Spain80
9Estonia31
10United States of America27
11Saint Pierre and Miquelon24
12Germany18
13Greenland12
14Sweden10
15France5
15Netherlands (Kingdom of the)5
17Belgium1
17Japan1

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