Top Atlantic Horse Mackerel Fishing Countries

The Atlantic horse mackerel (Trachurus trachurus) is a widely distributed pelagic fish found in the eastern Atlantic Ocean, from Norway and Iceland down to South Africa, as well as in the Mediterranean and Black Seas. Recognizable by its elongated, streamlined body and distinctive lateral line of bony scutes, this species forms large schools and is a significant target for commercial fisheries. The top Atlantic horse mackerel fishing countries include the Netherlands, Spain, Portugal, Morocco, and the United Kingdom, with additional significant catches by Ireland, France, and Norway. These nations operate large-scale trawl and purse seine fisheries, supplying both domestic and international markets with fresh, frozen, and processed products. The species is managed under various international agreements, such as those coordinated by the International Council for the Exploration of the Sea (ICES), to ensure sustainable harvests and prevent overfishing, reflecting its economic and ecological importance in the region.

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