Top Atlantic Sailfish Fishing Countries

The Atlantic sailfish (Istiophorus albicans) is renowned for its speed, agility, and striking appearance, featuring a long, slender body and a distinctive, sail-like dorsal fin. This prized game fish inhabits the warm waters of the Atlantic Ocean, particularly along the coasts of the United States (notably Florida), Mexico, the Bahamas, and several Caribbean nations. Countries such as the United States, Costa Rica, and the Dominican Republic are top destinations for recreational sailfish fishing, attracting anglers from around the world for catch-and-release sportfishing. While commercial harvest of Atlantic sailfish is limited due to conservation efforts and its popularity as a sport fish, some countries in West Africa and South America also encounter sailfish as bycatch in their pelagic longline fisheries. The fishing industry in these regions often balances economic interests with sustainability, as international regulations and local initiatives aim to protect sailfish populations for future generations.

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