Barrelfish (Hyperoglyphe perciformis) is a deep-water species found primarily in the western Atlantic Ocean, especially along the continental slopes and seamounts from Nova Scotia down to the Gulf of Mexico and the Caribbean. Recognized for its firm, white flesh and mild flavor, barrelfish is often caught as bycatch in deep-sea longline and bottom trawl fisheries targeting other species such as tilefish and groupers. The United States, particularly the southeastern states like Florida and the Carolinas, is the leading country in harvesting barrelfish, with commercial and recreational fishers both targeting this species. While not a primary target in most countries, smaller-scale fisheries in Bermuda and the Bahamas also land barrelfish. The species is valued for its culinary qualities, but overall, the global barrelfish fishery remains relatively limited and niche compared to more widely targeted deep-water species.
| Rank | Country | Metric Tons |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | United States of America | 7 |
Data from FAO. 2025. Global Capture Production. In: Fisheries and Aquaculture.