Top Black Seabass Fishing Countries

The black seabass (Centropristis striata) is a robust, bottom-dwelling fish native to the western Atlantic Ocean, particularly abundant along the eastern coast of the United States from Maine to Florida. Recognized for its dark coloration and stout body, black seabass is highly prized both commercially and recreationally for its firm, white flesh and mild flavor. The United States is the leading country in black seabass fishing, with the largest landings occurring in the Mid-Atlantic and South Atlantic regions, especially off the coasts of New Jersey, North Carolina, and Virginia. The commercial fishery utilizes traps, pots, and handlines, while recreational anglers target black seabass on reefs and wrecks. Strict management measures, including quotas and size limits, have helped maintain healthy stocks. While some black seabass are also caught in the waters of the Bahamas, the U.S. remains the primary harvester of this species, with limited contributions from other countries.

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