Top Blackfin Snook Fishing Countries

The blackfin snook (*Centropomus medius*) is a prized coastal sport fish found primarily in the warm, brackish waters of the western Atlantic, particularly along the coasts of Central and South America. Recognized for its streamlined body, dark lateral line, and distinctive black-tipped fins, the blackfin snook is highly sought after for its fighting ability and culinary value. The top countries for blackfin snook fishing include Mexico, Costa Rica, Panama, and Colombia, where the species thrives in estuaries, mangrove-lined rivers, and coastal lagoons. While commercial harvest is limited due to the species’ sensitivity to overfishing and habitat degradation, artisanal and recreational fisheries play a significant role in the local economies of these countries. Conservation measures and catch-and-release practices are increasingly promoted to ensure the sustainability of blackfin snook populations, as these fish are valued both for tourism and as a local food resource.

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