Top Butter Catfish Fishing Countries

The butter catfish, commonly referring to species in the genus *Ompok* (notably *Ompok bimaculatus*), is a freshwater fish prized for its delicate, buttery flesh and is native to South and Southeast Asia. This species thrives in rivers, lakes, and floodplains and is a staple in local diets. The top butter catfish fishing countries are India, Bangladesh, Myanmar, and Thailand, where both wild capture and aquaculture contribute significantly to the supply. In these countries, butter catfish is harvested by small-scale fishers using traditional gear, and in recent years, aquaculture production has increased to meet rising demand. India is the leading producer, with extensive river systems supporting both wild and farmed populations, followed by Bangladesh, where the fish is culturally significant and widely consumed. The fishing and farming of butter catfish support local economies, provide livelihoods, and play an important role in regional food security.

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