Top Cachema Weakfish Fishing Countries

The Cachema weakfish (Cynoscion acoupa), also known as acoupa weakfish or simply "acoupa," is a large, silvery member of the drum family (Sciaenidae) native to the Atlantic coasts of northern South America, particularly in estuarine and coastal waters. Renowned for its firm, flavorful flesh, the Cachema weakfish is a highly valued target for both commercial and artisanal fisheries. The top countries harvesting this species are Brazil, Venezuela, Suriname, French Guiana, and Guyana, where it supports significant local economies and export markets. Brazil, in particular, leads in production, with large-scale fisheries operating in the Amazon estuary and northern coastal regions. Overfishing and habitat degradation have raised concerns about the sustainability of Cachema weakfish stocks, prompting some countries to implement management measures to protect this important resource.

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