Top Caspian Shads Fishing Countries

The Caspian shad (Alosa caspia) is a small, silvery, anadromous fish found primarily in the brackish and freshwater environments of the Caspian Sea and its tributaries. Renowned for its commercial value, the Caspian shad is a staple in regional diets and is harvested for both direct consumption and as bait in sturgeon fisheries. The top Caspian shad fishing countries are those bordering the Caspian Sea, with Iran and Russia leading in overall catch, followed by Azerbaijan, Kazakhstan, and Turkmenistan. These nations have developed significant fisheries targeting the species, employing both traditional and industrial methods. The Caspian shad fishery plays an important economic and cultural role in these countries, although overfishing and environmental changes have led to fluctuations in stock levels, prompting efforts to manage and sustain the fishery for future generations.

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