Top Common Dab Fishing Countries

The common dab (Limanda limanda) is a small, right-eyed flatfish native to the shallow coastal waters of the northeastern Atlantic Ocean, particularly abundant in the North Sea and parts of the Baltic Sea. Recognized for its pale brown coloration and delicate, mild-flavored flesh, the common dab is a popular target for both commercial and recreational fisheries. The top countries harvesting common dab are the United Kingdom, Denmark, the Netherlands, Germany, and Norway, all of which have long-standing fishing traditions in the North Sea region. These countries utilize trawl fisheries to catch dab, often as part of mixed flatfish catches alongside plaice and sole. While not as commercially valuable as other flatfish, the common dab has gained popularity in recent years due to sustainable fishing campaigns and its availability as an alternative to overexploited species.

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