Top Copper Shark Fishing Countries

The copper shark (Carcharhinus brachyurus), also known as the bronze whaler, is a large coastal shark found in temperate and subtropical waters worldwide. Recognizable by its bronze coloration and streamlined body, the copper shark is targeted by commercial and recreational fisheries for its meat, fins, and liver oil. The top countries involved in copper shark fishing include South Africa, New Zealand, Australia, and Argentina, where the species is commonly caught in gillnet, longline, and trawl fisheries. In these regions, copper sharks are often harvested both intentionally and as bycatch, contributing to local economies but also raising concerns about overfishing and population declines. Management measures vary by country, with some implementing catch limits and shark finning bans to promote sustainable fisheries.

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