The cowcod (Sebastes levis) is a large, deep-water rockfish native to the eastern Pacific Ocean, primarily found off the coast of California and Baja California. Recognized for its distinctive pinkish coloration and robust size, the cowcod is a slow-growing species that inhabits rocky reefs and deep continental shelf waters. Historically, cowcod was heavily targeted by commercial and recreational fisheries in the United States and Mexico, leading to severe population declines and its designation as an overfished species in the late 20th century. The United States, particularly California, has been the principal country harvesting cowcod, with Mexico also having a smaller but notable fishery. Strict management measures, including catch limits and area closures, have been implemented by the U.S. to rebuild stocks, and recent assessments show signs of recovery. While commercial harvest remains limited due to conservation efforts, the cowcod remains an important species in the history of West Coast groundfish fisheries.
| Rank | Country | Metric Tons |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | United States of America | 1 |
Data from FAO. 2025. Global Capture Production. In: Fisheries and Aquaculture.