Top Crimson Jobfish Fishing Countries

The Crimson Jobfish (Pristipomoides filamentosus), also known as opakapaka in Hawaii, is a prized deepwater snapper found throughout the Indo-Pacific region. Renowned for its firm, delicate flesh and mild flavor, it is highly valued in both commercial and artisanal fisheries. The top countries harvesting Crimson Jobfish include Japan, the United States (notably Hawaii), Australia, Indonesia, and several Pacific Island nations such as Fiji and Tonga. These countries utilize a mix of handline, bottom longline, and trap fishing methods to target this species, which typically inhabits depths of 100 to 400 meters along continental and island slopes. The Crimson Jobfish fishery is economically significant in these regions, supporting local livelihoods and export markets, though sustainable management is crucial due to the species’ slow growth and vulnerability to overfishing.

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