The curlfin sole (Pleuronichthys decurrens) is a flatfish native to the northeastern Pacific Ocean, found primarily along the west coast of North America from Alaska to Baja California. Distinguished by its oval, flattened body and distinctive curled dorsal and anal fins, this demersal species inhabits sandy or muddy bottoms at moderate depths. The curlfin sole is not a major target for commercial fisheries compared to other flatfish, but it is harvested as part of mixed flatfish trawl fisheries, particularly in the United States and Canada. The United States, especially the states of Alaska, Washington, Oregon, and California, is the leading country in curlfin sole landings, with Canada also contributing smaller catches along its Pacific coast. The fish is valued for its mild flavor and is primarily marketed fresh or frozen, often as part of assorted flatfish products. While not a high-volume species, sustainable management practices in both the U.S. and Canada help ensure the curlfin sole remains a stable component of the regional groundfish industry.
| Rank | Country | Metric Tons |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | United States of America | 1 |
Data from FAO. 2025. Global Capture Production. In: Fisheries and Aquaculture.