Top Eastern Pacific Bonito Fishing Countries

The Eastern Pacific bonito (Sarda chiliensis) is a fast-swimming, schooling fish found along the Pacific coasts of North, Central, and South America, known for its streamlined body and distinctive dark stripes. This species is prized both commercially and recreationally for its firm, flavorful flesh and is often used fresh, smoked, or canned. The top countries harvesting Eastern Pacific bonito include Mexico, Peru, and Chile, where the species supports vibrant local fisheries. Mexico, in particular, has a longstanding tradition of bonito fishing, with artisanal and small-scale commercial fleets operating along both the Pacific and Gulf coasts. Peru and Chile also maintain significant bonito fisheries, often as part of mixed-species coastal operations targeting pelagic fish. These countries rely on sustainable management practices to ensure the continued abundance of bonito, which plays an important role in regional economies and food security.

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