Top European Common Squid Fishing Countries

The European common squid (Loligo vulgaris) is a commercially valuable cephalopod found in the eastern Atlantic Ocean, from the North Sea and British Isles down to the Mediterranean and West African coasts. Characterized by its elongated, torpedo-shaped body and rapid growth, this species is a staple in European seafood markets. The main fishing nations targeting the European common squid are Spain, France, Portugal, and the United Kingdom, with Spain and France traditionally leading in landings due to their extensive Atlantic and Mediterranean fleets. These countries employ trawling and jigging methods, supplying both domestic consumption and export markets. The European common squid fishery is vital for coastal communities, particularly in Galicia (Spain) and Brittany (France), and is managed under EU regulations to ensure sustainability and stock health.

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