Top European Flounder Fishing Countries

The European flounder (Platichthys flesus) is a flatfish species found in coastal waters and estuaries throughout Europe, recognized for its oval, flattened body and ability to adapt to both salt and brackish waters. Commercially valuable for its mild-flavored flesh, the European flounder supports significant fisheries, particularly in the North and Baltic Seas. The leading countries harvesting European flounder include Denmark, the Netherlands, Germany, Poland, and the United Kingdom. These nations operate both small-scale and industrial trawl and gillnet fisheries, with Denmark and the Netherlands traditionally dominating landings due to their advanced fishing fleets and proximity to productive flounder grounds. Sustainable management practices are increasingly emphasized across these countries to ensure the long-term viability of flounder stocks amid changing environmental conditions and fishing pressures.

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