Top European Sprat Fishing Countries

The European sprat (Sprattus sprattus) is a small, schooling pelagic fish found in the Northeast Atlantic, Baltic Sea, and parts of the Mediterranean. It plays a vital ecological role and is a significant target for commercial fisheries, primarily used for human consumption, animal feed, and fishmeal. The top European sprat fishing countries are typically those bordering the Baltic Sea and North Sea, with Denmark, Norway, Sweden, Poland, and Russia leading in annual catches. These nations have developed robust sprat fisheries, supported by modern fleets and processing industries. The sprat fishery is managed under international agreements and quotas, especially within the European Union and through regional fisheries management organizations, to ensure sustainability and prevent overexploitation of this important species.

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