The Giant Seabass (Stereolepis gigas), also known as black sea bass or "jewfish," is a massive marine fish native to the northeastern Pacific Ocean, particularly along the coasts of California and Baja California. This species, which can reach weights of over 500 pounds, is prized for its size and rarity. Historically, the United States (especially California) and Mexico have been the top countries associated with Giant Seabass fishing, though overfishing in the early to mid-20th century led to a dramatic decline in their populations. Strict regulations and fishing bans have since been implemented in these regions, making commercial harvest rare and focusing efforts on conservation and catch-and-release sport fishing. Today, the Giant Seabass is considered critically endangered, and both the U.S. and Mexico prioritize research and protection over commercial exploitation, with recreational anglers occasionally encountering these giants under tightly controlled conditions.
| Rank | Country | Metric Tons |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | United States of America | 3 |
Data from FAO. 2025. Global Capture Production. In: Fisheries and Aquaculture.