Top Great Hammerhead Fishing Countries

The great hammerhead shark (*Sphyrna mokarran*) is the largest species of hammerhead, recognized by its distinctive, wide, T-shaped head and tall, sickle-shaped dorsal fin. Found in tropical and warm temperate waters worldwide, this apex predator is highly valued for its fins, which are sought after in the international shark fin trade. The main countries historically involved in the fishing and export of great hammerheads include Indonesia, India, Sri Lanka, and several West African nations, such as Ghana and Senegal. These countries have significant artisanal and commercial shark fisheries, often landing hammerheads as both targeted catch and bycatch. Unfortunately, heavy fishing pressure—especially for their fins—has led to dramatic declines in great hammerhead populations, prompting international conservation efforts and stricter regulations in some regions.

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