Top Indian Scad Fishing Countries

The Indian scad (Decapterus russelli) is a small, schooling pelagic fish found in tropical and subtropical waters of the Indo-Pacific, particularly around the Indian Ocean and western Pacific regions. Recognizable by its elongated, silver body and prominent lateral line, the Indian scad is a significant species for commercial and artisanal fisheries due to its abundance and role as a staple protein source. The top fishing countries harvesting Indian scad include India, Indonesia, Thailand, Malaysia, and the Philippines, where it is caught using purse seines, trawls, and traditional nets. These nations have well-established fisheries targeting Indian scad, with the catch being processed for fresh consumption, dried products, and fishmeal, supporting both local economies and export markets. Over the years, the Indian scad fishery has been vital for coastal communities, though concerns about overfishing and sustainable management have prompted efforts to monitor and regulate catches in several regions.

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