Top Kelp Greenling Fishing Countries

The kelp greenling (Hexagrammos decagrammus) is a coastal marine fish native to the North Pacific, particularly abundant along the rocky shorelines and kelp forests of the Pacific coasts of North America and Asia. Recognized for its mottled coloration and preference for shallow, vegetated habitats, the kelp greenling is primarily targeted by recreational anglers and small-scale commercial fisheries. The top countries harvesting kelp greenling are the United States, especially in the state of Alaska and along the Pacific Northwest, and Canada, with some minor catches reported in Russia and Japan. In these regions, the fishing industry for kelp greenling is relatively modest compared to other commercial species, focusing mostly on local consumption, with the fish valued for its mild flavor and firm texture. Management measures, such as bag limits and seasonal closures, are implemented in the U.S. and Canada to ensure sustainable populations, reflecting the species’ importance to coastal ecosystems and recreational fisheries.

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