Top Ladyfish Fishing Countries

The ladyfish (Elops spp.), also known as "tenpounder," is a sleek, silver game fish found in tropical and subtropical coastal waters worldwide, particularly in the Atlantic Ocean and the Indo-Pacific region. Known for their acrobatic leaps and strong runs, ladyfish are popular among sport anglers but are not highly prized for their flesh, which contains many bones. Commercial harvesting of ladyfish is relatively limited compared to other species, but they are occasionally caught for bait, local consumption, or fishmeal. The top countries where ladyfish are caught include the United States (particularly Florida and the Gulf Coast), Mexico, various Caribbean nations, and countries along the West African coast such as Senegal and Nigeria. In these regions, ladyfish contribute to local artisanal fisheries rather than large-scale commercial operations, supporting coastal communities and recreational fishing industries.

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