The lake cisco (Coregonus artedi), also known as lake herring, is a cold-water fish native to North America’s northern freshwater lakes, particularly the Great Lakes and other deep, cold lakes in the United States and Canada. This slender, silver fish is valued both as a commercial species and as forage for larger predators. The primary countries involved in lake cisco fishing are the United States and Canada, where the species has historically supported important commercial fisheries, especially in the Great Lakes region. In the early to mid-20th century, lake cisco was a staple in the commercial fishing industry, harvested for its delicate flesh and roe. However, overfishing, habitat changes, and competition from invasive species have led to significant declines in wild populations, resulting in stricter regulations and reduced harvests today. Despite these challenges, the U.S. and Canada remain the top countries associated with lake cisco fishing, focusing increasingly on sustainable management and restoration efforts.
| Rank | Country | Metric Tons |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Canada | 565 |
Data from FAO. 2025. Global Capture Production. In: Fisheries and Aquaculture.