Top Ling Fishing Countries

The ling (Molva molva) is a large, elongated member of the cod family found primarily in the North Atlantic Ocean, particularly along the coasts of Europe. Renowned for its firm, white flesh, ling is a valuable commercial species targeted by both industrial and artisanal fisheries. The top ling fishing countries are Norway, the United Kingdom (especially Scotland), Iceland, and Spain, with Norway and the UK historically dominating landings due to their extensive North Sea and Northeast Atlantic fisheries. Ling is typically caught using trawls, longlines, and gillnets, often as part of mixed demersal fisheries alongside other groundfish like cod and haddock. The species supports important export markets, especially in southern Europe, where ling is prized for dried and salted preparations. Sustainable management and quota systems are in place in many regions to ensure the long-term viability of ling stocks.

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