Top Mackerel Scad Fishing Countries

The mackerel scad (Decapterus macarellus) is a small, schooling pelagic fish found in tropical and subtropical waters worldwide, recognized for its slender, streamlined body and importance in both commercial and artisanal fisheries. This species is particularly valued for its use as food and bait, supporting significant fisheries in regions such as Southeast Asia, the Western Pacific, and parts of the Indian Ocean. The top mackerel scad fishing countries include Indonesia, the Philippines, Thailand, and Japan, where the fish is harvested using purse seines, lift nets, and other small-scale fishing methods. In these countries, mackerel scad plays a crucial role in local diets and economies, with annual catches contributing substantially to both domestic consumption and export markets. The sustainability of mackerel scad fisheries is increasingly emphasized, as demand remains high and the species' rapid reproduction helps maintain healthy stocks when managed effectively.

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