Marlins, belonging to the family Istiophoridae, are large, fast, and highly prized game fish known for their elongated bodies, spear-like bills, and remarkable speed, making them a favorite among sport fishers. While countries like the United States, Japan, and Australia are well-known for their marlin fisheries, several other nations also play significant roles in the global marlin fishing industry. These "Top Marlins Not Elsewhere Included Fishing Countries" typically encompass nations such as Mexico, Costa Rica, Panama, and several West African countries, including Cape Verde and Senegal. These regions benefit from rich offshore waters where blue, black, and striped marlins thrive, supporting both commercial and recreational fisheries. In these countries, marlin fishing contributes to local economies through tourism, charter fishing, and, to a lesser extent, commercial harvests, although conservation concerns have led to increased catch-and-release practices and international regulations to protect marlin populations from overfishing.
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Data from FAO. 2025. Global Capture Production. In: Fisheries and Aquaculture.