Top Mediterranean Horse Mackerel Fishing Countries

The Mediterranean horse mackerel (Trachurus mediterraneus) is a small, schooling pelagic fish found throughout the Mediterranean Sea and adjacent waters. Recognizable by its elongated body and silvery sheen, it plays a significant role in regional fisheries due to its abundance and popularity as a food fish. The top Mediterranean horse mackerel fishing countries include Turkey, Spain, Italy, and Greece, each with well-established fleets targeting this species using purse seines, trawls, and small-scale artisanal methods. Turkey and Spain, in particular, are leading producers, thanks to their extensive coastlines and robust fishing industries. The catch is primarily used for human consumption, both fresh and processed, and contributes to the economic vitality of coastal communities throughout the region.

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