Top Mullet Snapper Fishing Countries

The mullet snapper (*Lutjanus aratus*) is a striking, robust species found primarily in the eastern Pacific Ocean, ranging from the Gulf of California down to Peru, including the Galápagos Islands. Known for its reddish body and prominent size, the mullet snapper is a prized catch for both commercial and recreational fisheries due to its firm, flavorful flesh. The top countries engaged in mullet snapper fishing are Mexico, Ecuador, and Peru, where the species is commonly harvested by artisanal and small-scale commercial fishers using handlines, longlines, and gillnets. In these countries, mullet snapper supports local economies and provides a valuable food source, with landings often sold fresh in local markets or exported. Sustainable management is increasingly important, as overfishing and habitat degradation have put pressure on mullet snapper stocks in some areas.

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