Top Naked Catfishes Fishing Countries

Naked catfishes, primarily from the family Siluridae, are smooth-skinned, scaleless freshwater catfish native to Asia. These fish are characterized by their elongated bodies and lack of an adipose fin, making them distinct among catfish species. The top countries for naked catfish fishing and aquaculture are Thailand, Vietnam, Indonesia, and India, where species such as the Asian sheatfish (Silurus spp.) and the iridescent shark (Pangasianodon hypophthalmus, often called "naked catfish" in trade) are both wild-caught and farmed extensively. These nations have developed robust fishing and aquaculture industries around naked catfishes, supplying both local markets and exporting fillets and processed products worldwide. Vietnam, in particular, is a global leader in the production and export of Pangasius (basa and swai), which are closely related to naked catfishes and sometimes included under this term in the seafood trade. The popularity of naked catfish is driven by their mild flavor, versatility in cooking, and economic importance to rural communities in Southeast Asia.

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