Top Ocean Whitefish Fishing Countries

Ocean whitefish is a term that can refer to several commercially important species, but most commonly it includes species like Atlantic cod, haddock, pollock, and hake—mild-flavored, white-fleshed fish found in temperate and cold ocean waters. These fish are a staple of global seafood markets and are harvested extensively by some of the world’s leading fishing nations. The top ocean whitefish fishing countries include Norway, Russia, the United States, Iceland, and China. Norway and Russia dominate the Barents Sea fisheries, particularly for cod and haddock, using advanced, sustainable fishing practices. The United States, particularly Alaska, is a major producer of pollock, which is widely used in products like fish sticks and imitation crab. Iceland’s economy is deeply tied to its whitefish fisheries, especially cod, which has shaped its history and culture. China, with its vast fishing fleet, also contributes significantly to global whitefish harvests, both through wild capture and aquaculture. These countries have developed robust fishing industries, investing in technology and management to ensure the continued abundance of these valuable ocean resources.

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