Top Pacific Chub Mackerel Fishing Countries

The Pacific chub mackerel (Scomber japonicus) is a small, fast-swimming pelagic fish found throughout the Pacific Ocean, recognized for its streamlined body and iridescent blue-green back. Valued for its mild flavor and versatility, this species supports significant commercial fisheries. The top Pacific chub mackerel fishing countries include Japan, South Korea, China, and the United States (notably California), where large-scale purse seine and trawl operations target these abundant schools. Japan and South Korea have long histories of harvesting and processing chub mackerel for both domestic consumption and export, while China’s rapidly expanding fishing industry has made it a major player in recent decades. The United States, particularly off the West Coast, also maintains a sustainable fishery, with most of the catch used for food, bait, and fishmeal. These countries’ fisheries are crucial for local economies and global seafood markets, though they require careful management to prevent overexploitation and ensure long-term sustainability.

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