Top Patagonian Redfish Fishing Countries

The Patagonian redfish (Sebastes oculatus), also known as the Patagonian rockfish, is a deep-water species found primarily in the cold, temperate waters off southern South America, particularly around the Patagonian Shelf and the Falkland Islands. This slow-growing, long-lived fish is prized for its firm, white flesh and is mainly targeted by bottom trawl fisheries. The leading countries involved in harvesting Patagonian redfish are Argentina and Chile, whose fleets operate extensively in the South Atlantic and around the southern tip of South America. The Falkland Islands (a British Overseas Territory) also have a significant redfish fishery, managed under strict quotas to ensure sustainability. The fishing industry for Patagonian redfish is economically important for these countries, with much of the catch exported to international markets, especially in Europe and Asia. However, due to concerns about overfishing and the species’ vulnerability, regional fisheries management organizations have implemented regulations to help preserve redfish stocks.

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