The porbeagle (Lamna nasus) is a large, cold-water shark found in the North Atlantic and Southern Hemisphere, prized for its firm, high-quality flesh and valued in both commercial and recreational fisheries. Known for its robust, torpedo-shaped body and powerful swimming ability, the porbeagle is often targeted for its meat, fins, and liver oil. Major porbeagle fishing countries include Canada, which has historically been one of the largest harvesters, particularly off the Atlantic coast; Norway and the United Kingdom, both of which have significant North Sea and Northeast Atlantic fisheries; and Spain, which operates distant-water fleets targeting porbeagle in the North Atlantic. Overfishing has led to population declines, prompting strict management measures and, in some regions, moratoriums or catch limits to help conserve the species. The international trade in porbeagle products is also regulated under CITES to ensure sustainable use.
| Rank | Country | Metric Tons |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | New Zealand | 28 |
| 2 | Norway | 8 |
| 3 | France | 2 |
| 5 | Australia | 1 |
| 5 | Falkland Islands (Malvinas) | 1 |
| 5 | Iceland | 1 |
Data from FAO. 2025. Global Capture Production. In: Fisheries and Aquaculture.