Top Red Scorpionfish Fishing Countries

The Red Scorpionfish (Scorpaena scrofa) is a distinctive, venomous marine fish found primarily in the eastern Atlantic Ocean and throughout the Mediterranean Sea. Recognized for its reddish coloration and spiny appearance, it is a prized catch for its firm, flavorful flesh, often featured in Mediterranean cuisine such as bouillabaisse. The top countries involved in harvesting Red Scorpionfish are predominantly Mediterranean nations, with Spain, Italy, Greece, and Turkey leading the industry. These countries utilize both artisanal and small-scale commercial fisheries, typically employing trawls, gillnets, and longlines to catch this demersal species. The Red Scorpionfish fishery is generally considered sustainable due to its relatively low catch volumes and the species’ wide distribution, but local populations can be vulnerable to overfishing, prompting some regions to implement catch limits and seasonal closures.

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