The Reticulated Leatherjacket (Stephanolepis cirrhifer) is a small, laterally compressed marine fish recognized for its tough, sandpaper-like skin and intricate reticulated patterning. Native to the temperate coastal waters of the Northwest Pacific, particularly around Japan, Korea, and China, this species is highly valued in regional cuisines and is often caught using trawl and set net fisheries. Japan stands out as the leading country in the commercial harvest of Reticulated Leatherjacket, where it is known as "kawahagi" and is popular both as a fresh market fish and in dried or processed forms. South Korea and China also maintain active fisheries for this species, supplying local demand and contributing to regional seafood markets. The fishing industry for Reticulated Leatherjacket is characterized by small-scale coastal operations, with sustainability concerns prompting management measures in some regions to prevent overfishing and ensure the long-term viability of stocks.
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Data from FAO. 2025. Global Capture Production. In: Fisheries and Aquaculture.