Top River Lamprey Fishing Countries

The river lamprey (Lampetra fluviatilis) is a small, eel-like, jawless fish native to European rivers and coastal waters. Known for its parasitic feeding habits during its adult stage, the river lamprey is valued both as a traditional delicacy and as bait in some regions. The primary countries engaged in river lamprey fishing are Finland, Sweden, Estonia, Latvia, and Russia, particularly around the Baltic Sea basin. In Finland, lamprey (locally called "nahkiainen") is a prized seasonal food, especially along the Kokemäenjoki and Kymijoki rivers, where traditional lamprey traps and weirs are still used. Sweden and the Baltic States also have small but culturally significant lamprey fisheries. The industry is generally artisanal, with lampreys often smoked, pickled, or prepared in regional dishes, and strict regulations are in place to protect declining populations due to habitat loss and overfishing.

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