Top Scaled Sardines Fishing Countries

Scaled sardines, also known as Harengula jaguana, are small, schooling pelagic fish found primarily in the western Atlantic Ocean, including the Gulf of Mexico and the Caribbean Sea. Renowned for their silvery scales and importance as baitfish, scaled sardines are a vital resource for both commercial and recreational fisheries. The leading countries harvesting scaled sardines include the United States (notably Florida), Mexico, and several Caribbean nations such as Cuba and the Bahamas. In these regions, scaled sardines are primarily caught using purse seines and cast nets, supporting local economies and serving as a crucial food source for larger predatory fish and humans alike. The fishing industry for scaled sardines is characterized by its focus on sustainability and the significant role these fish play in marine food webs, making them essential for both ecological balance and economic activity in coastal communities.

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