The Cape hake (Merluccius capensis), a demersal fish species found primarily in the southeast Atlantic Ocean, is renowned for its commercial value, especially in shallow waters along the continental shelf. This species is characterized by its elongated body and silvery coloration, and it typically inhabits depths from 50 to 400 meters. The top countries engaged in shallow water Cape hake fishing are Namibia and South Africa, whose exclusive economic zones encompass the prime habitats for this species. Both nations have developed robust fishing industries centered around Cape hake, with Namibia's fishing sector being a cornerstone of its economy and South Africa maintaining a well-regulated trawl fishery. These countries have implemented strict management measures, including quotas and closed seasons, to ensure the sustainability of Cape hake stocks, making them global leaders in responsible hake fisheries.
| Rank | Country | Metric Tons |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Angola | 13,996 |
Data from FAO. 2025. Global Capture Production. In: Fisheries and Aquaculture.