Top Short Mackerel Fishing Countries

The short mackerel (Rastrelliger brachysoma) is a small, fast-swimming pelagic fish found primarily in the warm coastal waters of the Indo-Pacific region, particularly in Southeast Asia. Recognized for its silvery body and distinctive dark bands, this species is a staple in local diets and a key target for commercial and artisanal fisheries. The leading short mackerel fishing countries are Thailand, Indonesia, Malaysia, and the Philippines, where the species is harvested using purse seines, gillnets, and trawl nets. Thailand, in particular, stands out as the largest producer, with its robust fishing industry supplying both domestic markets and export demands. The short mackerel fishery plays a vital economic and nutritional role in these countries, though concerns about overfishing have led to increased efforts in sustainable management and regulation.

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