The slender rockfish (Sebastolobus altivelis), also known as the longspine thornyhead, is a deep-water species found primarily in the North Pacific Ocean, particularly along the continental slopes of the western coast of North America. This fish is characterized by its elongated body, large head with prominent spines, and a reddish coloration. The slender rockfish is highly valued for its firm, white flesh and is primarily harvested by bottom trawl fisheries. The leading countries in slender rockfish fishing are the United States and Canada, especially in the waters off Alaska, British Columbia, and the U.S. West Coast. Both nations manage the fishery under strict regulations to ensure sustainability, with quotas and bycatch limits in place. Japan also imports slender rockfish for culinary use, though it does not have a significant domestic fishery for this species. The slender rockfish fishery is an important component of the deep-sea groundfish industry in the North Pacific region.
| Rank | Country | Metric Tons |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Spain | 40 |
Data from FAO. 2025. Global Capture Production. In: Fisheries and Aquaculture.