Top Smooth Skate Fishing Countries

The Top Smooth Skate (*Dipturus oxyrinchus*) is a demersal cartilaginous fish found primarily in the eastern Atlantic Ocean and the Mediterranean Sea, recognized by its flattened body and elongated snout. This species inhabits sandy or muddy seabeds at depths ranging from shallow coastal waters to about 600 meters. The fishing industry for the Top Smooth Skate is concentrated in European countries, with the United Kingdom, France, Spain, and Portugal being the leading harvesters, mainly due to their extensive trawl and gillnet fisheries targeting mixed demersal species. Italy and Greece also contribute to the catch, particularly within the Mediterranean basin. While the skate is valued for its meat, especially the wings, overfishing and bycatch have led to population declines, prompting management measures and catch limits in several countries to ensure the sustainability of the species.

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