Top Spectacled Caiman Fishing Countries

The spectacled caiman (Caiman crocodilus) is a medium-sized crocodilian native to Central and South America, easily recognized by the bony ridge between its eyes that resembles a pair of spectacles. While not a true fish, the spectacled caiman is sometimes harvested in a manner similar to fishing, particularly for its skin and meat. The primary countries involved in the harvesting and management of spectacled caiman populations are Colombia, Venezuela, Brazil, and Bolivia. In these countries, regulated caiman ranching and sustainable wild harvest programs have developed, especially since the 1980s, to curb illegal hunting and promote conservation. Colombia, in particular, has become a leader in spectacled caiman management, exporting caiman skins for the international leather trade. These programs balance economic interests with the need to maintain healthy wild populations, making these countries the top "fishing" nations for spectacled caiman.

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