Top Spiny Gurnard Fishing Countries

The spiny gurnard, belonging to the family Triglidae, is a distinctive bottom-dwelling fish recognized for its armored, spiny head and vibrant pectoral fins, often displaying striking colors. Found primarily in temperate and subtropical waters of the Eastern Atlantic, Mediterranean, and parts of the Indo-Pacific, spiny gurnards are commonly harvested as bycatch in trawl fisheries targeting mixed demersal species. The leading countries in spiny gurnard fishing include France, Italy, Spain, and Greece, where the fish is valued for its firm, flavorful flesh and is often featured in traditional Mediterranean cuisine. While not typically the primary target of large-scale commercial fisheries, spiny gurnards contribute to local economies and are landed in moderate quantities, particularly in artisanal and small-scale fisheries. Sustainable management is crucial, as trawling can impact benthic habitats where gurnards are found.

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