Top Spotted Flounder Fishing Countries

The top spotted flounder fishing countries are primarily located in the North Atlantic and include the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, and several European nations such as Denmark and Norway. The spotted flounder, known scientifically as Citharus linguatula, is a demersal flatfish recognized for its distinctive dark spots and ability to camouflage on sandy or muddy sea bottoms. This species is valued for its mild, delicate flesh and is targeted by both commercial trawl fisheries and small-scale coastal fishers. The fishing industry for spotted flounder is well-established in these countries, with the catch often destined for local consumption as well as export markets. Sustainable management practices, including quotas and gear restrictions, are increasingly implemented to ensure the long-term viability of spotted flounder stocks, particularly in European waters where overfishing has been a concern in the past.

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