Top Spotted Wolffish Fishing Countries

The spotted wolffish (Anarhichas minor) is a large, bottom-dwelling marine fish found in the cold waters of the North Atlantic, particularly along the continental shelves and slopes. Recognized for its elongated body, powerful jaws, and distinctive dark spots, this species is valued for its firm, white flesh and is primarily targeted by commercial fisheries. The top countries harvesting spotted wolffish are Norway, Iceland, and Russia, with Canada also playing a notable role, especially in the North Atlantic and Arctic regions. These countries utilize trawl and longline fisheries to catch wolffish, often as part of mixed-species groundfish operations. Due to concerns about declining populations and bycatch, the fishing industry in these nations is increasingly subject to management measures such as quotas, size limits, and closed areas to promote sustainable harvests and protect vulnerable wolffish stocks.

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