Top Stone King Crab Fishing Countries

The Stone King Crab, known scientifically as Lithodes aequispinus and often referred to as the golden king crab, is a large, spiny crustacean prized for its sweet, delicate meat. This species inhabits deep, cold waters of the northern Pacific Ocean, particularly around the continental slopes and underwater canyons. The top countries engaged in Stone King Crab fishing are the United States (primarily Alaska), Russia, and Japan. Alaska leads the industry with a well-managed, quota-based fishery that emphasizes sustainability, while Russia also harvests significant quantities from the Bering Sea and the Sea of Okhotsk. Japan, though less dominant, imports and processes substantial amounts. The Stone King Crab fishery is economically important, supporting coastal communities and export markets, and is regulated to prevent overfishing and ensure long-term viability of the species.

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