The Volga pikeperch (Sander volgensis), also known as the Volga zander, is a freshwater predatory fish native to the river systems of Eastern Europe and Western Asia, particularly the Volga River basin. Smaller and less famed than its close relative, the common zander (Sander lucioperca), the Volga pikeperch is prized for its firm, white flesh and is a significant target for both commercial and recreational fisheries. The top countries harvesting Volga pikeperch are Russia, Ukraine, and Kazakhstan, where the species is found in abundance in large rivers, reservoirs, and connected lakes. Russia leads in both wild capture and aquaculture production, with the fish supporting local economies along the Volga and Don rivers. Ukraine and Kazakhstan also maintain active fisheries for this species, contributing to regional fish markets and export. The Volga pikeperch industry is characterized by traditional net fishing, modern aquaculture initiatives, and a growing interest in sustainable management due to pressures from overfishing and habitat changes.
| Rank | Country | Metric Tons |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Hungary | 11 |
Data from FAO. 2025. Global Capture Production. In: Fisheries and Aquaculture.