Top Wels Som Catfish Fishing Countries

The Wels catfish (Silurus glanis), also known as the Wels som, is one of Europe’s largest freshwater fish, capable of reaching lengths over 2.5 meters (8 feet) and weights exceeding 100 kg (220 lbs). This predatory species is native to Eastern Europe and the basins of the Danube, Volga, and Dnieper rivers, but has been introduced to many other European waters. The top countries renowned for Wels catfish fishing include Hungary, Spain, Italy, Germany, and France. In these countries, the Wels catfish supports both recreational and commercial fisheries, with the Ebro River in Spain and the Po River in Italy being especially famous for trophy-sized catches that attract anglers worldwide. While commercial harvests are modest compared to other fish species, Wels catfish are valued for their size, sporting challenge, and culinary uses, making them an important part of the freshwater fishing industry in these regions.

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