Top West African Spanish Mackerel Fishing Countries

The West African Spanish mackerel (*Scomberomorus tritor*) is a fast-swimming, predatory fish found along the Atlantic coast of West Africa, prized for its firm, flavorful flesh and significant role in regional diets and economies. This species is commonly harvested by both artisanal and industrial fisheries, with the top fishing countries including Senegal, Ghana, Côte d’Ivoire, Nigeria, and Mauritania. These nations have long traditions of mackerel fishing, employing a mix of small-scale canoes and larger commercial vessels, and the catch is consumed locally or exported regionally. The Spanish mackerel fishery supports thousands of livelihoods, but faces challenges from overfishing and inadequate management, making sustainable practices increasingly important for the future of this valuable West African resource.

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