Top Witch Flounder Fishing Countries

The witch flounder (Glyptocephalus cynoglossus), also known as witch or Torbay sole, is a deepwater flatfish found in the North Atlantic, prized for its delicate, mild-flavored white flesh. This species inhabits muddy seabeds at depths ranging from 100 to 1,500 meters. The top witch flounder fishing countries are primarily located in the North Atlantic, with the most significant harvests coming from Norway, Iceland, the United Kingdom, and Canada. These nations operate well-developed demersal trawl fisheries targeting witch flounder alongside other groundfish species. The fishery is regulated through quotas and management measures to prevent overfishing, as witch flounder populations grow relatively slowly. The catch is mainly processed for export, supporting both local economies and international seafood markets.

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