Top 5 Highest Fish Producing States in India

The fishing industry is a critical pillar of India’s economy, not only supporting millions of livelihoods but also contributing significantly to its export revenues. With an increasing global demand for seafood and fish products, India’s fisheries sector has seen tremendous growth over the years. The country’s diverse geography, ranging from a vast coastline to rivers and freshwater lakes, supports a thriving fishing industry. India’s fisheries industry also substantially contributes to food security. Here is the list of top fish producing states in India:

1. Andhra Pradesh

The first state on our list of the highest fish-producing states in India is Andhra Pradesh. With its long coastline along the Bay of Bengal and numerous freshwater resources, the state has capitalized on both marine and inland fisheries. Coastal fish farming, inland aquaculture (especially shrimp and prawn farming), and strong government support have propelled Andhra Pradesh to the top. The state fish production is significant amounting to 30 per cent of the country’s production. The major fish produced in Andhra Pradesh are Shrimp, carp, tilapia, and other freshwater and brackish water species.

2. West Bengal

West Bengal takes second place on the list of the largest fish-producing states in India. The state’s geographical advantage of being in line with the environs of the Bay of Bengal serves as a source of many fisheries products and by-catch. The state has a thriving inland fishing industry, particularly in the production of freshwater species. West Bengal also has a vibrant fish consumption culture, which supports the local market. The major fish species produced in West Bengal are Rohu, catla, hilsa, and other riverine fish. West Bengal has a production capacity of around 1.75 million tons; it contributes to nearly 16.75 per cent of India’s total fish production.

3. Gujarat

Gujarat has the longest coastline in India; it extends to around 1600 kilometers. The longest coastline of the state gives a significant advantage in marine fisheries. Veraval on the Saurashtra Coast is one of the major fish landing centers in Gujarat. Gujarat is also a major exporter of fish in India and contributes to 17 per cent of India’s total fish exports. Some of the major fish species grown in Gujarat are pomfret, ribbon fish, prawns and other high-demand and commercially valuable marine species. The state government implements programs to assist the fishing community, including providing assistance for purchasing equipment, training, and marketing that strengthens its position.

4. Kerala

The next state on our list of highest fish producers in India is Kerala. Kerala’s attractive coast and inland waterways support fishery business. It has a long-standing tradition in fisheries, thanks to its vast coastline along the Arabian Sea and a network of inland water bodies. People in Kerala also consume fish in large quantities paving the way for a strong local market. The key fish varieties are Sardines, mackerel, prawns, and freshwater species like pearl spot (karimeen). Kerala’s traditional fishing practices, combined with modern aquaculture techniques, have made it a key player in both inland and marine fisheries.

5. Tamil Nadu

The last state on our list of the most fish-producing states in India is Tamil Nadu. Tamil Nadu has a well-developed fishing sector, both in terms of marine and inland fisheries. Its coastline along the Bay of Bengal and numerous inland water resources contribute to its high production rates. The major fish varieties produced in the state are Mackerel, sardines, tuna, and inland species like carp. Tamil Nadu contributes a significant portion of India’s marine fish production and is also growing its inland aquaculture sector through various reforms in fishery.

Conclusion

Well established fishing sector in India can be attributed to its long coastline and vast aquatic resources across various states. Andhra Pradesh, West Bengal, Gujarat, Kerala and Tamil Nadu are the five highest fish-producing states in India. West Bengal leads in the fishing industry with its robust inland fishery production while Andhra Pradesh excels in aquaculture, particularly shrimp farming. On the other hand, Gujarat’s extensive coastline supports a thriving marine fishery industry. Finally, Kerala and Tamil Nadu are well-known for their rich marine biodiversity and traditional fishing communities. Together these states drive India’s position as the world’s leading fish producer, promoting livelihood and enhancing food security across the nation.