India’s marine fish catch up 3% in 2025; mackerel tops landings: CMFRI

India’s marine fish production in 2025 reached 35.7 lakh tonnes, a slight 3% increase over 2024 landings, according to an assessment by the ICAR-Central Marine Fisheries Research Institute (CMFRI).

Tamil Nadu surged to the top position, overtaking Gujarat with 6.85 lakh tonnes, while Gujarat slipped to second place after a 15% decline, largely due to adverse weather, extended fishing bans, and cyclonic disturbances. Kerala remained in third position, with a marginal 2% increase in marine fish landings.

CMFRI’s annual marine fish landing estimates showed that Indian mackerel remained the most landed resource in the country at 2.70 lakh tonnes, followed by cephalopods at 2.57 lakh tonnes and oil sardine at 2.53 lakh tonnes. Cephalopods and threadfin breams recorded 25% and 55% growth respectively—both reaching decadal-high levels. Pelagic fish dominated the catch with a 54% share, followed by demersal resources, crustaceans, and molluscs.


Among major states, Karnataka recorded an impressive 44% surge in landings following a steep decline in 2024. Maharashtra also posted a strong growth of 18%.

“Favourable environmental conditions played a crucial role in supporting the revival of small pelagic fish stocks during the period. This ecological advantage was further reinforced by regulated fishing pressure, leading to the necessary time and space for recovery," said Dr Grinson George, Director of CMFRI.

Economic value
Marine fish landings generated an estimated Rs 69,254 crore at landing centres across the country (up 10.45%) and Rs 97,702 crore at the retail level (up 8.43%), indicating strong market demand. National marketing efficiency improved to 70.88%, with Kerala recording the highest marketing efficiency (72.83%).

The Fishery Resources Assessment, Economics and Extension Division of the CMFRI estimated the annual marine fish landings of the country through its online data collection system.