The Most Common Fish to Catch – Learn What Are the Most Popular Types Around the World

Blake Shaw

March 30, 2023

Fishes

If there’s one thing anglers can agree on, it’s that catching fish is a reel thrill! And when it comes to the most common fish to catch, there is more than one specie that always seems to be biting. So, let’s dive into the deep end and explore the top catches of the day.

Carp Is the Most Common Fish to Catch in Europe and Asia

There are many different types of fishing you can try, but if you are a fan of freshwater and live in Europe and Asia, be prepared to deal with carp, like a lot. After all, it is a popular catch for anglers in these regions, with many considering it to be one of the best-tasting freshwater fish.

They can be found in a variety of water bodies, including rivers, lakes, and ponds, and they are known for their hard-fighting nature, making them a favorite among sports fishermen. Carp are typically caught using a variety of techniques, including bottom fishing with baits such as corn, boilies, or worms, and fly fishing with nymphs and other artificial flies.

There are several different types of carp, each with its own unique characteristics and habitat preferences:

  • Common carp can grow quite large, with some specimens reaching weights of over 50 pounds.
  • Mirror carp is a variation of the common carp that is known for its large, reflective scales.
  • Leather carp have smoother, almost scale-less skin and prefer slow-moving or still waters.
  • Grass carp can grow quite large, with some specimens reaching lengths of over 4 feet.
  • Silver carp are known for their leaping ability, which can make them a challenging catch for anglers.

Tips for Catching a Grass Carp

What is fishing, if not a way to boost your confidence? And what better way to do it if not to catch as much fish as you can, that’s why here are some tips for catching carp:

  • Use the right bait, such as corn, boilies, bread, worms, and maggots.
  • Choose the right fishing gear. A medium to heavy fishing rod and a durable reel with a strong line are the way to go.
  • Use stealth because they have keen senses and can be easily spooked.
Happy angler holds big carp fish (Cyprinus carpio) and smiles. Astrakhan region, Russia
What is the most common fish to catch? The answer just might be carp

Tilapia Is Very Popular in Africa, Asia, and South America

This freshwater fish is widely distributed throughout Africa, Asia, and South America. It is known for its mild, white flesh and versatility in cooking. If you are catching Tilapia for food you should know that it has high amounts of  omega-3 fatty acids. Even higher than pork and beef.

Tilapia are typically found in warm, shallow waters, including rivers, lakes, and ponds. They are omnivorous, feeding on both plants and small aquatic animals, and they are known for their adaptability to a variety of different habitats.

Tips for Catching Tilapia Fish

When you are ready to fish, use small baits because Tilapia has a small mouth. Try baits such as worms, insects, or small pieces of bread. It would be best if you also considered using light tackle, such as a light spinning rod and reel with a 4-8 lb test line.

fisherman showcasing tilapia fish
Most popular fish to catch? Tilapia is a very popular and very tasty

You Can Find Trout in North America, Europe, and Asia

Trouts are highly prized by anglers for their fighting ability, beautiful colors, and delicious flesh. There are several different types of trout, each with their own specific characteristics. Here are some of the most common types and where they are typically found:

  • Rainbow trout is native to North America but has been introduced to many other parts of the world. They are commonly found in streams, rivers, and lakes and are known for their beautiful, iridescent coloration.
  • Brown trout is native to Europe. They are typically found in cool, clear streams and rivers and are known for their wily behavior and ability to elude anglers.
  • Brook trout is native to eastern North America. They are commonly found in cold, clear streams and are known for their beautiful coloration and aggressive feeding behavior.
  • Cutthroat trout are native to western North America and are typically found in cold, clear mountain streams. They are known for their distinctive red or orange slashes on their throats and their aggressive feeding behavior.

When you want to catch trout look for it in colder waters. The fish usually lives in temperatures that go from 50 to 60 F (10 to 16C). They are also classified as oily fish, meaning that they have oil in their tissues. Trout can also be an excellent source of good vitamins such as B1, B6, and B12.

Jumping rainbow trout
Eating Trout can be good for your health

You Can Catch Catfish in Asia as Well as North and South America

Catfish are highly valued for their delicious, white flesh and are often caught for both sport and food. There are several different types of catfish, each with its own unique characteristics. If you want to catch it, here are some of the most common types and where they are typically found:

  • Channel catfish are native to North America and are commonly found in rivers, lakes, and ponds. They are known for their excellent taste and are popular game fish.
  • Blue catfish are also native to North America and are typically found in large rivers and reservoirs. They are known for their large size and hard-fighting nature.
  • Flathead catfish are native to North America and are typically found in warm, slow-moving rivers and lakes. They are known for their large size and aggressive feeding behavior.
  • Asian catfish includes the giant Mekong catfish, which can grow up to 10 feet in length. Asian catfish are highly valued for their meat and are often raised in aquaculture operations.

Tips for Catching Catfish

When you are ready to go fishing for this widely popular fish you should choose the right bait. Catfish are bottom feeders and prefer bait such as worms or chicken liver. It’s important to use strong-smelling baits that can attract their attention.

Also, since catfish are strong and can put up a good fight, it’s important to use heavy tackle. A medium to heavy fishing rod and reel with at least a 20 lb test line is a good choice.

Redtail catfish swimming
Catching catfish entails choosing the right equipment

Tuna Can Be Caught in the World’s Oceans

If we were comparing fish to cars (crazy I know, but stay with me), tuna would be known as a Ferrari of the ocean. This is a fish that is slick and powerful. It moves through the water like a torpedo and it can cruise oceans with unbelievable efficiency.

That being said, tuna is a highly prized saltwater fish that is found throughout the world’s oceans. It is a popular fish to catch and eat in many regions of the world, and it is known for its firm, flavorful flesh.

There are several different types of tuna you should know about:

  • Bluefin tuna are highly valued for their meat. They are known for their large size and can grow up to 1,000 pounds.
  • Yellowfin tuna are typically smaller than bluefin tuna, with a maximum weight of around 400 pounds.
  • Albacore tuna are known for their light, delicate flavor and are often used in sushi.
  • Skipjack tuna are smaller than other types of tuna, with a maximum weight of around 30 pounds.

Tips for Catching Tuna

Landing yourself a Ferrari of the ocean will take a bit of preparation and dedication. If you want to catch tuna you should first use the right bait. Luckily, you can use a variety of baits including live bait, artificial lures, and chunk baits.

Also, keep in mind that tunas are strong and fast-swimming fish, so it’s important to use heavy tackle. A heavy-duty fishing rod and reel with at least a 50 lb test line is a good choice for most tuna fishing.

Underwater wild world with tuna fishes
Tuna is as delicious as it is powerful

Salmon Can Be Found in Both Saltwater and Freshwater Environments

Salmon is a highly prized fish that is found throughout the world. It is a popular fish to catch and eat in many regions of the world, and it is known for its rich, flavorful flesh. These fishes have sleek bodies that change color during the mating season.

There are several different types of salmon, and here are some of the most common types:

  • Chinook (King) salmon are found in the Pacific Ocean and are highly prized for their large size and rich flavor. They are also known as King salmon and can weigh over 100 pounds.
  • Coho (Silver) salmon are also found in the Pacific Ocean and are known for their bright, silver coloration. They are typically smaller than Chinook salmon, with a maximum weight of around 30 pounds.
  • Atlantic salmon are found in the North Atlantic Ocean and are commonly raised in aquaculture operations. They are known for their delicate, flavorful flesh and are highly valued by chefs and food enthusiasts.
  • Sockeye (Red) salmon are found in the Pacific Ocean and are known for their bright, red flesh. They are typically smaller than Chinook salmon, with a maximum weight of around 10 pounds.

Tips for Fishing Salmon

If you want to catch salmon, you should take all the help you can get. I would recommend not starting your adventure before you find the right bait. Luckily salmon can be caught on a variety of baits, including flies, spinners, and baitfish.

Next is to find the right tackle. Remember, salmon are strong fish and can put up a good fight, so it’s important to use the right tackle. A medium to heavy fishing rod and reel with at least 10-12 lb test line is a good choice for most salmon fishing.

An Atlantic salmon jumps out of the water
Freshwater fishing for salmon and saltwater fishing can equally be satisfying

Figure Out What’s the Most Common Fish to Catch in Your Area and Get Ready for an Adventure

So, there you have it, whether you’re an avid angler or just dipping your toes into the world of fishing, knowing the most common fish to catch in your area can be the key to unlocking a world of adventure. With a little bit of research and preparation, you’ll be ready to reel in some fin-tastic catches and make a splash in the fishing scene.

So grab your gear, hit the water, and remember – the fish may be biting, but it’s your wit and skill that will land you the biggest catch of all: a great fishing story to tell. Happy fishing!

Frequently Asked Questions About Most Common Fish to Catch

What’s the Most Common Fish Caught?

The answer to the question What is the most common fish to catch in the world is not easy to find. Among the most common species are largemouth bass, crappie, walleye, and trout. However, this will depend on the location you are in.

What’s the Easiest Fish to Catch?

Crappie is the easiest to catch. Numerous novice fishers target crappies because they are plentiful, moderately sized, and have a high chance of biting the bait. Among all the fish mentioned, crappies, particularly the black crappie, rank as the simplest to hook.

What Are the Most Common Freshwater Fish To Catch?

Largemouth bass reign supreme among freshwater game fish in the United States. They are not only among the most populous aquatic creatures globally but also quite straightforward to hook, making them a favorite catch for freshwater fishing enthusiasts everywhere.