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The Sea of Japan (also known as the East Sea) is a productive fishing ground, and a variety of fish species are harvested there. The most commonly and commercially important types include:
Pelagic (Open Ocean) Fish:
* Japanese Sardine (Iwashi): Historically a very abundant catch, though populations have fluctuated.
* Japanese Anchovy (Katakuchi-iwashi): Another important small pelagic fish.
* Japanese Chub Mackerel (Saba): A widely consumed and commercially significant species.
* Japanese Jack Mackerel (Aji): Also a popular food fish.
* Pacific Saury (Sanma): Caught almost exclusively with stick-held dipnets, often using lights to lure them.
* Japanese Flying Squid (Surume-ika): A major cephalopod catch, typically using mechanized jigging with lights.
* Japanese Amberjack/Yellowtail (Buri/Kanpachi): Highly valued, both wild-caught and increasingly through aquaculture.
* Japanese Spanish Mackerel (Sawara): A prized fish with a distinct flavor.
* Herring (Nishin): While populations have declined significantly since historical highs, it remains a harvested species.
* Salmon and Trout (Sake/Masu): Various species are caught, particularly in the northern and southwestern areas during their migrations.
* Sea Bream (Tai): Several species are included, often highly valued in Japanese cuisine.
Demersal (Bottom-Dwelling) Fish:
* Alaska Pollock (たら/たらこ – Mentaiko when roe): A major commercial species, used for various products including fish roe.
* Cod (Tara): Several cod species are present.
* Atka Mackerel (Hokke): An important demersal fish in the northern part of the Sea of Japan.
* Various Flounders and Soles (Hirame/Karei): Different flatfish species are harvested.
* Rockfish (Kasago/Mebaru): A diverse group of bottom fish.
Other Notable Catches:
* Crabs (Kani): Including Snow Crab (Zuwaigani), Red King Crab (Tarabagani – though not native and its impact is a concern), and others.
* Shrimp (Ebi): Various types of shrimp are harvested.
It’s important to note that the abundance and importance of these species can change over time due to factors like fishing pressure, climate change, and natural population fluctuations. Recent reports indicate declines in the catches of some historically significant species like Pacific Saury and Japanese Flying Squid.

Video courtesy of Eurex

Video courtesy of Eurex