Bracken fern (Pteridium aquilinum (L.) Kuhn) is an invasive species with significant ecological and economic impacts, making its detection and mapping critical for effective management. This study reviews remote sensing techniques for mapping P. aquilinum from 1996 to 2023. A total of 32 peer-reviewed articles were selected from Web of Science (WOS) and Scopus following the screening of 1,612 retrieved records. Bibliometric analysis, using VOSviewer software and Social Network Analysis (SNA), explored Keyword relationships, author collaborations, and institutional contributions. The research output shows fluctuations, publication gaps, and a resurgence in interest post 2021. Most studies (28%) were conducted in North America and Europe, with 26% originating from Africa. Key sensors identified include Landsat, Worldview-2, SPOT-5, and Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs). Recent advancements demonstrated the effectiveness of high-resolution optical sensors and machine-learning models in improving detection accuracy. However, challenges remain, including data limitations, methodological inconsistencies, and classification accuracy issues. This review emphasizes the need for higher-resolution imagery, advanced machine learning approaches, and standardized methodologies for improved P. aquilinum monitoring. Enhanced detection methods are crucial for effective ecological management, early intervention, and mitigating the spread of P. aquilinum.