20 Best Fishing Mini-Games, Ranked

Fishing has become a popular addition to video games of all types. It offers players a relaxing change of pace from intense action, while still requiring some skill and planning. Some games include fishing as a simple extra, but others create detailed and engaging fishing systems. Whether it’s in calm, story-driven games or huge role-playing adventures, these fishing experiences are often surprisingly enjoyable and add a lot to the game world.

Yakuza 0

Yakuza 0’s fishing mini-game offers a relaxing break from the game’s action-packed fights. It’s surprisingly engaging thanks to its easy-to-learn, timing-based gameplay. You can fish at different locations around the city, collecting items and trying to catch rare fish to complete challenges. The simple, rhythmic button presses are rewarding if you’re patient, and the mini-game blends seamlessly with the other side activities in the game.

Torchlight II

Torchlight II features a fun fishing mini-game where players can turn their catches into special abilities and improvements for their pets. You can find fishing spots throughout the game and use different bait to try and catch specific fish. This system adds an interesting strategic element, as certain fish can temporarily make your pets stronger in battles. It’s a welcome change of pace from fighting monsters in dungeons.

Hades

Hades includes a fun fishing game that players can use to take a break between challenging levels. After defeating enemies, you can equip a fishing rod and try to catch fish from shimmering spots. These fish aren’t just for show – you can trade them for useful items, making fishing a worthwhile activity. Catching each fish requires quick reflexes, adding a bit of excitement to the process.

Fable II

Fable II features a delightful and easy-to-play fishing game created by Lionhead Studios. It’s connected to the game’s treasure hunting, and as players explore the world of Albion, they can fish up items, keys, and unique fish by carefully balancing a tension meter. This feels like a natural part of exploring and gives players a good reason to check every body of water for hidden goodies.

Fire Emblem: Three Houses

Fire Emblem: Three Houses now includes a fishing mini-game that fits well with the game’s daily life elements. Players can fish in the monastery’s pond to get ingredients for cooking or to complete quests. The quality of the fish you catch depends on how well you time button presses, and using different bait can affect your results, adding a surprising amount of depth to the activity. It really feels like a normal part of life at the monastery.

Genshin Impact

Genshin Impact’s fishing system has been greatly improved into a complete mini-game. Now, players can use special fishing rods to catch different types of fish depending on the region they’re in, and even complete quests related to fishing. Successfully catching fish requires paying attention to their behavior and mastering timing and tension control. Players can then trade their catches for weapons and other exclusive rewards, adding more depth to exploring the game world.

World of Warcraft

World of Warcraft has a well-developed fishing system that’s been expanded over the years. Players can level up their fishing ability, catch uncommon fish, and even compete in tournaments. Fishing connects to other parts of the game like cooking, unlocking achievements, and seasonal celebrations, making it a peaceful and satisfying activity for players.

Rune Factory 4

Rune Factory 4 has a well-developed fishing system that ties into other gameplay elements like farming, crafting, and building relationships with townspeople. Players can catch a wide variety of fish depending on the season and where they fish, and these fish aren’t just for show – they’re used in cooking and to fulfill requests from others. The fishing minigame itself is engaging, requiring players to time their button presses to successfully reel in their catch.

The Legend of Zelda: Twilight Princess

The Legend of Zelda: Twilight Princess includes a beloved fishing mini-game. It’s set in a dedicated pond and gives players realistic control over their fishing rod. The fish behave naturally, and the environments are beautiful. Landing bigger fish takes skill and a steady hand, making it a consistently popular and memorable side activity in the Zelda series.

Red Dead Redemption 2

Red Dead Redemption 2 features a surprisingly realistic fishing system. Players need to choose the right bait and lures based on the weather and the type of fish they’re trying to catch. Different fish behave in unique ways, so mastering the right technique is key. Fishing isn’t just a fun diversion; it also helps with challenges, crafting, and provides a relaxing way to experience the game’s world.

Final Fantasy XV

Final Fantasy XV features a surprisingly detailed fishing system created by Square Enix. Players can collect different rods and lines, and each type of fish is unique to its region. While reeling in a big catch, you control Noctis as he fights against the fish’s strength. You can also improve your fishing gear and complete quests to become a master angler, making fishing a rewarding pastime throughout the game.

Animal Crossing: New Horizons

Animal Crossing: New Horizons’ fishing is a fun daily activity with lots to discover. You watch for fish shadows, cast your line, and reel them in when they bite. You can then donate your catches to the museum, sell them for bells, or show them off! Regular fishing tournaments also give you extra challenges and rewards, keeping things interesting.

Stardew Valley

Stardew Valley’s fishing is a fun mini-game where you time a vertical bar to catch different types of fish. Better fishing rods and bait make it easier to catch harder-to-find fish. Once you get the hang of it, fishing becomes a key part of farm life, helping you cook, complete collections, and earn money.

Persona 5 Royal

Persona 5 Royal includes a fun fishing mini-game where you use different baits and press buttons at the right time, depending on how the fish are acting. You can fish in the pond in Kichijoji to get points and earn rewards. Catching bigger fish takes skill, as you’ll need to time your actions and manage your stamina. The mini-game also fits well with the game’s focus on managing your time effectively.

Tales of Arise

Tales of Arise features a detailed fishing system across its various regions, each with its own types of fish and best fishing spots. Players can try out different lures and techniques to reel them in. Fishing isn’t just a fun side activity – it provides ingredients for cooking and unlocks collectible records, making it a worthwhile addition to your adventures.

Final Fantasy XIV

Final Fantasy XIV features a surprisingly detailed fishing system. Players can explore diverse areas, upgrade their gear, and catch unique fish that only appear in certain weather conditions. It’s more than just a side activity – players collect rare fish to complete challenges, create items, and fulfill quests. The depth of the system makes fishing a truly engaging profession within the game.

The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time

I still think about the fishing pond in Ocarina of Time! It was one of the first times a game really made fishing fun for me. Catching different sizes of fish, seeing how they all acted, and trying to win that special prize kept me coming back. It was such a nice, relaxing break from all the serious stuff Link was doing, and honestly, it spoiled me – no other fishing mini-game has quite measured up since!

Monster Hunter: World

Monster Hunter: World features a fishing minigame where players can collect ingredients and items from different environments. Fishing isn’t just a relaxing break; it helps complete research and find rare collectibles. While easy to learn, it encourages you to explore the game world between hunts and provides useful resources without slowing down the action.

Yakuza: Like a Dragon

Yakuza: Like a Dragon now includes fun new ways to collect items – both a fast-paced, can-collecting mini-game and relaxing fishing segments. These activities let players earn money, useful items, and progress towards completing the game. Success in both relies on good timing and quick reflexes, providing a welcome change of pace from the game’s battles.

Legend of the River King

Legend of the River King, created by Natsume, uniquely built an entire game around fishing. Unlike games where fishing is just a side activity, it’s the main focus here. Players improve their skills by experimenting with different bait and fishing rods in various locations, all while keeping an eye on their stamina. The game’s entire system is designed around becoming a better angler, and it’s still considered one of the first and most committed fishing games ever made.

Share your favorite fishing mini-game experiences in the comments.

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2025-11-20 02:46