Fishing games have a magic that hooks you—pun intended. Whether it’s the serene ripple of a virtual lake or the thrill of reeling in a monster bass, these games offer a perfect blend of relaxation and challenge. As someone who spent countless summer evenings casting lines with my dad on a quiet lake, I’ve always been drawn to fishing games that capture that peaceful yet exhilarating vibe. In 2025, the genre is thriving with hyper-realistic simulators, cozy indie titles, and competitive multiplayer experiences. This article dives into the 10 best fishing games to play this year, each offering unique mechanics, stunning visuals, and hours of immersive fun. From tranquil solo adventures to intense online tournaments, here’s your guide to the top fishing games that’ll keep you hooked.
1. Ultimate Fishing Simulator 3
The Gold Standard in Fishing Realism
After its full release in May 2025, Ultimate Fishing Simulator 3 has cemented itself as the go-to choice for hardcore anglers. With over 50 real-world locations, dynamic weather, and AI-driven fish behavior, it feels like you’re on the water. Its variety of fishing styles—fly, spin, and ice—makes every cast a new adventure.
Why It Stands Out
- Realistic Mechanics: Advanced physics mimic real-world casting and reeling.
- Global Locations: Fish in Thailand’s Blue Bay or Russian lakes.
- Customization: Tailor rods, reels, and lures to your style.
Where to Play
Available on Steam for PC, PS5, and Xbox Series X/S. Check ultimatefishingsimulator.com for updates.
2. Fishing Planet
Free-to-Play Fishing Done Right
Fishing Planet remains a fan favorite in 2025 for its free-to-play model and ultra-realistic gameplay. With over 200 fish species and 20+ global fisheries, it’s a deep dive into angling. Created by anglers, it nails the nuances of bait selection and water conditions.
Key Features
- Realism First: Dynamic day/night cycles and weather affect fish behavior.
- Multiplayer Fun: Compete in online tournaments or fish with friends.
- Free with Caveats: Optional DLCs enhance gear but can get pricey.
How to Get It
Download free on Steam or fishingplanet.com. Available on PS4 and mobile.
3. Call of the Wild: The Angler
Open-World Fishing Adventure
Developed by Expansive Worlds, Call of the Wild: The Angler offers a stunning open-world experience. Its 2025 updates add new reserves and cross-platform multiplayer for up to 12 players. Perfect for those who want to explore and fish with friends.
What Makes It Special
- Gorgeous Maps: Fish in breathtaking, real-world-inspired environments.
- Social Gameplay: Crossplay makes it easy to join friends.
- Rare Catches: Hunt for gold and diamond fish for extra rewards.
Where to Find It
Available on PC, PS5, and Xbox Series X/S via expansiveworlds.com.
4. Bassmaster Fishing 2025
Competitive Angling at Its Best
Bassmaster Fishing 2025 brings the thrill of professional bass fishing to your screen. With eight real-world venues and new multiplayer modes, it’s perfect for competitive players. The Unreal Engine powers its seasonal weather and vibrant visuals.
Why It’s a Must-Play
- Pro Circuit: Climb ranks to become a champion angler.
- Global Leaderboards: Compete in online tournaments.
- Licensed Gear: Use real-world brands for authenticity.
Platforms and Access
Play on PC, PS5, and Xbox Series X/S. Visit bassmaster.com for details.
5. The Catch: Carp & Coarse
Hunt for Boss Fish
Dovetail Games’ The Catch: Carp & Coarse shines with its focus on unique “Boss Fish” and five diverse locations. Its 2025 updates add online leagues and new fish species, making it a versatile choice for solo and competitive players.
Standout Elements
- Variety of Modes: Solo trips, events, and multiplayer leagues.
- Unique Challenges: Over 100 Boss Fish to hunt.
- Realistic Environments: Stunning lakes and rivers.
Where to Play
Available on Steam, PS5, and Xbox Series X/S. Check dovetailgames.com.
6. Dredge: Complete Edition
A Fishing RPG with a Dark Twist
Dredge: Complete Edition blends fishing with cosmic horror, offering a narrative-driven adventure. Its eerie atmosphere and PS1-style graphics make it unforgettable. The 2025 edition includes all DLCs for a richer experience.
Why It’s Unique
- Story-Driven: Uncover mysteries in a haunting archipelago.
- Simple Mechanics: Easy-to-learn fishing with deep upgrades.
- Atmospheric Vibes: Perfect for fans of cozy yet spooky games.
How to Access
Available on PC, Nintendo Switch, PS5, and Xbox. Visit dredge.game.
7. Webfishing
Cozy Fishing with Friends
Webfishing is a charming indie title where you play as a cat or dog fishing on a quirky island. Its simple mechanics and chatroom-style multiplayer make it ideal for relaxed sessions with friends. The 2025 update adds new maps and co-op support.
Key Highlights
- Social Fun: Fish and chat with up to 12 players.
- Cute Aesthetic: Customizable animal avatars add charm.
- Laid-Back Pace: Perfect for casual gamers.
Where to Get It
Download on Steam or lamedeveloper.com for PC and Nintendo Switch.
8. Fishing Sim World: Pro Tour
Become an Elite Angler
Fishing Sim World: Pro Tour focuses on competitive fishing with a career mode and online PvP. Its “Total Cast Control” system offers precise mechanics, while 2025 updates add new lakes and gear for a polished experience.
What Sets It Apart
- Competitive Edge: Online tournaments and leaderboards.
- Realistic Controls: Physics-based casting system.
- Career Mode: Build your angler’s legacy.
Platforms
Available on PC, PS4, PS5, and Xbox. Check dovetailgames.com.
9. Cast n Chill
Pixel-Art Serenity
Cast n Chill is a cozy pixel-art game set along the Goldenfork River. With 13 hand-crafted locations and 50+ fish species, it’s perfect for players seeking a relaxing escape. Its 2025 updates promise local co-op and new maps.
Why It’s Charming
- Relaxed Gameplay: Simple mechanics for stress-free fishing.
- Narrative Touch: Learn from locals like Rusty the bait shop owner.
- Indie Appeal: Pixel-art visuals create a nostalgic vibe.
Where to Play
Available on Steam and Nintendo Switch. Visit castnchill.com.
10. Real Fishing VR 2025
Immersive VR Angling
Real Fishing VR 2025 takes fishing to new depths with VR support and haptic feedback. Its realistic mechanics and cross-platform multiplayer make it a standout for VR enthusiasts. Fish in 20+ locations with dynamic weather.
Key Features
- VR Immersion: Feel every cast and reel with haptic controls.
- Multiplayer: Compete or relax with friends online.
- Variety: Over 100 fish species across global locations.
How to Access
Available on Oculus, SteamVR, and PSVR 2. Check realfishingvr.com.
Comparison of Top Fishing Games
Game | Platform | Price | Key Feature | Realism | Multiplayer |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Ultimate Fishing Simulator 3 | PC, PS5, Xbox | $39.99 | 50+ real-world locations | High | Yes |
Fishing Planet | PC, PS4, Mobile | Free (DLCs) | 200+ fish species | High | Yes |
Call of the Wild: The Angler | PC, PS5, Xbox | $29.99 | Open-world exploration | Medium | Yes |
Bassmaster Fishing 2025 | PC, PS5, Xbox | $34.99 | Competitive tournaments | High | Yes |
The Catch: Carp & Coarse | PC, PS5, Xbox | $24.99 | Boss Fish challenges | Medium | Yes |
Dredge: Complete Edition | PC, Switch, PS5, Xbox | $29.99 | Narrative-driven horror | Low | No |
Webfishing | PC, Switch | $14.99 | Cozy multiplayer | Low | Yes |
Fishing Sim World: Pro Tour | PC, PS4, PS5, Xbox | $19.99 | Total Cast Control | High | Yes |
Cast n Chill | PC, Switch | $12.99 | Pixel-art relaxation | Low | Soon |
Real Fishing VR 2025 | VR (Oculus, SteamVR, PSVR 2) | $29.99 | VR immersion | High | Yes |
Pros and Cons of Fishing Games in 2025
Pros
- Diverse Experiences: From realistic sims to cozy indies, there’s a game for every mood.
- Stunning Visuals: Unreal Engine and VR tech create immersive worlds.
- Social Features: Multiplayer modes let you fish with friends globally.
- Accessibility: Free-to-play options like Fishing Planet lower the entry barrier.
Cons
- Paywalls: DLCs and microtransactions in free games can add up.
- Learning Curve: Realistic sims may overwhelm casual players.
- Niche Appeal: Not every gamer enjoys the slow pace of fishing.
People Also Ask (PAA)
What is the most realistic fishing game in 2025?
Ultimate Fishing Simulator 3 and Fishing Planet lead for realism, with advanced physics, AI-driven fish behavior, and dynamic weather. Both mimic real-world angling closely.
Where can I play fishing games for free?
Fishing Planet is free on Steam, PS4, and mobile, though DLCs cost extra. Fishing Simulator 2025 is another free mobile option via the App Store.
Are there VR fishing games in 2025?
Yes, Real Fishing VR 2025 offers immersive VR fishing with haptic feedback, available on Oculus, SteamVR, and PSVR 2.
Which fishing game is best for multiplayer?
Call of the Wild: The Angler and Bassmaster Fishing 2025 excel with cross-platform multiplayer and competitive modes, respectively.
Why Fishing Games Are Thriving in 2025
Fishing games have carved out a unique niche, blending relaxation with challenge. I remember sinking hours into Sega Bass Fishing as a kid, feeling the rush of landing a big one with just a Dreamcast controller. Today’s titles take that joy to new heights with VR, multiplayer, and hyper-realistic mechanics. The genre’s growth—projected to hit $1.2 billion by 2027—shows its universal appeal. Whether you’re a seasoned angler or a casual gamer, 2025’s fishing games offer something special.
The Evolution of Fishing Games
From arcade classics like Rapala Pro Fishing to modern sims, fishing games have evolved with technology. The 2025 lineup includes VR titles, open-world adventures, and narrative-driven experiences like Dredge. Developers are also adding sustainability themes, as seen in upcoming titles like EcoFishing: Nature’s Balance.
Tips for Choosing Your Fishing Game
- Define Your Style: Want realism? Go for Ultimate Fishing Simulator 3. Prefer cozy? Try Webfishing.
- Check Platforms: Ensure the game supports your device (PC, console, VR, or mobile).
- Budget Wisely: Free games like Fishing Planet are great but watch for DLC costs.
- Join Communities: Reddit’s r/FishingPlanet or Discord servers offer tips and camaraderie.
FAQ
What’s the best fishing game for beginners?
Webfishing and Cast n Chill are great for beginners due to their simple mechanics and cozy vibes.
Are there free fishing games in 2025?
Yes, Fishing Planet and Fishing Simulator 2025 are free on Steam and mobile, respectively, with optional in-game purchases.
Which fishing game has the best graphics?
Call of the Wild: The Angler and Ultimate Fishing Simulator 3 boast stunning visuals powered by Unreal Engine.
Can I play fishing games with friends?
Call of the Wild: The Angler, Webfishing, and Bassmaster Fishing 2025 offer robust multiplayer modes.
Are there fishing games with a story?
Dredge: Complete Edition combines fishing with a compelling, eerie narrative.
Final Thoughts
Fishing games in 2025 are more than just digital pastimes—they’re gateways to serene lakes, competitive tournaments, and even cosmic mysteries. Whether you’re casting lines in Ultimate Fishing Simulator 3’s hyper-realistic waters or chilling with friends in Webfishing, there’s a game to suit every angler. So grab your virtual rod, pick your favorite title, and dive into the relaxing yet thrilling world of fishing games. Happy angling!