Fishing

Pepys (Castell Brothers) · Board game · 1953
2–6 45 min
8.0 rating Ludopedia
5.0 rating BGG
Buy
8.0 rating Ludopedia
5.0 rating BGG
Our Verdict

Perfect for those seeking pure nostalgia and relaxing games without any mental strain.

Highlights
  • Charming vintage atmosphere
  • Extremely simple rules
  • Very relaxed game pace
  • Great for casual groups
Keep in mind
  • Luck completely dominates the game
  • Very little strategic depth
FOR GENRE FANS
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About the game
Get your gear ready and put on your hat, because Fishing is a dive into the nostalgia of the English countryside! Imagine the scene: you set off from the Fisherman's Arms inn and cross bucolic fields to reach the riverbank. The objective here is simple yet competitive: whoever lands the greatest total weight of fish wins. The board is a detailed grid where you move your pawn using a standard die, trying to reach the river's edge where various fish of different sizes are scattered.

The fishing dynamic is quite curious: once you are on the bank, you pick a fish that is in a direct line or diagonal from your position. If your die roll exactly matches the number of squares between you and the fish, congratulations, you've caught it! However, be careful, as the larger and more valuable fish usually require you to wade into the river, and wading is much slower than walking on land. To spice up the journey, there is the luck factor: rolling a six triggers a 'Hazard' card. These introduce fun mishaps, such as missing a turn to light your pipe or chat with a local farmer, or being sent to Parson's Field to meet a friend.

The game ends when the last Hazard card is drawn, at which point fishing is over and the race back to the inn begins. Final scoring combines the weight of the fish caught with bonus points for the first three players to return to the starting point. While it doesn't require complex strategies or quick reflexes, the game shines through its vintage charm, evoking that relaxing feeling of lazy summer afternoons in the country. It is the perfect kind of game for those who want something light and stress-free, where luck dictates the pace and atmosphere matters more than tactics.
BEST PLAYER COUNT
2 OK
3 OK
4 OK
5 OK
6 OK
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Game details

Categories

Families

Theme: Fishing / Angling
Publisher Pepys (Castell Brothers)
Designer (Uncredited)
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the game complex?
Not at all! It's a very simple 'roll and move' game, ideal for those who don't want to read massive rulebooks.
How many people can play?
From 2 to 6 players, making it great for family gatherings.
How long does a game take?
It usually lasts around 45 minutes.
Is it suitable for children?
Yes, due to its intuitive rules and reliance on luck, it's excellent for introducing board games to kids.
What happens if I roll a six?
You draw a Hazard card, which can hinder you or change your position on the map with funny events.