Fishing Guide

As a secondary skill, fishing fills its own unique space in World of Warcraft. Although it is essentially a gathering skill akin to skinning, herbalism, or mining, the mechanics of the skill make it almost like a mini-game. Just like the real-life corresponding, to become a master fisherman you'll have to spend noteworthy time standing next to bodies of water while holding a fishing pole. Catching a fish will be a test of your reaction time, as you have to right-click the bobber instantaneously after you see it dip into the water indicating you've caught something.

Along with the requisite marine life such as fish, eels, and squid, you also might haul up some odds and ends from time to time - including even valuable items, some of which may only be caught by fishing. The fish you catch can be eaten on their own to regain health, or they can be used in cooking recipes. The cooked fish will often provide useful effects when eaten.

And, like any real-life fisherman will tell you, part of the appeal of fishing is its inherent relaxing nature. Finding a perfect fishing spot, secluded from other players and (hopefully) enemies, while surrounded by beautiful scenery - it's a perfect way to take a break from your adventures in the World of Warcraft! Once you have made your cast, a fishing bobber will appear. Move your mouse over the fishing bobber, which should reveal the standard loot/interaction icon.

You must now wait until the fishing bobber moves and you see a splash. Fishing requires patience. It's not for everybody. A timer will appear and begin counting down after you cast. The timer indicates the length of your current cast. After the timer is up, you'll have to cast again. Right-click on the bobber as soon as possible after the bobber moves. The game portion involves timing it right so that your right-click will result in the fish being caught and not getting away.

If you are successful, you will receive a loot box and you'll be able to catch the fish. If you are not successful a message will inform you that the fish got away. The splash/hook may occur at different times along the timing bar. Sometimes the splash/hook appears right before the time is up, requiring you to click quickly before the fishing operation is canceled. As you fish more, you will likely become better at clicking at the right time.

Sometimes the bobber doesn't bob at all during the fishing period. Just cast again. If no fish are hooked this means you clicked on the fishing bobber at the wrong time. Try again.

Your fish got away, this means you are fishing in an area that is difficult for your skill level. If you receive this message a lot or all of the time, you need to go to a lower level fishing area. If you only receive this message part of the time, you're in the right area to gain skill-ups. You can reduce this from happening by getting a better fishing pole, applying powerful bait, getting fishing enchant or item, or by raising your skill (which these items do).