Project idea

As we develop our game, we have a set goal in mind of creating a unique fishing simulator that is capable of showing all the grandeur of Russian fishing. But not only that, we also want to show the true heart of Russian fishermen whose lives have always been closely bound to nature, its beauty and the diversity that thrives in our vast country. It is an open world with beautiful scenery that grants you the freedom from the mundane bustle and allows you to plunge into the atmosphere of genuine Russian fishing.

Introduction to the game

Russian Fishing 4 is a fishing simulator with RPG elements. There is no story line and the whole process is based on the concept of an open, free to roam and free to play game.

You start out as an aspiring angler who has never cast out a line up until now. As you progress through the game, you will earn experience and improve your skills, accessing new opportunities and abilities. You may choose your character’s specialization, developing particular abilities with special points, which are available in limited quantity. Distribution of the points will determine your character’s unique fishing personality.

The world in the game consists of several locations. Having achieved a particular level, you will be able to move freely between the locations, and use a variety of waterborne vehicles. Each location has a water body with a unique ecosystem, including its own fish species, plants, weather and infrastructure.

To gain success, you need to explore water bodies and their inhabitants. Each fish has its own preferences, behavior, daily activity and habitats. Moreover, the same fish species may behave differently in different water bodies. It all makes fishing truly exciting, urging the player to improve his or her knowledge to achieve the best result.

By selling fish you will earn in-game money, which you may then spend on fishing tackle, equipment, food, tools and many other items.

The game also provides social functions, enabling anglers to communicate, exchange items and take part in various ratings. Several tables of records and a player rating are available to the players. More ratings and other social functions will be added as the project moves forward.

How to start?

To start fishing you need only one single assembled rod. The player’s starter kit provides all the essential items: a simple telescopic rod, fishing line, a hook, a float and worms. All you need to do is to select the rod and add the rig components to it. In the case where you break the rod or lose the rig, and you can’t continue fishing, you will need to use ‘old equipment’.

The old equipment can be found at the house on the Cottage Pond by walking up to the house and pressing [E]. It includes a minimum list of items, which ensures the player can continue to fish at all times. By using the old equipment, the player starts to accumulate funds that will allow him to acquire different gear and eliminate the use of the old equipment.

It is recommended that you complete the tutorial when launching the game for the first time. It won’t take much time and will help you to become familiar with basic game functions.

At the initial stage, you need to explore the location and try to find a place where you can catch crucian carp or common roach. These fish species are easy to catch and undemanding towards your setup. Moreover, these fish live in big shoals, which guarantee continuous and active biting.

If you decide to fish common roach or crucian carp, promising places for you to check out will be overgrown water areas, where fish usually feed. Strive to cast the bait as close to the weeds as possible and deliver it near the very bottom. These fish usually feed close to the bottom and it is important to supply the bait at the correct depth. A worm or a ball of bread may be used as bait. You can make the bread balls yourself from a loaf of bread that you can purchase from the supermarket.

At the beginning, one should avoid encounters with large fish like grass carp or tench and, even more so, intentional attempts to catch them. Catching a large fish on your starter gear will most likely result in breaking your equipment. If you break your tackle accidently and you have no money to buy a new one, you will need to use the old equipment. You may also fall back on the old equipment if you have no bait left.

By selling fish at the fish market you earn your first funds. With these you can purchase new tackle and equipment. Strive to catch trophy fish; which when valued at the fish market, will be marked with a yellow flag. Profit is gained mainly by selling record specimens, whereas common small fish are sold for pennies. Don’t forget to sell the fish in time as, when stored too long, they may rot. Rotten fish is sold for a reduced price.

Having grasped these basic game features, you will learn to catch fish and earn money. Below is a more detailed user guide, where you may find answers for more complicated questions. If, to our great regret, you don’t find the answer to your question here, please use our forum or contact the technical support.

The main game window

The main game window includes the main status indicators.

Character status indicators

Figure 1: Character status displayed in four indicators.

Energy indicator

This indicator displays the player’s energy reserves. The energy is needed for fighting fish, crafting, running and other physical activities. The energy level and its regeneration speed depend on the player’s food level and comfort. Food may also affect the energy regeneration.

Food indicator

Make sure to eat at regular intervals to remain satiated. The food level affects the energy regeneration speed. Some food products may have additional bonuses: besides giving a full stomach, they may raise other characteristics as well.

Health Indicator

Displays the player’s state of health. With a deterioration of health, the maximum reserve and recovery of the energy rate are reduced.

Comfort indicator

Comfort is made up by the current weather conditions and the player’s equipment. It also depends on particular areas on the locations. The player may feel uncomfortable in the marshes or in the dark forest, but the comfort will be higher while standing next to a campfire. Comfort affects the energy regeneration speed.

Experience indicator

Figure 2: Experience and current level indicator.

This indicator displays the angler’s current level and the progress bar. It also shows the amount of experience points required for the next level.

Compass and navigation

Figure 3: Compass.

The compass displays the player’s position on the map, his or her coordinates and wind direction. The wind direction is indicated with a round spot that points to the side from which the wind blows.

Keepnet indicator

Figure 4: Keepnet indicator.

If the keepnet is full, the player can’t put another caught fish into it.

Time and weather indicator

Figure 5: Weather.

The life cycle and activity of fish depends on time and weather. For each fish, there is a particular advantageous period of daily activity. During this period the chance of catching a trophy specimen increases significantly. As a rule, fish are most active at sunset and before dawn. However there may be exceptions to this that you will grasp as you gain experience. Nocturnal fish species feed mainly at night. They prefer to stay in the deep water or in holes during the daytime. Therefore, for efficient and productive fishing the player should learn to plan his day correctly.

The weather affects fish activity as well. When it’s hot, cloudiness and rain give a positive influence on the catch and when it’s cold, vice versa. When the sun warms the water and accelerates all biological processes it will increase fish activity. It is also recommended to keep up with the temperature deviation from the daily norm, as this may cause changes in fish activity.

Current bait, lure and groundbait indicator

Figure 6: Current rig indicator.

This indicator block displays the bait or lure that is attached to the rod that is in the player’s hands at the moment. It also displays the groundbait loaded into the feeder (if a bottom rod is used) and/or a PVA stick.

Stress indicator

Figure 7. Stress indicator.

The stress indicator displays the stress level that your tackle currently bears. The indicator displays a relative stress; the critical level of which depends on the robustness of the weakest component of the rig. The following components take part in the calculation of the weakest unit: the rod, the reel, the fishing line, the leader and the hook. If the critical stress level is exceeded, there is a chance of breaking the weakest component or even several components at once if the load was exceeded significantly. Also, a higher stress increases tackle wear.

Backpack

Figure 8: Backpack window.

The backpack is used for storing tackle, equipment and utensils. To view the backpack contents, open it with the [I] button or with the control panel [ESC]. To the left side you may apply filters to prevent you from scrolling through a large number of items. Click an item [LMB] to view detailed information. The detailed information window contains item description, state, technical characteristics, as well as components of which it may consist. To see the description, unfold it (initially it is folded) by clicking the information icon, that is situated in the top right corner of the item image (the small circle with a lower case ‘I’ in it). Below is the explanation of how to assemble a rod.

Assembling a rod

Figure 9: Detailed information window.

To assemble a rod, you need to open the detailed information window and sequentially install all the required components. The selection of components depends on the rod type and the rig.

The rig selection button is situated in the same window, above the list of the components. The player may access only those rigs that are suited to the rod type and available in accordance with his or her skill. In its simplest version, a rod with a float rig with fixed line (which is the basic rig) consists of four components: fishing line, a float, a hook and bait. More complicated rigs include an increased number of components. Some components are marked as optional; they may be installed at player’s discretion. If you want to use the rod after it has been completely assembled, you need to take it into hands by clicking the corresponding button.

Fishing with float tackle

Float tackle is the most well-known and popular among Russian anglers. In the game a telescopic float rod is part of the gear with which the player starts his or her fishing life. Below are detailed descriptions of all float rod types and the process of fishing with float tackle.

Float rod types

Telescopic rod

A simple telescopic rod has no line guides and no reel. It is equipped with fishing line, a float and bait. It is easy and handy. A telescopic rod is designed for fishing moderate-size fish in still water or in weak currents. Fishing large fish with a telescopic rod may be dangerous as this rod is not equipped with a reel. If the fish resists strongly, the player has only limited maneuver possibilities.

The process of fishing with a telescopic rod contains adjusting the depth, casting, setting the hook and reeling in.

Bolognese rod

This is a telescopic rod supplemented with line guides and a reel seat. A Bolognese rod enables the player to cast the float at medium to long distances as well as to carry out retrieval with the current. A Bolognese rod may be regarded as the alternative to a simple telescopic rod. Its distinct advantage over the latter is the possibility to install a reel, which enables the angler to reel in a large fish more confidently. Among its disadvantages is that setting a hook is more complicated comparing to the telescopic rod, as it requires additional attention to line tension.

Match rod

A match rod is employed mainly for fishing large fish using a rig with a waggler. A waggler is a special heavy float, designed for fishing at a long distance. Having a very robust and powerful construction, a match rod is a perfect tool for fishing grass carp, black carp or bighead carp. Also, a match rod may be used with a baitfish rig and for fishing with a sbirolino rig.

Float Fishing Rig

Fixed float

A classical rig with a fixed float. The float depth is set manually. A disadvantage of the rig is limited float depth that cannot be set higher than the rod length.

Float	Hook	Bait	Leader
Use a classic or Bolognese float. Try to pick the float weights that suit the weight of the bait. If possible, choose the least noticeable and lightweight floats. If the float is too big, it can scare away cautious fish.	Use a classic hook. Try to pick a hook that suits the size of the fish. For smaller fish like the bleak or the dace, use No.22-18 For medium-sized fish like the crucian carp or the roach, use No.16-12 For larger fish like the bream or the tench, use No.12-8 Use hooks No.8 or bigger for the carp.	Use hookable baits.	You can also add a leader to the rig. Thin monoline or fluorocarbon leaders can make the rig less noticeable.

Bolognese

The main difference of the Bolognese rig from the rest is the use of a special float. A distinguishing feature of the Bolognese float is a thick antenna and long keel made of carbon or glass-reinforced plastic. The antenna is positively buoyant. This allows to slightly overweight the float, which increases the sensitivity of the rig. A long keel makes the float steadier in the currents.

Float	Hook	Bait	Leader
Use a Bolognese float. Try to pick the float weights that suit the weight of the bait. If possible, choose the least noticeable and lightweight floats. If the float is too big, it can scare away cautious fish.	see Fixed Float	see Fixed Float	see Fixed Float

Slider Float Rig

Sliding mount of the float means that it freely slides between the upper and the lower detents. The float shifts towards the lower detent during the casting, and the upper detent serves to limit a specific depth, to which the rig can dive. This kind of rig allows you to set the depth and cast at long-distances.

Float	Hook	Bait	Leader
Use a classic float. Try to pick the float weights that suit the weight of the bait. If possible, choose the least noticeable and lightweight floats. If the float is too big, it can scare away cautious fish.	see Fixed Float	see Fixed Float	see Fixed Float

Waggler Rig

The waggler rig is designed for float fishing at long distances. This rig is equipped with a special weighted float called waggler.

Float	Hook	Bait	Leader
Use a waggler. Try to pick the float weights that suit the weight of the bait. If possible, choose the least noticeable and lightweight floats. If the float is too big, it can scare away cautious fish.	see Fixed Float	see Fixed Float	see Fixed Float

Baitfish Rig

A rig used for fishing with a bait of small live fish. The rigging requires a big float.

Float	Hook	Bait	Leader
Use a special baitfish float.	Use a baitfish hook.	Add baitfish to the rig. Use fresh baitfish for a better result. In some cases, for example, when fishing for the catfish or burbot, the best catch can be reached with a slightly foul baitfish.	You can also add a leader to the rig. A leader made of steel or thick fluorocarbon can protect the rig from pike’s sharp teeth.

Carp Hair Rig

This is a special float rig used for fishing with a bottom rigging of sinking carp baits. The rig is equipped with a set of sinkers to dive a leader to the bottom.

Float	Hook	Bait	Leader
Use a classic float or a waggler. Try to pick the float weights that suit the weight of the bait. If possible, choose the least noticeable and lightweight floats. If the float is too big, it can scare away cautious fish.	Use a carp hook for this kind of rig. When fishing for smaller carps, use hooks No.10 or No.8. To fish for bigger carps, use hooks No.4, No.2 or even No.1.	Use the carp bait suitable for the rigging. Car bait is not hooked but is mounted next to the hook on a special hair.	Use a soft braided line leader so that the rig behaves naturally and wouldn’t create resistance during the bite. With stiff monoline or fluorocarbon leaders, you can get the best of striking, however, their extra stiffness may alert the fish. A short leader provides for good striking but can scare off a cautious fish. When attached to a long leader, the bait behaves more naturally, which is very important when catching cautious fish. Therewith, the longer the leader is, the worse auto-striking ability of the rig gets.

Carp Hair Pop-Up

This is a special float rig used for fishing with a bottom rigging of floating (pop-up) carp baits. The rig is equipped with a set of sinkers to dive a leader to the bottom.

Float	Hook	Bait	Leader
see Carp Hair Rig	see Carp Hair Rig	see Carp Hair Rig	see Carp Hair Rig

Sbirolino With a Soft Lure

Sbirolino is a new and innovative fishing style. It is called after one of the rig components, a heavy float called “sbirolino” or otherwise known as a bombarda. It is used to increase the weight of the rig and thus makes it possible to cast light silicone lures at a long distance.

Float	Hook	Bait	Leader
Use a sbirolino float. Choose a sbirolino with a buoyancy coefficient required to sink the bait or make it float at the surface.	Use a jig-head.	Add a silicone lures to the rig.	You can also add a leader to the rig. A leader made of steel or thick fluorocarbon can protect the rig from pike’s sharp teeth.

Sbirolino With a Lure

With a Sbirolino you can use a match or Bolognese rod as a light spinning rod. A heavy sbirolino float makes a part of the rig and allows for long-distance casting of such lures as light spoons and wobblers.

Float	Hook	Bait	Leader
see Sbirolino With a Soft Lure	-	Add a small-size spinning lure to the rig.	see Sbirolino With a Soft Lure

Fishing

The process of fishing with float tackle includes the following steps that are applicable to any float rod or rig type, with the exception of the sbirolino that will be discussed separately.

Step 1: Float depth adjustment

The float depth defines how deep the hook with bait dives. The depth, at which the bait is supplied to fish, is an important value, as each fish has its own preferences regarding feeding depth and style. Some fish feed on the bottom, some do it on the surface, and there are also ones that prefer feeding in the middle of the water column. These peculiarities must be considered to achieve the maximum result in fishing. Most common fish species like crucian carp, common roach or bream, usually feed in the bottom water. Thus the first thing to learn is the right way of delivering the bait to the bottom. Adjust the float depth so, that the bait approaches the bottom or even lays on it. It is very important that at the same time the float remains in upright position, otherwise the bite may remain unnoticed.

For rigs with a sliding float or with a waggler, the float depth will define how deep the bait may descend due to the float’s free movement along the fishing line. That means that the bait is always delivered to the bottom, as long as the depth of the water body in the fishing area doesn’t exceed the float depth.

Step 2: Casting

Figure 10: Casting force indicator.

Before casting, move to an opportune spot and choose the direction for the cast by pointing at it with your mouse. When you are ready, press the casting button [LMB] and hold it to build up the casting force. Release the button to execute the cast with the adjusted force. Hold [SHIFT] during casting if you need the maximum casting distance. Consider wind speed and direction. Strong wind may exert a substantial influence on your rig’s flight characteristics, slowing it down, changing its flight path or even accelerating it, if you cast with the wind.

The casting distance of a telescopic rod is limited by the rod itself and the line length, which approximately equals the rod length. The casting distance for a telescopic rod can be calculated with the following formula: rod length x 2.

For Bolognese and match rods, the casing distance is limited by rig’s aerodynamic properties and characteristics of the rod and the reel. To achieve the maximum casting distance, take into consideration the rod’s test and the weight of the rig.

Step 3: Expecting the bite

When you are waiting for the fish to bite, the most important thing is to have patience, stay still and watch the float carefully. Use zooming [Z] for more convenient watching. You need to use binoculars to watch the float at a far distance. It is important to keep motionless as any movement or extraneous noises have negative impact on the bite of sensitive fish. If there is no bite for a long time, try casting again, as it may happen that a clever fish has already stolen the bait. When at last there is a bite, instead of hurrying up setting the hook, analyze the movements performed by the float. We’ll discuss it in the next step.

When you fish in the river, the rig may be affected by the currents. The handiest tool for fishing in the currents is a Bolognese rod, which enables letting the line out and fishing in the so-called cast and retrieve technique. To do that, you need to open the bail on the reel [ENTER] and let the float drift with the current.

Step 4: Setting the hook

The crucial part of this step is choosing the right moment to set the hook. Carefully atch the way the float moves. The bite comprises two phases: at first the fish will nibble on the bait, in the second it starts devouring the bait greedily.

The first phase induces the float to twitch chaotically. The duration of this twitching depends on how wary and careful the fish is. For example, roach may nibble on the bait long enough to drive even a veteran angler out of his mind. Perch, on the other hand, grab the bait abruptly and confidently, which requires a good reaction speed from the angler. You shouldn’t try to set the hook during the first phase. It is important to wait for the second phase of the bite.

At some point the fish stops nibbling and tries to pick up the bait in order to move off to a secluded place to chew it there. From this moment begins the second phase of the bite, which is displayed by the float distinctly: it may start sinking, go aside or even tilt where it ends up flat on the surface. That is the correct moment to set the hook. The duration of this phase is unpredictable, as the fish may smell trouble and let go of the bait at any instant. The sooner the player recognizes the phase of swallowing the bait and strikes, the higher the probability of success is.

Not every situation requires striking at once. Some fish species bite unconfidently and nervously and accompany the bite with misleading movements. The fish may take the bait into its mouth for a moment and then let it go again, deceiving the angler. If the player happens to encounter such a cunning fish, it is recommended to begin with learning its biting manner and calculating the best moment for setting the hook based on the fish’ behavior.

If a telescopic rod is used, the strike is performed automatically as you pull the rod up [LMB]. Striking with a Bolognese or a match rod is done manually [RMB]. At the moment you strike, it is very important (especially for a Bolognese or a match rod) not to have the line too loose, otherwise the strike, absorbed by the slack line, will not bring the desired result.

Having set the hook successfully you begin the phase of reeling in, that will be discussed in a separate paragraph.

Peculiarities of fishing with a sbirolino

Figure 11: Using a sbirolino in float rigs.

Sbirolino rigs, displayed in the game, only technically belong to the float rig type. They include artificial fishing baits and a special float called sbirolino, acting as ballast. This float allows casting a lightweight lure over a very long distance as well as bringing the lure to its desired depth. In our case a sbirolino is a hybrid float rig, enabling a float fishing enthusiast to catch a big predatory fish without the need of expensive spinning tackle.

The process of fishing with a sbirolino is different from the process of fishing with classical float rigs. It requires a purely spin fishing approach in means of retrieving the bait and provoking predatory fish to an attack. You may familiarize yourself with the principles of spin fishing in the next section.

Spin fishing

Spinning tackle is used mainly for fishing predatory fish species. Spin fishing is very dynamic, exciting and involves big expenses, as an average set of spin fishing equipment consists of hundreds of different baits and accessories. Yet the endless flow of joy that accompanies fighting a large and strong predator, repays all the expenses. Below are the descriptions of all types of spinning rods and the general process of fishing with spinning tackle.

Types of spinning rods

Regular spinning rod

This is classical spinning tackle that would satisfy most of beginners at spin fishing. A regular spinning rod may be used for fishing all sorts of predatory fish with any rig, with the exception of jerkbaits.

Casting rod

There are practically no differences to be found at first glance between a casting rod and a classical fishing rod, except for the special configuration of line guides, oriented towards the usage of a baitcasting reel. A casting rod may only be equipped with a baitcasting or a “multi-handle” reel. This reel type is based on a classic design that is reminiscent of a winch. These reels are usually more powerful and reliable than ordinary spinning reels. Moreover they possess excellent casting characteristics. A casting rod is perfectly suited for a professional, who needs long-distance casting and powerful tackle for fighting large predatory fish.

Jerkbait rod

A jerkbait rod is a weighted version of a casting rod, designed for fishing with jerkbaits. A jerkbait is a massive lure, intended for fishing large predatory fish like pike or trophy perch. Its weight and the specific way of fishing with it, require very powerful tackle. In other aspects, there is no difference between a jerkbait rod and an regular casting rod.

Spin Fishing Rig

Artificial Lures

Classic spinning rig

Leader	Weight	Hook	Lure
You can also add a leader to the rig. Use a leader made of steel or thick fluorocarbon to protect the rig from pike’s sharp teeth. Use small-diameter leaders made of thin monoline or fluorocarbon to make the rig less noticeable for cautious fish.	-	-	Use classic spinning lures like spoons, spinners, regular and topwater wobblers, etc.

Jerkbait Rig

Jerkbaits are a type of large-sized lures used to fish for large predatory fish. The lures are fixed in a way similar to the classic spinning rig.

Leader	Weight	Hook	Lure
see Artificial Lures	-	-	Use a jerkbait as a lure

Jigging Rig

Regular jigging rig consists of a jig-head and a silicone or foam-rubber lure.

Leader	Weight	Hook	Lure
see Artificial Lures	-	Use a jig-head. Choose the weight of a jig-head that suits your fishing style. If you are using a classic jig step, select the weight of such a weight that the rig is easily pulled from the bottom when the reel is turning, and the moment the weight reaches the bottom can be easily detected by the rod tip. Choose the jig-head hook of a size that suits the size of the lure. The smaller the lure is, the smaller hook you need.	Use soft silicone or foam-rubber lures.

Three-Way Rig

To make this rig you’ll need a treble swivel, a drop-shaped or another type of weight, an offset hook and a soft lure. It’s somewhat similar to a drop-shot rig, but in this rig, the lure is placed on a long loose leader.

Leader	Weight	Hook	Lure
see Artificial Lures	Use jig weights. Choose the weight that suits your fishing style. If you are using a classic jig step, select the weight of such a weight that the rig is easily pulled from the bottom when the reel is turning, and the moment the weight reaches the bottom can be easily detected by the rod tip.	Use an offset hook. Choose the hook of a size that suits the size of the lure. The smaller the lure is, the smaller hook you need.	see Jigging Rig

Drop-Shot Rig

To make this rig you’ll need a drop-shaped or another type of weight, an offset hook, a treble swivel, and a soft lure. The drop-shot is distinguished by its ability to pass through snaggy areas.

Leader	Weight	Hook	Lure
see Artificial Lures	see Three-Way Rig	see Three-Way Rig	see Jigging Rig

Texas Rig

A complex rig that consists of a bullet-shaped sinker, a glass bead acting as a buffer between the hook and the sinker, and a soft lure (most commonly a twister lure or a worm) baited on an offset hook.

Leader	Weight	Hook	Lure
see Artificial Lures	Use a bullet-shaped jig weight. Choose the weight that suits your fishing style. If you are using a classic jig step, select the weight of such a weight that the rig is easily pulled from the bottom when the reel is turning, and the moment the weight reaches the bottom can be easily detected by the rod tip.	see Three-Way Rig	see Jigging Rig

Carolina Rig

It is somewhat similar to the Texas rig, but the sinker is located further from the lure, which lets it “glide” above the bottom. To make a Carolina Rig you need a drop-shaped sinker, a glass bead, an offset hook and a soft lure.

Leader	Weight	Hook	Lure
see Artificial Lures	see Texas Rig	see Three-Way Rig	see Jigging Rig

Wacky Rig

A wacky rig consists of a silicone worm baited over a weighted offset hook. Thanks to small weight of the rig, the worm behaves very naturally when put into the water and fish just cannot resist its allurement. When fishing with this rig, you need a light tackle.

Leader	Weight	Hook	Lure
see Artificial Lures	-	Use a special weighted hook. Select the hook of such a weight that the tackle doesn’t sink to fast. This way the lure will move in a more natural way. Choose the hook of a size that suits the size of the wacky worm. The smaller the worm is, the smaller hook you need.	Use a special wacky worm.

Sbirolino With a Soft Lure

Sbirolino is a new and innovative fishing style. It is called after one of the rig components, a heavy float called “sbirolino” or otherwise known as a bombarda. It is used to increase the weight of the rig and thus makes it possible to cast light silicone lures at a long distance.

Leader	Weight	Hook	Lure
see Artificial Lures	-	Use an offset hook. Choose the hook of a size that suits the size of the lure. The smaller the lure is, the smaller hook you need.	Use soft silicone or foam-rubber lures.

Use a sbirolino float. Choose a sbirolino with a buoyancy coefficient required to sink the bait or make it float at the surface.

Sbirolino With a Lure

A heavy sbirolino float makes a part of the rig and allows for long-distance casting of such lures as light spoons and wobblers.

Leader	Weight	Hook	Lure
see Artificial Lures	-	see Sbirolino With a Soft Lure	Use small-sized spinning lures

Use a sbirolino float. Choose a sbirolino with a buoyancy coefficient required to sink the bait or make it float at the surface.

Fishing

Fishing with a spinning rod, unlike peaceful float or bottom fishing requires dynamic actions from the player. It involves constantly moving around the water body and searching for the areas where predatory fish feed. Regardless of the spinning rod type, the fishing process consists of three steps: searching for a promising fishing spot, casting the bait, and its retrieval. For a better result, don’t stay too long at the same place. Explore the water body and check out the most promising spots where predatory fish might be found. If there has been a bite somewhere, study the place more carefully. The more spots you explore, the more knowledge you gain about the water body and the way predatory fish behave in it.

Step 1: Choosing the place

Figure 12: A perfect place for pike fishing.

There is no universal instruction for choosing the place to fish underwater predators. As you gain experience, you will learn to find such places easily. It all depends on fish species and the specifics of each particular water body. Still, at first we recommend you consider the boundaries of weed beds, rocks, reeds and fallen trees sunk in the water. Such places catch one’s eye immediately and the player doesn’t need special training to be able to detect them. Searching for predatory fish that live close to the bottom, like zander, catfish or perch requires further knowledge of the water body. For those you’ll need to scour underwater slopes, holes and other bottom anomalies. When fishing amidst weeds and other objects in the water, try to cast the bait as close to them as possible.

Step 2: Casting the bait

Before casting the bait choose the direction for its flight path with the mouse cursor. Press LMB and hold it to adjust the required casting force. Then release the button and the casting will be executed. Hold [SHIFT], if you need to set casting force to maximum without waiting for the indicator to reach it. Consider wind speed and direction. Strong wind may exert a substantial influence on your rig’s flight characteristics, especially if it is a light one, like a wobbler or a popper.

Step 3: Retrieving the bait

Rotate the reel handle to set the bait in motion. The bait should move, for that is the only way it can provoke predatory fish to bite. Make sure to vary the rotation speed of the reel [R + scroll wheel]. Varying the rotation speed of the reel may help you to bring the bait closer to the bottom or lift it to the surface, which is especially important when you fish with a classical spoon. Varying the rotation speed of the reel when using a jig, will help you in finding out the optimal speed for the jig retrieval.

Switch between smooth retrieval and various other retrievals may encourage predatory fish to bite. Try making a pause or speeding the bait up by holding [SHIFT]. When you fish with a wobbler, a topwater lure or a jerkbait, special movements become available, which you can use by clicking the right mouse button [RMB].

Predators attack dashingly. As a rule, the attack can be recognized by a strong hit and bending of the rod. You don’t need to strike, as the fish gets hooked by itself. Fighting the fish and reeling it in will be discussed later in the relevant section.

Fishing with bottom tackle

Bottom fishing involves using special bottom rig and feeder rigs. A simple feeder rig includes line, a feeder acting as a weight, a hook and bait. The feeder is to be stuffed with groundbait, which attracts fish. As a rule, bottom fishing is a slow process, in which a special role is given to preparations that involve choosing the right place for fishing and mixing the appropriate groundbait. At the initial stage, the player needs a simple rig with an ordinary weight. Such a rig doesn’t require using a feeder, but the player, at his or her own discretion, may attract fish additionally with balls made out of groundbait. Special feeder rods are used for fishing with bottom rigs. There are several types of them. Below we discuss all bottom rod types and the process of fishing.

Bottom rod types

Feeder rod

A universal rod for fishing with bottom rigs, this rod is a basic one and will suffice in most occasions.

Picker rod

A picker rod is a lightened version of a feeder rod. It is used for fishing with light bottom rigs in limited space, usually in small water bodies with standing water. A picker rod is a handy tool for fishing at a short distance.

Carp rod

A carp rod is a heavy feeder rod, intended for fishing large carp and other strong fish species. It requires reliable and firm tackle for reeling in. A carp rod is highly robust and capable of extremely long casts.

Bottom Fishing Rig

Basic Bottom Rig

The rig where a weight is attached to the main line with a knot or a treble swivel. It can be used in the still water as well as in currents. It is featured by low sensitivity and fast auto-striker.

Sinker or feeder	This kind of rig can be used with a weight or a swivel feeder. The shape, color, and weight of the weight depend on the specifics of the fishing area.
Leader	The use of a leader is not required for this rig type. You can use thin leaders to make the rig less noticeable.
Hook	Use a classic hook for this kind of rig.
PVA/rocket feeder	You can add a PVA stick or stinger to the rig. Localized feeding with groundbait delivered in a fast-dissolving PVA stick or with a stinger is highly efficient.
Bait	Add hookable baits to the rig.
Leadcore	-
Other	-

Paternoster Rig

This rig where the feeder is attached to the main line with a leader. This is a universal rig with medium sensitivity and auto-setting of the hook capacity.

Sinker or feeder	This kind of rig can be used with a weight or a swivel feeder. The shape, color, and weight of the weight depend on the specifics of the fishing area.
Leader	The use of a leader is not obligatory for this rig type. You can use thin leaders to make the rig less noticeable.
Hook	Use a classic hook for this kind of rig.
PVA/rocket feeder	see Basic Bottom Rig
Bait	see Basic Bottom Rig
Leadcore	-
Other	-

Baitfish Rig

Is used for fishing in the bottom waters with a live fish as bait. The rig includes a special baitfish hook that provides for rigid striking and keeps the baitfish moving for a long period of time.

Sinker or feeder	This kind of rig is used with a swivel sinker. It is better to choose a heavier weight to make sure that the baitfish stays on the fishing spot.
Leader	The use of a leader is not obligatory for this rig type. When fishing for sharp-toothed predators, such as the pike, it’s recommended to use a leader made of steel or thick fluorocarbon.
Hook	Use a baitfish hook for this kind of rig.
PVA/rocket feeder	-
Bait	Add baitfish to the rig. Use fresh baitfish for a better result. In some cases, for example, when fishing for the catfish or the burbot, the best catch can be reached with a slightly foul baitfish.
Leadcore	-
Other	-

In-Line Rig

In this rig type, the feeder slides along the main line between two detents (stoppers). This rig provides for the best results in water bodies without currents. It is featured with high sensitivity, as the lint tension is passed directly to the rod tip. The main disadvantage of the in-line rig is rather moderate auto-setting of the hook capacity.

Sinker or feeder	This kind of rig can be used with swivel or in-line weights and feeders. In-line weights provide for excellent auto-setting of the hook but cannot boast the best of the aerodynamic qualities. The shape, color, and weight of the weight depend on the specifics of the fishing area.
Leader	The use of a leader is not obligatory for this rig type. You can use thin leaders to make the rig less noticeable.
Hook	Use a classic hook for this kind of rig.
PVA/rocket feeder	see Basic Bottom Rig
Bait	see Basic Bottom Rig
Leadcore	-
Other	-

Loop Rig

This is a hybrid of a paternoster and in-line rigs. The weight freely slides along a loop tides on the main line. The loop rig is featured with high sensitivity but doesn’t provide for the best of auto-setting of the hook. Can be used in the water bodies of any type

Sinker or feeder	This kind of rig can be used with a weight or a swivel feeder. The shape, color, and weight of the weight depend on the specifics of the fishing area.
Leader	The use of a leader is not obligatory for this rig type. You can use thin leaders to make the rig less noticeable.
Hook	Use a classic hook for this kind of rig.
PVA/rocket feeder	see Basic Bottom Rig
Bait	see Basic Bottom Rig
Leadcore	-
Other	-

Method Rig

This rig comes with a special open type feeder that can freely slide along the main line. The sliding feeder provides for excellent sensitivity. Can be used to fish for carps in calm waters.

Sinker or feeder	The rig is equipped with open type Method feeders.
Leader	Use short, about 10-cm long, leaders made of soft leader materials such as braided cord or monoline.
Hook	Use a carp hook for this kind of rig. When fishing for smaller carps, use hooks No.10 or No.8. To fish for bigger carps, use hooks No.4, No.2 or even No.1.
PVA/rocket feeder	-
Bait	see Basic Bottom Rig
Leadcore	Set up a leadcore to make the lead less noticeable and less likely to injure the fish. To increase the efficiency, try to choose such a lead core color that matches the color of the bottom.
Other	-

Classic Hair Rig

The rig is used for fishing with sinking boilies or pellets. The best results are reached when fishing on the hard soil bottoms (sand, clay), but the rig can also be used on the slightly silted or overgrown bottom

Sinker or feeder	The rig can be equipped with any type of weights. In-line weights can be used to improve auto-setting of the hook, while swivel weights provide for the best aerodynamics.
Leader	Use a soft braided line leader so that the rig behaves naturally and wouldn’t create resistance during the bite. Stiff monoline or fluorocarbon leaders allow for the best of striking, but the extra stiffness may alert the fish. A short leader provides for good striking but can scare off a cautious fish. Moreover, a short leader may drag the bait under the silt and algae together with the weight. When attached to a long leader, the bait behaves more naturally, which is very important when catching cautious fish. Moreover, a long leader may prevent the rig from sinking in the silt or grassed soil. Therefore, the longer the leader is, the less auto-setting of the hook the rig has.
Hook	see Method Rig
PVA/rocket feeder	see Basic Bottom Rig
Bait	Use the carp bait suitable for the rigging. Car bait is not hooked but is mounted next to the hook on a special hair. link to recommendations on how to choose right carp baits
Leadcore	see Method Rig
Other	-

Snowman Rig

The rig is used to fish with a combination of floating and sinking baits. It works equally well on both soft and hard soils.

Sinker or feeder	The rig can be equipped with any type of weights. In-line weights can be used to improve auto-setting of the hook, and swivel weights provide for the best of aerodynamics.
Leader	see Classic Hair Rig
Hook	see Method Rig
PVA/rocket feeder	see Basic Bottom Rig
Bait	see Classic Hair Rig
Leadcore	see Method Rig
Other	-

Maggot Rig

This rig is used to fish with a batch of fly larvae (“maggots”). The rig includes floating artificial corn. It works equally well on both soft and hard soils.

Sinker or feeder	The rig can be equipped with any type of weights. In-line weights can be used to improve auto-setting of the hook, and swivel weights provide for the best of aerodynamics.
Leader	see Classic Hair Rig
Hook	see Method Rig
PVA/rocket feeder	see Basic Bottom Rig
Bait	see Classic Hair Rig
Leadcore	see Method Rig
Other	-

Classic Pop-Up Rig

Used to fish with floating (“pop-up”) boilies and corn that can be used separately or in different combinations. The rig works well on any type of soil, including silty and weeded areas.

Sinker or feeder	The rig can be equipped with any type of weights. In-line weights can be used to improve auto-setting of the hook, and swivel weights provide for the best of aerodynamics.
Leader	see Classic Hair Rig
Hook	see Method Rig
PVA/rocket feeder	see Basic Bottom Rig
Bait	see Classic Hair Rig
Leadcore	see Method Rig
Other	-

Pop-Up Method Rig

This rig comes with a special open type feeder that can freely slide along the main line. What is different from the classic method rig is that the bait consists of pop-up boilies and corn that can be used separately or in different combinations. Can be used to fish for carps in calm waters.

Sinker or feeder	see Method Rig
Leader	see Method Rig
Hook	see Method Rig
PVA/rocket feeder	-
Bait	see Classic Hair Rig
Leadcore	see Method Rig
Other	-

Chod Rig

A variation of the pop-up rig that demonstrates the best results in the silty or grassed areas of the bottom.

Sinker or feeder	This kind of rig cannot be used with any other weights but swivel weights.
Leader	Use the chod rig with a stiff leader made of rigid materials like monoline or fluorocarbon. A short leader provides for good striking but can scare off a cautious fish. Moreover, a short leader may drag the bait under the silt and algae together with the weight. When attached to a long leader, the bait behaves more naturally, which is very important when catching cautious fish. Moreover, a long leader may prevent the rig from sinking in the silt or grassed soil. Therefore, the longer the leader is, the less auto-setting of the hook the rig has.
Hook	The best choice for this kind of rig is a chod hook that you can recognize by an out-turned eye. This hook will provide for the best of striking. When fishing for smaller carps, use hooks No.10 or No.8. To fish for bigger carps, use hooks No.4, No.2 or even No.1.
PVA/rocket feeder	see Basic Bottom Rig
Bait	see Classic Hair Rig
Leadcore	see Method Rig
Other	-

Hinged Stiff Rig

This is another type of pop-up rig, featured with a special two-part compound leader. The rig is used on a hard, slightly silted or overgrown bottom

Sinker or feeder	The rig can be equipped with any type of weights. In-line weights can be used to improve auto-setting of the hook, and swivel weights provide for the best of aerodynamics.
Leader	Use the hinged stiff rig with a compound leader made of rigid monoline or fluorocarbon. A short leader provides for good striking but can scare off a cautious fish. Moreover, a short leader may drag the bait under the silt and algae together with the weight. When attached to a long leader, the bait behaves more naturally, which is very important when catching cautious fish. Moreover, a long leader may prevent the rig from sinking in the silt or grassed soil. Therefore, the longer the leader is, the less auto-setting of the hook the rig has.
Hook	see Chod
PVA/rocket feeder	see Basic Bottom Rig
Bait	see Classic Hair Rig
Leadcore	see Method Rig
Other	-

Rocket Feeder

This is a rocket-shaped feeder filled with groundbait. It’s used to deliver groundbait and attract fish at specific distant spots.

Sinker or feeder	-
Leader	-
Hook	-
PVA/rocket feeder	Set up the rig with an SPOD or SPOMB rocket feeder. SPOD is a classic open-type rocket feeder. It creates a significant groundbait spot, which makes it efficient for small-fractioned groundbaits. SPOMB is a closed-type rocket feeder, that opens up exactly at the moment it hits the water. This way the groundbait is delivered to the spot with a minimal scatter. It’s efficient when using large-fractioned groundbaits, such as boilies or pellets.
Bait	-
Leadcore	-
Other	-

Marker Rig

A marker float is fixed at the end of the line preceded by a freely sliding sinker. This rig is used to measure the depth and define the bottom soil type.

Sinker or feeder	This rig is used with special marker weights which provide for high sensitivity required scope the bottom.
Leader	-
Hook	-
PVA/rocket feeder	-
Bait	-
Leadcore	-
Other	Use a special marker float.

How to Choose the Right Weights for a Bottom Rig

- Mounting type

Swivel weight provides for better aerodynamic qualities of the rig and, therefore, for casting at bigger distances. A disadvantage of swivel mounting is rather moderate auto-setting of the hook that strongly depends on the shape of the weight. The best striking can be reached with compact weights such as ball-shaped and pear-shaped weights.

In-line weight provides for the best of striking but decreases the casting distance of the rig.

- Shape and weight of the weight

The shape and weight of the weight affect the casting distance and the quality of auto-setting of the hook.

For long-distance casting, use heavy weights of a streamlined shape. The longest-range shapes include trilobe, horizon, rocket, and zip.

To make the rig stable in currents, use heavy flat weights. The best weight for a swift current is a frame weight.

Stability on a soft soil also plays a very important role, especially when fishing in silty parts of the water body. When fishing in such places, use small flattened weights, such as flat or a square pear.

For the best auto-setting of the hook capacity, use compact shapes like a ball or a pear. If oblong weights are used, only part of the weight surface reacts at the bite and the load is increasing incrementally, which has a negative impact on the auto-setting of the hook qualities.

- Color of the weight

Correctly chosen color of the weight will make the rig less noticeable, which is particularly important when fishing for a trophy carp.

Use dark-colored weights for fishing in the silty areas.

Orange weights are good for fishing on a clay bottom.

Green weights make an ideal match for fishing in the weed.

Light-shaded weights show the best results on sand and pebble soils.

To learn what type of the bottom there is in the fishing ground, you can use a marker rod.

How to Choose the Right Leader for a Bottom Rig

- Material and hardness of the leader

Use a soft braided line leader so that the rig behaves naturally and wouldn’t create resistance during the bite.

Stiff monoline or fluorocarbon leaders allow for the best of striking, but the extra stiffness may alert the fish.

The exceptions are chod and hinged stiff rigs that should always be used with stiff leaders.

- Length of the leader

A short leader provides for good striking but can scare off a cautious fish. Moreover, a short leader may drag the bait under the silt and algae together with the weight.

When attached to a long leader, the bait behaves more naturally, which is very important when catching cautious fish. Moreover, a long leader may prevent the rig from sinking in the silt or grassed soil. Therefore, the longer the leader is, the less auto-setting of the hook the rig has.

How to Choose the Right Hook for a Hair Rig

- Type and shape of the hook

Hair rigs are used with special carp hooks featured with sharpness and significant robustness.

Carp hooks come in a variety of shapes that can be divided into two main groups: - Chod hooks and the rest of the hooks.

You can recognize a chod hook by an out-turned eye. These hooks are designed especially for chod and hinged stiff rigs. Only when used with the chod hooks, these rigs can deliver the best of their striking capacity.

The rest of the hooks can be successfully used in any kind of hair rigs with no limitations.

- Size of the hook

When fishing for the smaller carp, large roach or tench, use hooks No.10 or No.8.

For medium-sized carps, use hooks No.8-4

To fish for bigger carps, use hooks No.4, No.2 or even No.1.

Leadcore is a braided material with a core made of lead. It is used to prevent twisting and press the main line against the bottom, thus making the rig less noticeable. To choose the leadcore color use the same principles as for the weight color.

Fishing

Fishing with a bottom rod begins with the correct preparations. Decide what fish you are going to catch. It is the fish that defines the fishing spot, the tackle and the groundbait. Below are recommendations on how to prepare for fishing and how to fish using the initial rig with an ordinary weight. If you use bottom tackle for the first time or you don’t have sufficient experience, these recommendations will help you to develop basic skills in this field.

Step 1: Choosing the place and using groundbait

It is very difficult to choose a good place for fishing with a bottom rod without sufficient experience. If you have already tried fishing with a float rod, try using the spots where you were successful. If you don’t know any, choose a place to your liking. Note that it is very important there is enough space at the fishing spot to place down the rods, positioned on a special rod pod.

Attracting fish with groundbait is not necessary in feeder fishing, yet some properly made groundbait may increase bites and draw larger fish to the fishing area. We don’t recommend you deal with groundbait in your starting period. You have yet to familiarize yourself with the game, and groundbait requires additional expenses that may exhaust your funds.

If you decide to test groundbait out, try and use the simplest and the cheapest components to make it. Take ground crackers as basis and millet porridge or bloodworms as additives. You may combine other additives, as it will increase the groundbait’s efficiency. Start by casting 10 balls of groundbait into water. Repeat this action in about 7 to 9 in-game hours with a decreased number of balls. Try and cast the balls as close to the fishing area as possible.

Step 2: Casting

Before casting the rig choose the direction for its flight path with the mouse cursor. Press LMB and hold it to adjust the required casting force. Then release the button and execute casting. Hold [SHIFT] if you need to set casting force to a maximum without waiting for the indicator to reach it. Consider wind speed and direction. Strong wind may exert a substantial influence on your rig’s flight characteristics. If you need a long-distance cast, pay attention to the shape of the weight and the feeder. Choose a sinker having flowing aerodynamic lines, it will enable you to cast long distance. Consider the sinker’s weight as well. The heavier the sinker, the better it flies and the less it is affected by the currents.

Step 3: Controlling rods

Figure 13: Morning fishing with multiple feeder rods.

After casting, position the rod on the special pod using [0] key. It may require some space and level ground. Once the rod is in its pod, move the mouse cursor over the rod and tighten the fishing line by rotating the reel handle [Y]. The line must be tight to let you notice the bite. When you fish with feeders, it makes sense to use multiple rods as it makes fishing more productive. Controlling a number of rods at the same time requires some dexterity. For fishing with two or three rods, cast them sequentially and then position them side by side on the rod pod. To control a rod positioned on the pod, move the mouse over it and select the required action.

Step 4: Expecting the bite and setting the hook

Station yourself nearby and carefully watch the rod tip with a bell attached to it. It is very important to keep quiet and to move as little as possible. The rid tip jiggles and the bell rings when the fish bites. It may be difficult to notice a bite of a careful moderate-sized fish that is sometimes indicated solely by a trembling of the bells or a slack line. A large fish picks the bait with decision, which you will know by strong bending of the rod and a shrill ringing of the bell.

When the fish finally bites, take the rod into your hands by moving the mouse over it. The hook is set automatically, so all you need is to grasp the rod and land the fish. Reeling in will be discussed later.

Reeling in and landing

Fighting the fish or reeling in is the crucial moment in fishing. At this moment, the angler feels the weight of the fish on the hook and starts anticipating the deserved reward for his or her patience. However, any misstep may cause the fish to break off and deprive the angler of the joy of a caught trophy. For a devoted angler, losing a trophy is a real shock. To minimize losses during reeling in, you need to follow particular rules and, if possible, keep calm.

Strive to pull the fish to the bank quickly and grasp it. See about buying a landing net at the initial stage of the game. A landing net is the best investment for your first money, as it substantially facilitates landing a fish. In some cases landing a fish without a landing net is impossible. A landing net is used at the final stage of reeling in. Having pulled the fish close to the bank or to the boat, lift the rod by holding [RMB] and press space bar [SPACE] to take the landing net out and try to capture the fish with it. It is important to consider that when using tackle with a reel, the player can’t rotate the reel handle and hold the landing net at the same time, as both the hands are busy. To restore control over the reel, put away the landing net by pressing the space bar [SPACE] again.

Figure 14: Using a landing net.

The process of reeling in and landing is relatively easy when you use a simple telescopic rod: you need to pull the fish in with a pendulum-like motion [hold LMB].

The reeling in using a rod equipped with a reel, often begins at a long distance. You need to pull the fish closer to the bank using the reel first. If the reel’s power does not suffice to pull the fish to the bank, try the technique of “pumping and reeling”. Let go of [LMB] and hold the right mouse button [hold RMB] until the stress decreases. Then let go of the [RMB] and hold the [LMB] again. Repeat this manner until the fish is close to the bank or the boat.

It is very important to keep an eye on the stress indicator that displays the stress relating to the weakest tackle component. Don’t let the indicator enter the critical zone (indicated by the bar first turning orange and then red), as it may cause the tackle to break. If the rod is equipped with a reel, loosen the friction [scroll wheel] in case of high load. It will help to cushion shocks and lessen the stress on the tackle. Lessening the stress on telescopic tackle is more difficult. As a last resort to save the rod, try moving along the shore with the fish if it is possible.

In case of a large fish, reeling in may take time as first you will need to pull the fish to and fro to exhaust it a little. Don’t try forceful reeling in under high stress, it may cause unjustified tackle damages.

If you don’t have a landing net at hand and there is a large fish on the hook that can’t be lifted with your rod, try dragging it onto the bank.

Fishing tips

Casting distance and accuracy

Casting accuracy depends on:

• Player’s skill
• Ability of fishing with the particular rod type
• Ability of using the particular reel type
• Rod length
• Degree of drunkenness
• Wind effect

In the first place, focus on skill and ability of fishing with the particular rod and reel. Brushing up those skills will help you increase casting accuracy. Consider wind direction and force as well. Casting accuracy also decreases with the increase of casting distance.

Casting distance depends on:

• Correspondence between the reel weight and the rod test
• Reel characteristics
• Rod characteristics: its length, action and flexibility
• Weight and aerodynamic characteristics of the rig
• Fishing line type
• Player’s skill
• Ability of fishing with the particular rod type
• Ability of using the particular reel type
• State of the rod, line guides and reel components
• Angler’s energy
• Effects of bonuses to casting

In the first instance, casting distance requires taking care of the player’s energy reserves. It is physically impossible for an exhausted angler to cast the rig over a long distance.

The initial casting distance is defined by the rod characteristics. For maximum casting distance, use long flexible slow action rods. The weight of the rig should lie within the range of the rod test which is specified in the rod characteristics.

Also, you need to consider aerodynamic characteristics of the rig. Many of them can’t be cast over long distances because of their physical properties. Light wobblers and poppers having a high drag coefficient belong to such type of rigs with complicated aerodynamics.

At first, use small reels to cast light rigs. Pay special attention when choosing the baitcasting reel. These reels enable casting over very long distances, but they are rather demanding towards the lure weight. For fishing with light lures choose low-profile baitcasting reels having a light spool and high-quality ball bearings. Classical round baitcasting reels are better suited for casting heavy lures and jig rigs.

The player’s skills and abilities increase casting distance significantly and should be supplemented early in the game. Distribute your skill points to brushing up the type of reel or rod that you favor.

Fishing line type matters too, casting distance may vary with various types of line.

Some rods add bonuses to casting distance. You can find details on bonuses in the rod description window.

Choosing a spinning rod

When choosing a spinning rod, pay attention to its ideal lure weight or ‘test’. A universal rod with its test covering the weight range of the most popular lures would be the best as the initial spinning rod. As an option you may consider a rod with a rod test of 7-28g, 10-30g or 12-40g. This rod test will suffice for the first rod.

To catch strong predatory fish like pike or zander, you will need a stiff fast-action rod. Such rods are characterized by their high resilience and strength, enough to pierce the hard jaw of the fish and fight its rash maneuvers. On the other hand, you need to take into consideration that a stiff rod often has no outstanding casting characteristics. Choosing a powerful spinning rod means you sacrifice on casting distance.

For fishing with jig rigs you will need a sensitive rod. A sensitive spinning rod enables you to “read” features of the bottom. Thanks to that it will be easy to find underwater slopes, bulges and other particularities that are points of attraction for bottom-water predators.

A soft and light rod is better suited for fishing a tender mouthed predator, like perch or grayling. A too stiff spinning rod may damage its mouth and thus lead to loss of the fish.

Using light rods marked with prefixes (UL, L, ML) and may give you additional experience points. Fishing with light tackle can involve some risk. But when using it for hunting a moderate-size predator, you could get a substantial gain in experience points. Details on bonuses are available in the rod description window.

Figure 15: An example of a light spinning rod series provided with bonus to experience.

Choosing a float rod

When choosing a telescopic rod, pay attention to its length, weight and maximum stress in the first place. A long telescopic rod is good for fishing from a bank. For fishing from a boat, choose a shorter rod. The rod weight defines the angler’s responsiveness to control the fish. It also influences the energy consumption speed. In brief, the lighter the rod, the better. The maximum stress parameter is especially important for a telescopic rod, because it has no reel or friction brake to cushion jerks during reeling in.

Choosing a Bolognese or match rod, consider the rod test; it should cover the weight range of all the rigs you use. Also, pay attention to its stiffness, length and action. A match rod should provide good casting distance and be powerful enough to cope with a large barbel or carp. A long, flexible slow-action rod is suited for long-distance casting. A powerful stiff fast-action rod holds the fish better, making the reeling in process more controllable.

Choosing a bottom rod

When choosing a bottom rod or a feeder rod, consider the conditions in which you are going to use it, and the type of fish for which it is intended. An ordinary medium-action feeder rod with moderate stiffness may be chosen as an all-purpose rod. Such a rod would be good at casting and would provide necessary control of fish.

A picker rod would be a reasonable choice for fishing in small water bodies. Besides being handy in limited space, a picker rod provides a bonus to gained experience. Also, a picker rod allows casting light and sensitive rigs, which has a positive effect on fishing cautious small fish.

A carp rod is an option for big lakes and rivers. A carp rod is perfectly suited for fishing large grass carp, black carp or barbel. Besides fishing peaceful species, such a rod may be used for catching a predator with a heavy baitfish rig.

General tips on choosing a rod

When choosing a rod pay attention to its weight. A heavy rod exhausts the player and makes controlling the fish more tiresome.

Pay attention to the line guides with which the rod is equipped. High-quality line guides cause less wear to the line and make for better casting.

High stiffness of the rod almost always affects setting the hook and the control of fish. However, excessive stiffness may have a negative effect on fishing species with weak lips.

You should note, that the true characteristics of tackle and rig components may differ from the declared ones (provided in the tackle store).

Choosing a reel

When choosing a basic-level reel, it is recommended to focus upon an ordinary spinning reel. As you acquire more experience and money, you can choose a reel based on different settings. Keep in mind that the reel is the most important component next to the rod, as it will bear the main stress.

Study reel characteristics carefully. Pay special attention to friction brake power (Max Drag). The power of the reel itself can be deduced from the friction brake power. This value indicates the maximum stress under which the brake can operate letting out the line, before it gets tightened completely.

When choosing reel size, consider the weight of the rig. For fishing with heavy lures and massive bottom rigs, choose a big reel marked 6000 or bigger. For a casting rod, the best choice would be a round baitcasting reel.

If you intend to work with light rigs, choose a small (3000 to 4000) spinning reel or a low-profile baitcasting reel.

Reels of the smallest size (1000 to 2000) are to be chosen only for rods from the light series (UL, L). For a small reel, the important points are the manufacturer and the price, indicating its reliability. Small reels designed for light spin fishing often undergo serious stress. Therefore it is very important to be able to rely on the reel mechanism.

Figure 16: An example of a small reel for light fishing.

Don’t use small reels for casting heavy rigs, weighting more than 30 grams. If you do so, you risk damaging the reel mechanism.

For powerful feeder rods and carp rods, choose spinning reels of maximum size. Such reels, besides being capable of casting heavy loads, can hold back the onslaught of a large fish.

Speaking of large fish, bigger and more powerful reels are always preferable. Insufficient reel power impedes reeling in and finally leads to the loss of a serious trophy.

Figure 17: An example of a powerful feeder fishing reel.

For fishing strong predatory fish, the best choice would be a baitcasting reel that can be mounted on a casting or a jerkbait rod. If these rods are not available to you yet, focus upon a large spinning reel.

A round baitcasting reel is good for forceful spin fishing with medium to heavy lures, weighing 15 grams or more.

The best application of a low-profile baitcasting reel is working with light and medium-weight lures, weighting up to 25 or 30 grams. Moderate in size, this reel is powerful enough to cope with a medium or even a large predatory fish.

If long-distance casting is your aim, choose baitcasting reels. The round reels are intended for heavy lures, the low-profile ones are for light lures.

Figure 18: A low-profile reel for accurate long-distance casting with light lures.

Choosing a hook

When choosing a hook, pay attention to its price and manufacturer. Cheap hooks will most likely turn out to be of low quality.

The size of the hook to choose depends in the first place on the size of the fish that you intend to catch with it.

Sizes are given in international format. 24 is the smallest, 4/0 is the biggest.

• Large fish, e.g. carp: #4 and bigger.
• Bream: #10 - #6
• Crucian carp, common roach, vimba: #16 - #10
• Small fish, like bleak, dace, gudgeon: #24 - #18.

If you don’t target a particular fish species, we recommend fixing upon sizes from #16 to #12. The hook of such size would suffice for fishing various moderate-size fish.

Figure 19: An example of a hook for fishing small and medium fish.

Consider the size of bait as well. For setting the hook successfully when fishing with small bait like bloodworm or maggot, use hooks with a size up to about #16 to #14.

Choosing fishing line

Each fishing line type has its advantages and disadvantages.

Nylon line is almost invisible in the water, inexpensive and characterized by a high Poisson’s ratio (that means elasticity). Thanks to this, nylon fishing line cushions jerks that are produced by hooked fish. At the same time this trait makes nylon line inefficient for predatory fish species that require a rigid line in order to prevent them from getting off the hook. Nylon line application areas include float and bottom fishing. In some cases it may also be used for spin fishing when a delicate rig is needed.

Braided line is very robust and stiff. It is a perfect solution for a spinning rod. Being too visible, it is useless in float and bottom fishing when targeting cautious fish species. Its application area is spin fishing.

Fluorocarbon line, thanks to its zero visibility in the water, is indispensable when fishing cautious predators like asp, salmon, trout or chub. Its low elasticity provides stiffness, required for setting the hook successfully when fishing pike or zander. It is also characterized for its fairly high damage resistance, which allows using it for fishing sharp-toothed predators without a leader. The application area for fluorocarbon comprises all types of fishing. Among its disadvantages are the high price and its somewhat low breaking strength, compared to other line types.

The choice of line is also defined by the stiffness of tackle. If, for example, high stiffness is required to set the hook confidently when catching zander or pike, you’ll need to choose braided line or fluorocarbon.

Fishing cautious trophy fish (bream, asp, chub etc.) you should use invisible and thin line. Thinner line almost always results in more bites. The only exception is perhaps fishing such rude and careless predators like catfish or pike.

Figure 20: Thin fluorocarbon line is a perfect solution for fishing wary moderate-size fish.

Don’t use a leader if possible. Any extra element in the rig may deter wary fish from biting.

Use fluorocarbon for trolling, if you need to submerge the lure deeper than its normal operating level. Fluorocarbon is characterized by heavy weight and may help to bring the lure slightly deeper during retrieval.

Tackle repair and maintenance

Look after your tackle. Almost any component of your tackle may get damaged. It is especially important to pay attention to the state of the rod and the reel. Wear to them worsens their performance and increases the risk of breaking. Breaking a reel mechanism or a rod blank is fatal, repair is impossible in this case.

Figure 21: Tackle state window.

Look after the reel’s grease. Wear of the reel may result in wear of its mechanism and ball bearings. They are expensive to repair.

The most vulnerable reel components are the friction discs that may wear off under critical stress. Make an effort to replace worn out friction discs in a timely fashion to avoid losing a trophy fish at a crucial moment.

Don’t repair components as line guides, ball bearing or reel spools too often. These components are not repaired, but replaced with the new ones. The price for the replacement depends on the wear degree. Replacing them makes sense only in case of critical wear level.

Tackle repair is available at a workshop. The quality and price of repair depends on the particular workshop. Workshops are different on all locations.

Repair may take some time. Instant repair is offered only for gold coins. In this case the probability of successful repair is 100%.

Fish market

At a fish market, you may sell your catch. Selling caught fish at a fish market is the main source of a player’s income.

You may find a fish market at the fishing base. The price for the fish depends on the location. On some places fish is valued higher, on others lower.

To sell fish, come close to a fish market and press the interaction button [E]. In the pop-up window select the fish, you want to sell. Hold [CTRL] to select several individual fish at the same time or [SHIFT] to select a group of fishes within given range.

Figure 22: Fish market and fish valuation. Rotten fish is marked with a red flag.

Upon selecting a fish you can see its approximate estimated price. It may slightly differ from the final price. Press “Sell” button to accomplish selling the chosen fish.

For each fish there is a specified minimum valued weight that allows you to earn some money by selling it. Specimens under the valued weight are sold for a merely symbolic price.

Trophy fish are sold for higher prices. Strive to catch and sell large fish as it brings you more money.

Rotten fish, that is caught more than one real day ago, are valued at a reduced price.

Store

A tackle store and a supermarket are available to the player. There he or she can buy all items needed for fishing.

Stores are situated at the fishing base. At some locations you may find several stores with different goods sold in them and varying prices.

Each store sets its own margin and offers its own range of goods. If an item can’t be found at one particular location, you need to search for it elsewhere. Also, at some locations you may buy the same items cheaper than at the others.

Goods are delivered to a store with random frequency. If an item is not available, you need to wait for its delivery.

Figure 23: Feeders displayed in the store window.

To buy an item, find a store at the fishing base, come to its door and press the interaction button [E]. In the pop-up window, select the relevant section and find the needed item in the list. Click the item with the left mouse button [LMB] to open the detailed information window, where you can find all possible versions of the item and more detailed information about it.

To unfold the extended description, press the I-icon (small circle with a lower case i), situated in the top right corner of the item image.

Figure 24: Detailed information about a reel with unfolded description.

To buy an item for in-game currency, press the button with a depiction of silver coins on it.

To buy an item for gold, press the button with a depiction of gold coins on it.

Particular goods are sold only for silver or gold coins.

Workshop

At the workshop, you can have your tackle repaired and buy tools or materials for crafting.

Figure 25: A building of a workshop in a village at Winding Rivulet.

Find a workshop at the fishing base, come to its door and press the interaction button [E] to enter. Select “Repair” in the upper bar, if you want to repair your tackle or “Store” if you need to buy tools or materials.

You can familiarize yourself with the store interface in the previous section.

In the repair window, you can see the state of your tackle. For detailed information about the state of an item, click it with the left mouse button [LMB]. A new window will open, displaying the state of all components of the item.

Figure 26: Workshop window displaying estimated state of a reel. The state of the reel components is fine and doesn’t require repair; the screenshot shows the interface.

By selecting the component (or several components by clicking [CTRL] key) that requires repair, you will see the price of repair in silver and gold. The information about the duration of repair for silver coins will also be provided. Repair for gold is executed immediately.

Click the button with silver coins to hand over the object to be repaired for in-game currency. The item remains in the workshop for the whole repair period.

Click the button with gold coins to have the item repaired immediately for gold.

If you select repair for silver and leave an item in the workshop, you will need to pick it up yourself when repair is complete.

Sometimes repair for silver may be unavailable. It may happen that the item that requires the repair was initially sold for gold only. Or the needed spare parts for its repair are out of stock.

The probability of successful repair for silver depends on the workshop. Repair for gold is always successful.

You can find more tips on repair in the “Tackle repair and maintenance” section.

Administration

In the administration building you can purchase paper location maps.

To buy a map find the administration at the fishing base, come to the door and press the interaction button [E].

In the pop-up administration window select the map you need and click it with the left mouse button [LMB] to open detailed information window.

Figure 27: Purchasing a map.

To buy a map, click the button with silver coins in the detailed information window.

The purchased map will occur in your backpack.

To open the map, press [M].

Figure 28: Viewing a location map.

Boat station

In the boat rental building you may buy tickets for boat rental.

To buy a ticket, find a boat rental at the fishing base (if there is any), come to its door and press the interaction button [E]

Figure 29: A boat rental at Volkhov.

In the pop-up boat rental window choose the ticket you need and click it with the left mouse button [LMB] to open the detailed information window.

To buy a ticket, click the button with silver coins in the detailed information window.

Control panel

Figure 30: Control panel.

The control panel provides quick access to the full range of the game functions and settings, as well as to quitting the game.

Press [ESC] to open the control panel.

Location selection window

To open the location selection window, you need to open the control panel [ESC] and click the button with image of the current location.

Figure 31: Location selection window.

In the location selection window you may get the information about the location you are interested in, by clicking it with the left mouse button [LMB]. The detailed information window displays the location description, the required level and the price for travelling to it. To move to the selected location, click the “Travel” button.

The duration of your stay at the location is not limited. The player pays solely for the travel.

Skills

The character has a number of skills. By developing them you may access new abilities and opportunities.

The character’s development tree comprises three main skills:

• Float fishing
• Spin fishing
• Bottom fishing

And four minor skills:

• Skill groundbait
• Skill crafting bait
• Skill crafting lures
• Skill cooking

Each skill consists of abilities. You gain access to them as you improve the skill.

Particular abilities may be improved additionally. Special ability points are provided for that; the player gets them for each achieved level. The quantity of ability points is limited, so spend them wisely.

To improve a skill, you need to carry out actions that are directly related to the skill. For improving fishing skills, fish with related tackle, for improving secondary skills, harvest baits, make lures or mix groundbaits.

To open the character’s skill window, open the control panel [ESC] and press the “Skills” button.

Figure 32: Skills window.

The skills window displays all the player’s skills, the degree of their development and the number of available abilities. Click a skill to view detailed information about it.

Figure 33: Detailed information window for the float fishing skill.

The detailed information window displays all abilities that may become available to the player as he or she improves the skill. Click the skill to view detailed information about it.

The window with the detailed information about an ability that pops up in the right part of the screen, displays the description and improving stages for the ability (if it is available). To improve a particular ability, simply click the button with plus on it.

Improving any ability is not mandatory. The ability will become available anyway as you achieve the required skill level. Improving raises the ability several steps higher, if it is necessary.

Statistics

To view statistics, you need to open the control panel [ESC] and click the “Statistics” button.

Figure 34: Player statistics.

The statistics window contains some interesting information about the player and his/her catches that is collected during the game.

Keepnet

That's where you put your catch. Keepnet has a limited capacity. You should keep that in mind. You won't be able to keep your next catch if your keepnet is at its limit and you will have to release the fish.

Figure 35: Keepnet window where you can view your catch.

To open your keepnet press [C] or you can use control panel to excess it.

The keepnet window displays your catch. For easy viewing of a large number of fish, you can use filters and sorting, whose control buttons are located at the top left side of the window. The icon of each fish displays its brief information and a freshness indicator. The fish retains its freshness within 24 hours from the moment of capture. Click the fish icon with the left mouse button [LMB] to open the detailed information window.

Figure 36: Catch details. In the upper left corner you can see a green flag indicating that the catch is "qualified" and can be sold at a good price.

To let the fish go from the keepnet press "Discard" icon located in the detailed information window.

Achievements

To view personal achievements, open the control panel [ESC], click “Statistics” button and go to “Achievements” tab.

Figure 37: Player’s achievements window.

This window displays a list of all your achievements; their significance can’t be overestimated.

Crafting

The crafting window displays a list of all possible recipes, upon which you can produce or prepare something with your own hands.

To view the crafting window, open the control panel [ESC] and click the “Crafting button”.

Figure 38. Crafting window and a list of recipes.

Choose the needed recipe from the list and click it with the left mouse button [LMB] to view detailed information.

Figure 39: Detailed information window for the recipe of making a Moscow spoon.

In the detailed information window, you can familiarize yourself with possible modifications of the produced item and see a list of tools and components, which are needed for its production.

To use a recipe, select the needed components. As you do it, the backpack window opens in which you should find and select the components. After that, click the “Prepare” button.

The production of an item takes some time. The probability of success depends on your skill level.

The quality of the produced item depends on the player’s skill level. It also depends on the degree to which the ability used for this recipe is improved.

Successfully accomplished crafting may bring the player an additional increase of his or her skill.

Harvesting bait

There are two ways to harvest bait: by means of the crafting window (see the previous section) or using special tools, like a shovel or a scoop.

To use a shovel or a scoop, you need to take them into your hands. You may do it in the backpack window or using the quick item selection window [hold U].

Figure 40: A gardener with a shovel.

Having taken the tool into your hand, press the left mouse button [LMB] to carry out an action: to dig earth or to scoop water.

Digging or scooping is not always successful. Sometimes to achieve a positive result, you need to repeat the action several times. If harvesting is successful, the bait will be viewed and placed into the backpack.

Figure 41: A beetle, harvested by pouring sweat, blood and tears. A supplement reward in the form of skill points is provided.

The quantity and the type of the harvested bait depend on the level that you have achieved in improving your bait harvesting skill. At the initial stage, the player may harvest only worms and redworms. But as the skill develops, the list of baits extends.

Working with a tool consumes a lot of energy. Don’t forget to eat, so harvesting will continue with maximum efficiency. Being hungry won’t allow you to dig or scoop.

Groundbait

To attract fish, you need to make some groundbait and deliver it to the fishing spot. Groundbait may consist of usual and dry mixtures, as well as boilies or pellets.

The usual mixture is a classic viscous mixture for balls and feeders. The main component of the groundbait is the base that can be mixed with additives and attractants.

The dry mixture is the one that doesn’t contain any liquid components. It is used in PVA rocket feeders. The dry mixture may be made without a base.

In order to make a groundbait, open the control panel [ESC] and click the “Groundbait” button. Upon the click, the groundbait type selection menu pops up. Making groundbaits is based on crafting recipes. To get familiar with the process start with learning the Crafting section.

Figure 42: Making a groundbait

For your first groundbait, choose the simplest and the cheapest mixture that is good enough to attract the carp or common roach. A simple mixture must contain the base and an additive.

Crucian carp mixture: ground crackers + millet porridge.

Roach mixture: ground crackers + bloodworm.

Groundbaiting Methods:

1. Casting the ball with your hands. This is the least efficient method because you cannot cast the groundbait at a long distance and also due to a lot of noise that can scare off fish. In order to cast ready-to-use groundbait, you need to pick it up first. You can do that using your backpack or with the quick menu button [hold U] Cast the ball into the water holding the left mouse button [LMB] until the casting force indicator reaches the necessary value.

Figure 43: Getting ready to case the groundbait

2. When fishing with bottom rigs, you can put the groundbait into a feeder. This can be done through the rig components adjustment. Feeders are used with usual groundbaits.

3. A groundbait can be cast with a special rocket feeder, which provides for larger portions and longer distance of delivered groundbait. Rockets are filled with the dry mixture. When a rocket feeder hits the water, it makes a lot of noise that can scare off the fish. Rocket types:

- SPOMB - a fully closed rocket feeder. Can fly at a long distance; opens when hitting the water; provides for compact small-spot groundbait delivery. Efficient when using large-fractioned groundbaits

- SPOD - an open-type rocket feeder. Leaves a groundbait trail. Efficient to create large feeding spots of small-fractioned groundbaits.

4. PVA:

PVA-stick: a water-soluble sack filled with dry groundbait.

PVA-string: a water-soluble string beaded with boilies or pellets.

5. Slingshot: can be used for boilies or pellets, subject to the shape of its bowl.

6. Cobra: is used to cast boilies.

Groundbaiting Recommendations

When making groundbaits, you can use recipes from the crafting section. These recipes are not ideal. You can improve their efficiency through experiments and introduction of new components.

If boilies or pellets make a part of the usual diet for fish you want to catch, adding them to a groundbait may appear really efficient. The boilies or pellets may be used in the mixtures or solely. Moreover, you may use them in one piece or crumble into fractions of different sizes. Use a mixture of whole and crumbled boilies. The more components a mixture contains, the more different fish species it will attract to the fishing ground.

10 balls or 1-2 rocket feeders filled with groundbait will be enough for sufficient initial groundbaiting. Increase the amount of groundbait if you want to catch a larger fish, e.g. the carp. 5 slingshot or cobra shots are enough if you are using pure boilies or pellets as a groundbait. Repeat the groundbaiting after its term expires.

Examples of the Carp Baiting Scenarios

1. Groundbaiting with a rocket feeder filled with dry mixture.

Make the dry mixture with groundbaiting pellets of three different sizes, e.g. 3 mm, 7 mm, and 12 mm. Select the taste of the pellets that corresponds to preferences of the fish in this water body. Use an SPOMB-rocket feeder to deliver the groundbait. This mixture contains large fractions, and this type of rocket feeder will make it possible to deliver them with a minimal scatter. 2 to 3 medium-sized or 1 to 3 large rocket feeders are enough for sufficient baiting. Repeat the baiting in 15 to 20 hours.

2. Groundbaiting with whole boilies.

Use medium-sized boilies, e.g. 15 mm. Select the taste of the boilies that corresponds to preferences of the fish in this water body. Choose the delivery method: a slingshot, a cobra or a PVA-stringer. 4 to 5 slingshot or cobra casts is enough for sufficient baiting. If a PVA stinger is used, 25 boilies are enough. Repeat the baiting in 15 to 20 hours.

The same scheme may be used to groundbait with bait pellets. If that is the case, a slingshot or a PVA-stringer can be used for the groundbait delivery.

Weather

To view the weather forecast, open the control panel [ESC] and click “Weather”. You will see the weather forecast for the next 7 days. The real weather may differ from the forecast, which is quite natural.

Figure 44: Cheerless weather forecast.

The effect of the weather depends on the normal temperature range for the location. If it is normally warm there, colder temperature may have positive effect on fish activity. Clouds and rain will cool the water surface and spark up the fish, which in its turn will increase bites. The temperature, when it is higher than the average, may decrease fish activity and discourage fish from biting.

In case of northern locations, the weather may produce a reverse effect, as when cold water is warmed, the fish on the contrary, becomes more active.

Keep up with forecasts promising thunderstorms that often come along with wind storm. Being caught by such weather in a boat may be rather unpleasant as strong wind will not allow you to enjoy fishing in the open water.

Chat and private messages

Use chat and private messages to communicate with other game users.

To open the chat window press [Q]. Players, displayed in the chat, are currently on the same location with you and in your vicinity. To send a message in the chat enter the text into the special text box in the lower part of the chat window.

The chat also displays particular events and players’ actions. For example, you can see messages about caught trophies, achieved records or about a rod that suddenly got broken.

To access private messages, open the chat window [Q] and go to the “Private messages” tab. Also, you can do it with the control panel [ESC] by clicking “Private messages” in it.

To send a private message to the other player, open the chat window [Q] and go to the “Players” tab. Fellow-players from the same locations are displayed there. If the needed player is not displayed in the list of your neighbors, try searching for him or her using the search line. The search option helps to find the player regardless of his or her position in the game world and online or offline status. To send a message, select the player and click the button marked with an envelope.

Figure 45: Chat and personal message window.

Using personal messages, you may send items. The item sending button appears next to the text box, when you send a message (+). Sending items is only available to premium subscribers. However, any player may receive items.

Premium subscription

Premium subscription adds bonuses and abilities in the game:

• 100% bonus to the experience with every fish caught.
• Increased chance to gain points in fishing skills and crafting abilities.
• Ability to send in-game items purchased with gold coins via privet messages.
• Ability to open privet chat rooms.
• Ability to create competition rooms protected by password.
• Maximum silver buy-in for competitions is tripled.
• "Happy hour" bonus – Experience and skill progression is doubled during "Happy hour". The bonus is activated once daily at the first login and effective for the first RL hour.

Premium subscription may be edited with further game development.

Premium subscription can be purchased through your profile page on the game’s website.

GOLD COINS

Gold is a premium currency that can be used instead of silver to buy equipment or bait that would otherwise have to be acquired through long saving and extensive skill training. In addition, gold is the only currency with which skill points can be reset after the first free redistribution, as well as in competitions with the virtual game currency "gold". If a competition for the gold currency is played, these are premium services. See terms of use and license.

How to earn money

The main source of income in the game is selling fish at the fish market.

A price and a minimum valued weight are set for each fish species; the fish with its weight equal to or above the minimum is valued at full price. The fish under the valued weight is usually sold for a symbolic amount.

The price of a fish depends on its age and weight. You can make maximum gains by selling trophy specimens that are valued highly.

Sell the fish as soon as possible, as rotten fish are sold for reduced prices. Fish remains fresh for one real day.

How to get experience

The player acquires experience when catching fish. Its amount depends on the fish species, on the tackle type and on the rig type.

Tackle type and amount of acquired experience in descending order:

• Float tackle – maximum quantity of experience points
• Spinning rod – medium quantity of experience points
• Bottom tackle – small quantity of experience points

To get an increase of your experience points, try:

• Using ultra-light and light rods, which are most often available for spin fishing enthusiast’s arsenal. Such rods may be recognized by postfix “UL”, “L” and “M” in their model name or by the presence of bonuses in the rod description.
• Using premium subscription
• Resorting to using alcoholic beverages. Alcohol increases the amount of experience points. However, to avoid serious consequences, use it within reasonable limits.

Strive to catch rare and trophy fish that bring you more experience points.

Orders

Orders are one of the options to generate income in the game. They are available for you in the Cafe. To view current orders, approach the Cafe and press interaction key [E].

Fig.46: Cafe Orders

To fulfill the Order you have to catch a certain number of fish of the specified weight in the time table shown in the Orders window. Only fish caught at the same water body where the Order is displayed at will be accepted.

To turn the Order in please go back to the Cafe and select the Order you have completed with your [LMB] then select the fish you want to present by [CTRL]+[LMB] or by using “Select all” icon and press “Sell” icon. Note that rotten fish won’t be accepted.

Fig. 47: Order fulfilment.

Once the Order is complete the fish will be taken from the keep net. Each order can be completed only once.

Competitions

To participate in a competition please open control panel [ESC] and click “Competitions” icon. You can join already created competition or start one yourself.

Figure 48: List of competitions.

Creating a competition

To create a competition please click “+” icon then set your parameters for competition.

Figure 49: Creating a competition.

The competition creator can remove any participant from the competition room and change the parameters at any time before the start of the competition. The “Ready” confirmation will reset if anything changes. Start of the competition will be available only when all participants confirm their readiness.

Figure 50: Preparation for competition.

Participation in competitions

Search competitions list for the one you desire to join and click the name of it. It will take you to the competition preparation room. Make sure to familiarize yourself with the rules and conditions of the competition. Confirm you are ready to start the competition (competition creator cannot start the competition until every participant confirmed his/her readiness). Once the competition is started, a countdown timer will appear in the game window showing the remaining time to the end of the competition. A separate chat is created for competition participants that shows information about catches that will count towards the results of the competition. To view the preliminary results, check parameters and time remaining please press and hold [Tab]

Figure 51: Preliminary results.

Results

At the end of the competition you must press [Tab] and accept the results of the competition.

Figure 52: Results of the competition.

Results are calculated based on the conditions set for the competition:

Total weight - The sum of all caught fish or selected species will count towards the results. The player or the team that has caught the most combined weight is a winner.

Maximum weight - The heaviest weight of any fish or selected specie will count towards the result. The player or the team with the biggest catch wins.

Minimum weight - Either all fish, or a given species of fish will count towards the result. The player or the team who catches the lowest weight wins.

Maximum number of fish - All caught fish or the number of selected species will count towards the results. The player or the team that has caught the most number of fish wins. All fish caught by team members count toward the result.

Maximum number of species - The player or the team that caught most number of fish species wins. All fish caught by team members count toward the result.

Maximum weight of three species - The player or the team that caught the heaviest fish of the selected three species wins. Results are calculate by the following formula; Res = (a.weight / a.maxWeight) + (b.weight / b.maxWeight) + (c.weight / c.maxWeight), where weight – weight of the fish of the set species caught by the player or team member, maxWeight – maximum weight of the fish of the set species caught during the competition.

Rules and regulations

The number of participants in the competition – from 2 to 100

Only premium members can create password locked competitions.

Participation in the competition unlocks at level 10.

The maximum daily competition buy-in with silver coins cannot exceed more than 300 for premium members and 50 for everyone else. If the competition is canceled the buy-in fee will be returned to participants. Buy-in will not be returned if the competition has started.

The competition prize fund is formed by the sum of all buy-ins minus 15% fee (for competitions with silver buy-in). The prize in “All-against-all” competition goes to the single winner of the competition. If it’s a team competition the prize is divided equally between all team members. If there are multiple winners with the same results the prize fund is divided equally between them. If there are no results from the participants of the competition the fund is forfeited (for buy-in with silver coins).

Bonuses

Some items in the game will give you additional bonuses.

The rods available in the shop may be featured with bonuses that add up to your skills, ability, casting distance, experience gained or a combination thereof. Therewith, the rod bonus is added up to the skill or ability of the character. In figure 53, you can see an example of a rod that adds a bonus to the skill and ability. When using this rod, a character with a “Float fishing” skill = 98% and 3 points in the “Waggler rig usage” ability, will get the skill level of 103% and the ability = 5.

Figure 53: A bonus rod

Marking

Marking is scoping the bottom topography, defining the depth and soil type. It is done with a marker rode with a special rig that consists of a marker rig mount at the end of the line preceded by a freely sliding sinker. To define the soil type, you have to cast the marker rig and start slowly reeling in the line [LMB] The type of soil will be displayed above the load scale. To measure the depth, stop reeling in, open the reel [ENTER] and wait for the marker float to show up on the water. The depth at the point will be displayed above the load scale.

Figure 54: Checking the depth and soil type with a marker rod.