Fishing in GTA 6 will be as extensive as in RDR2 – but there’s a catch

Beyond the main crime story, GTA 6 (available for pre-order on Amazon) is expected to feature numerous recreational activities – alongside diving, basketball and mini-golf, these also include fishing, which Rockstar has already shown in images and the Extended Look. Until now, however, it was unclear just how extensive the mini-game would be. New information has now come from Rob Nelson, development chief and co-studio head of Rockstar North. According to YouTuber TGG, who spoke with Nelson, the fishing system will be about as extensive as the one in Red Dead Redemption 2 – but with one major difference.

In Red Dead Redemption 2, players first attach a suitable bait to the hook, cast the line and slowly reel it in until a fish bites. They then have to tire the fish out by alternating between reeling it in and resisting its movements until it can finally be pulled ashore. Fishing in GTA 6 will likely work in a similar way. However, according to TGG, Rockstar is exclusively using a “catch and release” system. Unlike in Red Dead Redemption 2, players will therefore not be able to keep, eat or sell the fish they catch.

According to Nelson, keeping the fish simply did not fit the game. However, that does not mean spending time by the water will be pointless. According to TGG, fishing will be tied to challenges, collectibles and parts of the story. Rockstar mentions both the Leonida Keys and the wilderness of Mount Kalaga as potential fishing locations. However, it is not yet known what species of fish, bait or rewards will be available.

On Reddit, the restriction is dividing opinions. Some users are disappointed. They would have liked to sell or cook their catches, or display them as trophies at their hideout. Others consider releasing the fish understandable: After all, a career criminal in Vice City will probably have more lucrative ways of making money than selling a few bass.