Fishing: A Trend in Gaming and Casino, Now Popular with Celebrities

It's said that fishing began in around 40,000 BCE. Since then, it has become one of the most popular hobbies across the world, with competitive events even coming to the forefront. Given the undeniable popularity of the pastime, it's hardly surprising that numerous game developers and celebrities immerse themselves in the wonders of fishing. So, let's analyze the activity's growth within the gaming industry and beyond, while also looking at well-known stars who enjoy being out on the water.

An Activity on the Rise

Fishing as a hobby has changed quite significantly over time, including in terms of popularity. As of 2018, the Outdoor Industry Association's report on fishing found that 49.1 million people participated in the pastime at least once in 2017. Interestingly, this was the highest total since 2007.

It's a testament to the sector's popularity that fishing has since become a popular theme with game developers. Back in February 2018, Misc Games released Fishing: Barents Sea - a single-player simulator - on PC, PlayStation 4, and Xbox One. Furthermore, the activity has also become a focal point at online casinos, as evident by the casino game Fishin' Frenzy. The five-reel development takes place out at sea, and there are over 15,600 different ways to win. The title's aesthetics intertwines realism with jackpot-winning thrills as combinations and wild icons enhance user immersion.

Brad Pitt

Although fishing has never been uncool, its reputation certainly hasn't been hindered since Brad Pitt first took to the water. According to a report by Salt Strong, the 56-year-old old actor discovered his love of fishing when preparing for his role as Paul Maclean in A River Runs Through It during the early 1990s. Despite the film hitting big screens in 1992, it's influence on the world-renowned star has lasted for several decades as he continues to embrace the ever-popular pastime.

Following the release of the film and Pitt's portrayal of a fly fisherman, participation levels rose with men wanting to be like the Moneyball star, as per Medium. This is a primary example of the power that celebrities have in relation to trendsetting. Not only did the 53-year-old find a new hobby for himself, but he also inspired many others to enjoy fishing and its relaxing nature.

Paris Hilton

In an article at Crownline, Paris Hilton is quoted as saying that she "loves to go fishing". In a Twitter post from 2015, the now 39-year-old was pictured out at sea with her at-the-time boyfriend, Thomas Gross. Despite her glamorous persona, Hilton has never shied away from expressing her love for various sports, including fishing.

Because of her admiration for the much-loved pastime, the multitalented American businesswoman has set her sights on combating the adverse effects of the fishing industry. She, along with other celebrities, have invested in Good Catch, a plant-based seafood company that seeks to battle warming oceans and excessive waste products.

Continuing to be a Go-To Theme and Pastime

As both a gaming topic and a hobby, the popularity of fishing is arguably at an all-time high. Its focus within numerous games highlights its contemporary appeal among millennial audiences. Moreover, the actions of celebrities aid in sustaining fishing's mainstream attraction. In turn, this helps to heighten participation levels in titles like Fishing: Barents Sea and Fishin' Frenzy.