Hey Anglers,
In our previous DevDiaries, we introduced the new Rating and Matchmaking system, along with the new Rewarding Leaderboards. Both are aimed at making competitions more structured, everyday fishing more rewarding, and the game in general more engaging for everyone.
Today, we’re back with another look at what’s coming next, focusing on several key areas, including Licenses, Dynamic Competition Commentary, and the introduction of a new Boat.
Let’s get down to what’s coming next!
As we continue to refine the fishing experience on our Planet, we’re placing more focus on keeping it both structured and sustainable. As part of this step, we’re updating how Licenses work.
With this update, we’re introducing the Trophy Catch License to better handle high-value catches. Trophy fish have always been the most commonly kept valuable fish, so they now require a separate License to support healthy fish populations, promote responsible angling, and add more weight to high-value catches.
You’ll now see the Trophy Catch License available as an option when heading out to a waterway. Your Standard License still covers all regular fishing, but if you’re planning to catch Trophy fish, you’ll need to have the Trophy Catch License active.
If you happen to catch a Trophy fish without it, the catch will still count and you’ll receive XP, but a fine will be applied afterward.
Please note that there is no specific License required for Unique fish, as their rarity naturally limits how often they are caught.
To make competitive fishing feel more dynamic and engaging, we’re introducing a new live event feature. During competitions, players will be joined by Gillbert McTroll, our AI-powered fishing commentator. He reacts to player actions in real time, offering short commentary as the event unfolds.
Gillbert follows what’s happening on the water and responds to player performance as it changes throughout the competition. His commentary adds context to the action and helps keep the event feeling continuous and alive.
This system is designed to bring a more broadcast-like atmosphere to tournaments and competitions, helping players stay engaged and better understand how the competition develops moment by moment.
We know how much you enjoy fishing with rod holders, and as the saying goes, you can never have too many. With this update, we’re introducing the HoldKing Fishing Boat, a powerful new vessel equipped with 20 rod holders.
It gives you more freedom to experiment with different setups, baits, and lures, while allowing you to target multiple fish species at the same time.
Please note, to maintain a sense of realism, the HoldKing is designed for a single Angler. It also comes with a fuel system, meaning you’ll need to locate fuel bins across the waterway and refill the boat manually to keep it running. For the same reason, its fish storage is more limited, encouraging a more thoughtful use of space on board.
The HoldKing Fishing Boat will be available as part of a DLC, and we’ll share more details in the next DevDiary.
We hope this update brings more variety and a stronger sense of momentum to your fishing experience, making every session feel more engaging. Stay tuned for upcoming DevDiaries to learn more about our plans for the Catch & Compete Update.
Tight lines, and Happy April Fools’ Day, Anglers!
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*All visual content in this DevDiary was created as part of an April Fools’ joke and does not represent any real upcoming features; nothing shown here is planned for release