17+ Best Movies About Fishing (List)

Fishing has long been a popular pastime and a source of inspiration for filmmakers.

The serene beauty of the water, the thrill of the catch, and the camaraderie among fishermen have all been captured on the silver screen.

Whether you’re an avid angler or simply appreciate a good fishing story, there are several movies that showcase the sport in all its glory.

Best Movies About Fishing

“A River Runs Through It” (1992)

Directed by Robert Redford

Story of two brothers bonded by fly-fishing

“The Old Man and The Sea” (1958)

Based on Hemingway’s novel

A fisherman’s epic battle with a marlin

“The Perfect Storm” (2000)

Directed by Wolfgang Petersen

Swordfishing crew confronts a monstrous storm

“Salmon Fishing in the Yemen” (2011)

Directed by Lasse Hallström

A sheikh’s dream to bring fly-fishing to the desert

“Jaws” (1975)

Directed by Steven Spielberg

A great white shark terrorizes a fishing community

“The River Why” (2010)

Directed by Matthew Leutwyler

A young man’s self-discovery through fly-fishing

“Leviathan” (2012)

Directed by Lucien Castaing-Taylor and Verena Paravel

Documentary about commercial fishing in the North Atlantic

“Alaskan Nets” (2021)

Directed by Jeff Harasimowicz

A basketball and fishing documentary set in Alaska

“Big Fish” (2003)

Directed by Tim Burton

A son learns about his dying father’s extraordinary life

“Pirates of the Caribbean: On Stranger Tides” (2011)

Directed by Rob Marshall

Fictional quest for the Fountain of Youth, featuring mermaids

“Finding Nemo” (2003)

Directed by Andrew Stanton

Animated adventure of fish trying to reunite with family

“The Fish That Saved Pittsburgh” (1979)

Directed by Gilbert Moses

Basketball team uses astrology to improve their game

“Grumpy Old Men” (1993)

Directed by Donald Petrie

Rivalry and romance among aging fishermen

“Ondine” (2009)

Directed by Neil Jordan

A fisherman catches a mysterious woman in his net

“The Incredible Mr. Limpet” (1964)

Directed by Arthur Lubin

A man transforms into a fish and helps the U.S. Navy

“Bait” (2012)

Directed by Kimble Rendall

Survivors of a tsunami face sharks in a flooded supermarket

“Captain Ron” (1992)

Directed by Thom Eberhardt

A family inherits a yacht and embarks on a wild adventure

Note that while all these movies have some connection to fishing, not all are centered around the act of fishing itself. Some use fishing as a backdrop or metaphor for the main story.

Below we look more at some of the best movies about fishing, highlighting their unique qualities and why they are worth watching.

Table of Contents

Best Movies About Fishing

Documentaries:

“The End of the Line” (2009)
- A documentary that explores the devastating effect that overfishing has on the world’s fish populations.
“Leviathan” (2012)
- An experimental documentary that captures the collaborative clash of man, nature, and machine, shot on a dozen cameras swirling around and swooping in and out of a fishing vessel.

Drama:

“A River Runs Through It” (1992)
- Directed by Robert Redford, this film is about two brothers who bond over fly fishing.
“The Old Man and The Sea” (1958)
- Based on the novel by Ernest Hemingway, this film tells the story of an aging fisherman who engages in an epic battle to catch a giant marlin.
“Salmon Fishing in the Yemen” (2011)
- A romantic drama-comedy about a fisheries expert who is approached by a consultant to help realize a sheik’s vision of bringing the sport of fly-fishing to the desert.

Adventure:

“The Perfect Storm” (2000)
- A dramatic adventure film about a commercial fishing vessel lost at sea during a monstrous storm.
“All Is Lost” (2013)
- While not strictly about fishing, the ocean setting and survival theme make it relevant to those interested in sea-faring tales.

Family/Animated:

“Ponyo” (2008)
- An animated film by Studio Ghibli, centered around a fish who wants to become a human.
“Finding Nemo” (2003)
- A beloved animated film about a clownfish searching for his lost son.

Comedy:

“Gone Fishin’” (1997)
- A comedy about two fishing enthusiasts who get in over their heads when they win a trip to the Everglades.

Others:

“Alaskan Nets” (2021)
- A documentary about a high school basketball team in a fishing village in Alaska.
“Big Fish” (2003)
- A fantastical film by Tim Burton that, while not centered on fishing, uses it as a significant metaphor throughout the movie.
“The Fisherman” (2015)
- A short film about a fisherman who receives a mysterious radio signal that changes his life.

TV Shows:

“Wicked Tuna” (2012-present)
- A reality television series about commercial tuna fishermen based in Gloucester, Massachusetts.
“River Monsters” (2009-2017)
- A British and American wildlife documentary television programme produced for Animal Planet by Icon Films of Bristol, United Kingdom.

Honorable Mentions:

“Captain Ron” (1992)
- A comedy about a family that inherits a yacht and hires a wayward captain to help them navigate the waters and a series of adventures.
“Grumpy Old Men” (1993)
- A comedy about two lifelong friends and neighbors who enjoy ice fishing and find themselves competing for the affections of the same woman.

Again, while not all of these films are solely about fishing, they all feature fishing or related themes in some capacity.

The Old Man and the Sea (1958)

Based on Ernest Hemingway’s classic novel, “The Old Man and the Sea” tells the story of an aging Cuban fisherman named Santiago, played by Spencer Tracy.

Santiago sets out on a solo fishing expedition and engages in a battle of wills with a giant marlin.

The film beautifully captures the perseverance and determination of the old man as he struggles to bring in his prized catch.

Tracy’s powerful performance earned him an Academy Award nomination, and the film remains a timeless portrayal of the indomitable human spirit.

A River Runs Through It (1992)

Directed by Robert Redford, “A River Runs Through It” is a coming-of-age story set against the backdrop of fly fishing in Montana.

The film follows the lives of two brothers, Norman and Paul Maclean, as they navigate the complexities of family, love, and the natural world.

The stunning cinematography and lyrical storytelling make this movie a visual feast for the eyes.

“A River Runs Through It” is not just about fishing; it’s a meditation on life, love, and the connections we forge with nature and each other.

The Perfect Storm (2000)

While not solely focused on fishing, “The Perfect Storm” is a gripping tale of a commercial fishing boat caught in the midst of a catastrophic storm.

Based on a true story, the film depicts the harrowing experiences of the crew of the Andrea Gail as they battle against the elements in their quest for a lucrative catch.

The movie showcases the dangers and challenges faced by fishermen in pursuit of their livelihood, highlighting the bravery and resilience required to survive in such treacherous conditions.

Jaws (1975)

Although primarily known as a thriller, “Jaws” features several memorable fishing scenes that have become iconic in cinematic history.

The film follows a police chief, a marine biologist, and a shark hunter as they team up to hunt down a great white shark terrorizing a small coastal town.

The fishing sequences in “Jaws” are intense and suspenseful, capturing the thrill and danger of the hunt.

While not a traditional fishing movie, “Jaws” showcases the power and unpredictability of the ocean, reminding us of the risks inherent in pursuing our passions.

The Life Aquatic with Steve Zissou (2004)

Directed by Wes Anderson, “The Life Aquatic with Steve Zissou” is a quirky and whimsical film that combines elements of comedy, adventure, and drama.

The story revolves around an eccentric oceanographer, played by Bill Murray, who sets out on a mission to hunt down the elusive jaguar shark that killed his partner.

While not strictly about fishing, the movie features several fishing scenes and explores themes of obsession, redemption, and the search for meaning.

With its distinctive visual style and offbeat humor, “The Life Aquatic with Steve Zissou” offers a unique take on the fishing genre.

FAQs – Best Movies About Fishing

1. What are some other notable movies about fishing?

Some other notable movies about fishing include “The River Runs Wild” (1960), “Salmon Fishing in the Yemen” (2011), “Big Fish” (2003), and “Grumpy Old Men” (1993).

2. Are there any documentaries about fishing worth watching?

Yes, there are several documentaries that provide an insightful look into the world of fishing.

“The Endless Summer” (1966) follows two surfers as they travel the world in search of the perfect wave, while “Rivers and Tides” (2001) explores the work of artist Andy Goldsworthy, who creates stunning sculptures using natural materials found in rivers and streams.

3. Are there any fishing movies suitable for children?

Yes, there are a few fishing movies that are suitable for children.

“Finding Nemo” (2003) is an animated film that tells the story of a clownfish named Marlin as he searches for his son, Nemo, who has been captured by a scuba diver.

“The Little Mermaid” (1989) also features a memorable fishing scene and is a beloved classic for children.

4. Are there any foreign films about fishing worth watching?

Yes, there are several foreign films that explore the theme of fishing. “Leviathan” (2014), a Russian film, offers a gritty and realistic portrayal of the fishing industry.

“Theeb” (2014), a Jordanian film, follows a young Bedouin boy as he embarks on a dangerous journey through the desert, encountering fishermen along the way.

5. Are there any fishing movies that focus on conservation and environmental issues?

Yes, “Rivers of a Lost Coast” (2008) is a documentary that examines the decline of wild salmon populations in California and the efforts to restore their habitats.

“The Fisherman’s Son” (2015) tells the story of a young Chilean surfer turned activist who fights to protect his local coastline from industrial pollution.

6. Are there any fishing movies that combine comedy and fishing?

Yes, “Grumpy Old Men” (1993) is a comedy film that follows two feuding neighbors who compete against each other in a fishing contest.

The movie is filled with humorous moments and showcases the joys and frustrations of fishing.

7. Are there any fishing movies that focus on ice fishing?

Yes, “Grumpy Old Men” (1993) and its sequel “Grumpier Old Men” (1995) both feature ice fishing as a central theme.

The movies follow the comedic adventures of two elderly friends as they engage in a friendly rivalry on the frozen lakes of Minnesota.

8. Are there any fishing movies that explore the cultural significance of fishing?

Yes, “The River Why” (2010) is a coming-of-age film that delves into the spiritual and cultural aspects of fishing.

The movie follows a young man as he embarks on a journey of self-discovery and finds solace in the rivers and streams of Oregon.

9. Are there any fishing movies that focus on competitive fishing?

Yes, “The Big Year” (2011) is a comedy film that revolves around the world of birdwatching, which can be seen as a form of competitive fishing.

The movie follows three avid birdwatchers as they compete to spot the most bird species in a single year.

10. Are there any fishing movies that explore the relationship between humans and fish?

Yes, “The Shape of Water” (2017) is a fantasy film that tells the story of a mute janitor who forms a unique bond with an amphibious creature.

While not strictly about fishing, the movie explores themes of empathy and connection between humans and aquatic creatures.

11. Are there any fishing movies that focus on deep-sea fishing?

Yes, “The Perfect Storm” (2000) and “Jaws” (1975) both feature deep-sea fishing as a central theme.

These movies depict the dangers and excitement of fishing in the open ocean, where fishermen encounter larger and more formidable species.

12. Are there any fishing movies that showcase the beauty of nature?

Yes, “A River Runs Through It” (1992) and “The Life Aquatic with Steve Zissou” (2004) both showcase the beauty of nature in their respective settings.

These movies capture the serenity and majesty of rivers, oceans, and the creatures that inhabit them.

13. Are there any fishing movies that focus on the emotional and psychological aspects of fishing?

Yes, “The Old Man and the Sea” (1958) and “The Life Aquatic with Steve Zissou” (2004) both delve into the emotional and psychological depths of fishing.

These movies explore themes of perseverance, obsession, and the search for meaning.

14. Are there any fishing movies that are based on true stories?

Yes, “The Perfect Storm” (2000) and “The Old Man and the Sea” (1958) are both based on true stories.

These movies offer a glimpse into the real-life experiences of fishermen and the challenges they face.

15. Are there any fishing movies that are suitable for a family movie night?

Yes, “Finding Nemo” (2003) and “The Little Mermaid” (1989) are both family-friendly movies that feature fishing as part of their storylines.

These films offer a mix of adventure, humor, and heartwarming moments that can be enjoyed by viewers of all ages.

Summary – Best Movies About Fishing

Fishing has provided filmmakers with a rich source of material, resulting in a diverse range of movies that capture the essence of the sport.

From tales of perseverance and adventure to meditations on life and nature, these films offer something for everyone.

“The Old Man and the Sea” showcases the indomitable human spirit, while “A River Runs Through It” explores the connections between family, love, and the natural world.

“The Perfect Storm” and “Jaws” highlight the dangers and challenges faced by fishermen, while “The Life Aquatic with Steve Zissou” takes a whimsical and unconventional approach to the genre.

Related