It’s clear that AI is having a more profound impact on an increasing number of industries. In healthcare, finance and manufacturing, its influence is really being felt, from diagnostics to data security and quality control. But elsewhere, the AI effect is changing and improving less obvious pursuits. Sports fishing is one of them.
Whether from a camping chair by the riverside or a boat in the ocean, the industry in 2026 is embracing the AI revolution. It is doing so through artificial intelligence that assists anglers’ decision-making with data. In other words, it’s removing pure intuition to give fishing enthusiasts a better chance of landing a catch.
A variety of apps have become popular, ranging from those that help with location finding and identifying species to those that support compliance and knowledge building.
A standout is Fishbrain, which incorporates AI to inform its BiteTime program. Using AWS-based machine learning models, Fishbrain takes the analysis of millions of user-submitted catches to provide a predictive algorithm detailing when specific species are most likely to be caught. And leveraging data on historical trends and current conditions, it produces guidance on specific baits and lures that have proven successful with other anglers at the same location and time.
FishBrain is increasingly being used alongside apps such as FishAngler and its proprietary model for predicting feeding windows, and Fish AI, which has been developed to support anglers in improving their techniques through personalized training programs.
The prevalence of sports fishing apps is understandable given the growth of the industry in recent years. In 2023, it was worth $23 million. By 2033, it is expected that the market will reach over $200 million. This mainstream appeal is increasingly visible. The 2024 edition of Major League Fishing’s Heavy Hitters broke all the viewing records. Livestream minutes jumped 67% over the previous year. Even on the high street, we’re seeing the rise of so-called “anglercore”, a utility-inspired fashion trend featuring the sorts of gilets and cargo pants you’d usually see on the riverbank.
In iGaming, the fishing-themed series of Big Bass slots, like Trophy Catch and Vegas Double Down, are among the leading titles at bingo game and casino sites. Meanwhile, some of YouTube’s most-viewed channels focus on sports fishing, such as Fish with Carl. The eponymous host’s competitive series against fellow fisherman, Alex, has so far had over four million views. Not only are more people picking up a rod as a result of this trend, but AI technology is also helping them quickly develop their skills. That combination is part of the reason why the industry is surging right now.
As innovative developers continue to seek new ways to add value to their products, the sports fishing industry is braced for a further tech revolution. Indeed, companies like Furono have already made breakthroughs in boat safety. The firm is utilizing AI for its digital copilot. Using detection tools, the software scans the water to detect if other boats or obstacles are present. It can then divert the boat to avoid a collision.
Additionally, FishVerify is evolving into a tool for anglers to identify species from a single photo, and manufacturers of lures are now combining AI with 3D printing to produce bait that is more realistic. More recently, lures have emerged on the market fitted with EBS, a technology that mimics the sounds and movement of baitfish.
By replacing pure intuition with data-informed strategy, AI is changing the way today’s anglers are fishing. As the industry continues its rapid growth, these sophisticated tools are helping enthusiasts of all levels refine their skills. Ultimately, this technological evolution ensures that the future of fishing remains both engaging and sustainable.