Go Fish is the game that teaches the whole world to hold cards. Ask an opponent for a rank you already hold; if they have it, they must hand it over — if not, you “go fish” from the pond. Collect the most four-of-a-kind books to win.
Our computer opponents remember what you ask for (with charmingly human lapses), so every question you ask is also information you give away.
How to Play Go Fish by Yourself
- Deal 7 cards to yourself and each of the three computer players; the rest becomes the pond.
- On your turn, ask one opponent for a rank you hold at least one of.
- If they have cards of that rank, they hand over all of them — and you go again.
- If not, they say “Go fish!” and you draw one card from the pond.
- Complete a book of all four cards of a rank and lay it down.
- When every book is claimed, the player with the most books wins.
Rules of Go Fish
- You may only ask for a rank you already hold in your hand.
- A successful ask gives you another turn; “go fish” passes the turn on.
- Drawing the exact rank you asked for lets you keep your turn (classic rule).
- Books (all four of a rank) are laid face up immediately.
- The game ends when all thirteen books are complete.
Winning Strategies for Go Fish
- Remember every ask — anyone who requests 9s has 9s, and so does anyone who took yours.
- Ask for ranks you hold three of; the last card has only one place to hide.
- Vary your questions so opponents can’t map your whole hand from your asks.
- Late in the game, count the pond: sometimes fishing is genuinely better than asking.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I play Go Fish alone?
Yes — this version pits you against three computer players with tuned memory, so the classic family game works great solo.
How many cards do you deal in Go Fish?
With four players, seven cards each is standard. The remaining cards form the draw pile, or “pond.”
Do you ask for a rank or a specific card?
A rank. Asking “do you have any sevens?” collects every 7 that opponent holds, whatever the suits.
Is Go Fish good for kids?
It is one of the best: it quietly trains memory, turn-taking and honest play, and a round takes about ten minutes.
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If you like Go Fish, try one of these next — same beautiful deck, brand-new challenge.