Rule Question 1
Do you have to be at the same depth as a fish to catch it? Can you catch fish above or below your current depth?
Rulesplainer 1
You can only catch fish at your current depth or at depths that are above your boat (closer to the surface). You cannot catch fish below your current depth. For example, if you are at depth 3, you can fish at depths 1, 2, or 3, but not at depth 4. The confusion often comes from reading the depth numbers as “higher” being “deeper,” but in this game, lower numbers (like 1) are considered above higher numbers (like 3).
Dropping Sinkers and Catching Fish At Your Depth
Rule Question 2
When exactly can you use the Drop Sinkers action during your turn? Is it before paying for or catching fish, or at another point?
Rulesplainer 2
The Drop Sinkers action must be done before you begin your Fishing action, specifically before you cast your line. This means you may move down to a deeper depth by paying dice as a free action multiple times, but only before you start fishing. Once you have started the fishing process (casting), you cannot drop sinkers until your next turn.
Dropping Sinkers and Catching Fish At Your Depth
Rule Question 3
If you have an ability to peek at or reveal a fish, can you do this at any depth, or only at your current depth?
Rulesplainer 3
Abilities or effects that let you peek at or reveal a fish can target any depth on the board, not just your current depth. You can use these abilities to scout what fish are available at lower depths before deciding whether to drop sinkers. This strategic information helps you determine if it’s worth moving to a deeper spot for a better catch.
Dropping Sinkers and Catching Fish At Your Depth
Rule Question 4
During the Fishing action, are you allowed to cast at a deeper depth than your current boat position, or only at your current depth or higher (shallower)?
Rulesplainer 4
When you take the Fishing action, you can only cast at your current depth or at a shallower (higher/above) depth. You cannot cast at a deeper (lower) depth unless you have already dropped sinkers to that depth. Once you cast, you must fish from the shoal you chose and can’t switch to another after revealing.
Dropping Sinkers and Catching Fish At Your Depth
Rule Question 5
If you reveal a fish during your turn and decide not to go for it, can you catch a different fish from another depth without moving there first?
Rulesplainer 5
No, after you cast at a depth and reveal a fish, you must continue with either catching that fish or taking a dink. You cannot then catch a different fish from another depth unless you first move your boat (using Drop Sinkers before casting). Any abilities or reveals should be done before starting the Fishing action if you want to change depths to go after a different fish.
Dropping Sinkers and Catching Fish At Your Depth
Ronda El 
