Welcome to the first devlog for Fish & Hike. It is a cozy, fairytale adventure game with RPG elements that combines relaxing fishing with dynamic exploration and combat.

In the game, you play as Dr. Shiberson - a Shiba Inu dog and a curious cartographer who arrives in the Valley of Eight Lakes for a peaceful vacation. However, you quickly discover that the locals need your help, and there is a much bigger story behind it all.

Your main goal will be to catch 4 legendary Golden Fish and find ancient artifacts. With these, you will rebuild the Obelisk Shrine and bring back the rightful ruler of the waters - the Fish King!

Your primary means of transportation across the Eight Lakes is your trusty boat. Upgrading it over time is the key to exploring further and reaching the most secluded, bountiful fishing spots hidden throughout the valley

Once you cast your line, the real challenge begins! Fishing is an engaging, skill-based mini-game focused on carefully balancing line tension. To catch the rarest specimens, you'll need to think like a fish: match the right rod and bait, and always pay attention to the time of day.

But pulling a giant fish out of the water is only half the battle, you also have to fit it into your bag! Inventory management requires a bit of spatial puzzle-solving, as space is limited and some fish are massive. Packing your catches efficiently is crucial while out on the water, though keeping your backpack organized will be just as important when gathering items on the trails.

Stepping off your boat is just the beginning of your adventure! The Valley of Eight Lakes is vast, featuring four completely unique biomes. Each region offers a distinct environment and fresh challenges to overcome as you hike through the wilderness.

A cozy adventure doesn't have to be stressful, even when things get a little wild. Fish & Hike features a balanced, stress-free melee combat system. As you explore hidden caves and winding forest trails, you will regularly face off against cute-looking yet mischievous monsters.

But Fish & Hike isn't just about catching the biggest fish or battling monsters. The Valley of Eight Lakes is absolutely brimming with mysteries! As you stray from the beaten path, you will stumble upon 15 hidden caves and engaging logic puzzles that guarding valuable treasures and ancient secrets.

During your expeditions, you will also gather various plant ingredients and materials. These are essential for crafting special elixirs and unique baits to help you catch those legendary fish. Whenever you need a break, head over to the cozy town of Perchville to trade your findings, upgrade your gear, or buy stamina-restoring meals from the friendly locals.

Finally, there's an important environmental mission to tackle. You will often fish out trash from the lakes. Don't just throw it back! Recycling waste not only keeps the picturesque valley beautiful, but it also directly builds your reputation among the townsfolk, eventually unlocking their deepest secrets and new quests.

The game launches in Early Access on June 4th! We decided to take this step to spend the next few months polishing the balance and developing the game with your help (including adding a progression system and CAPYBARAS!).

The full 1.0 release is planned for 2026, with the exact date depending on many factors, including player feedback.

Stay pawsitive and keep it REEL!

The Fish & Hike Team