Play Fishing Derby Online – Atari 2600 Game

Game Overview

Fishing Derby (1980) by Activision is a competitive two-player Atari 2600 game that pits anglers against each other in a race to catch the most fish. Players control fishermen on either side of a dock, lowering and raising their lines to hook fish swimming at different depths. The challenge comes from avoiding the lurking shark, which can steal your catch if you’re too slow. With its simple controls, fast-paced action, and split-screen multiplayer, Fishing Derby was an early example of head-to-head arcade-style competition on home consoles.

As one of Activision’s first releases, the game showcased the developer’s knack for accessible yet engaging gameplay. Its vibrant visuals (for the time) and tense moments—like outmaneuvering the shark or snagging a fish just before your opponent—made it a memorable title in the Atari 2600 library. While basic by today’s standards, Fishing Derby remains a fun, competitive relic of early console gaming.