Even if you only get to fish on the weekends or on vacation, fishing is likely a passion for you; a way of life. So, getting a fishing tattoo is only natural.
As an artist, I have designed countless fishing tattoos over the years. From the standard fishing pole and little hook to entire landscapes, I have done it all. In this guide, I will introduce you to all the tattoo designs you can choose from.
Here are your options:
If fishing is your passion, then you will undoubtedly put up a few 'Gone Fishing' signs yourself! Naturally, it only makes sense to carry this sign with you in the form of a fishing tattoo wherever you go.
This is one of the most underrated tattoo designs as far as fishing tattoos are concerned, but you can still get some inspiration from these images:
Image by @artbybug via Instagram
Image by @MeaghanSienkiewicz via Pinterest
Image by @hauldren01 via Pinterest
Fly fishing is serious business - it's so much more than a hobby - it's practically a sport! So, if you are a fly fishermen, these are some of the best fishing tattoos you can get.
On the surface, this can seem like such a simple fishing tattoo - just a silhouette of a fisherman and his fly fishing rod. However, the shade technique takes this ink to the next level. There are so many little details that bring this fishing tattoo to life.
Image by @moskeart via Instagram
This fishing tattoo also includes a gorgeous and tranquil background. At the same time, it is minimalistic and simple.
Image by @peiferhunter via Pinterest
Here, the details make all the difference. The shading with the white and the blue give this fishing tattoo a lot of dimension as well.
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Image by @lily_h_b via Instagram
Those times when you aren't out fishing can be tough. This is where these beautiful fishing tattoos can come in handy - it will remind you of better times. A perfect little scene outlined by a fly fishing rod.
If you're looking for some unusual fly fishing tattoo ideas, this one may inspire you. What's great about it is that it has such a classic look, making it a timeless fishing tattoo.
Image by @sailorroman via Instagram
A fishing rod tattoo isn't just one of the best tattoos you can get - it is also one of the most iconic!
These tats are are also great if you're looking for inspiration for simple fishing tattoos:
Image by @rembrandt_tattoo via Instagram
Image by @lynschaefer via Instagram
Image by @vlad_octavian_tattooist via Instagram
Image by @rbtattooartist via Instagram
Image by @federico.yarza via Instagram
Image by @spookysophietattoo via Instagram
Of course, if you want a more detailed and complex fishing tattoo, here is a design to consider:
Image by @foxinkcreations via Instagram
Check out how creative this one is! It's perfect for fishing lovers with a sense of humor.
Image by @killainkstudio_vic_ via Instagram
Fishing hook tattoos are some of the best fishing tattoos you can get. It's such a simple yet meaningful way to tell the world that you love fishing.
These fishing tattoos are the very definition of it, in fact! Two hooks joining together to form a heart - how cute is that?
The other great thing about this fishing tattoo is that it works on a small scale as well. This means that you can get it in a more discreet place.
Image by @kowalski.tattoo via Instagram
This is a good idea for anyone loves hunting as well as fishing. Here, a fishing hook meets an antler.
Image by @too.lazy.for.life via Instagram
This is a truly gorgeous piece of ink - both the hook as well as the water splash look incredibly realistic. The vibrancy of this fishing tattoo makes it feel alive.
Image by @bigslo_tattoos via Instagram
If you want to show that fishing has got its hooks in you, what better way to do this than with this tattoo?
Image by @meganjeanstattoos via Instagram
If you want to get a fishing lure tattoo, you are in luck! There is so much inspiration for this design idea as it's incredibly popular among fishermen and fisherwomen.
There are so many of these fishing tattoos because there is so much meaning behind a fishing lure. It is often a result of dedication and hard work. Some people have spent years trying to figure out the perfect lure.
For others, these kinds of fishing tattoos have sentimental value. The lure may have been given to them by a loved one. Or, it could be a design that was passed down from generation to generation.
This fishing lure tattoo is actually a replica of the lure that the fisherman uses himself. If you have one that's near and dear to you, get that likeness inked on.
Image by @ajmcguiretattoos via Instagram
Check out this Rapala lure. What makes it so cool is that the tattoo artist has mimicked the painted effect of the lure. This way, it looks a lot more realistic. I also love the added detail of the hook embedded in the skin.
Image by @fishingtattoos via Instagram
If you prefer lures that are true to their form and design, these are some fishing tattoos to consider:
Image by @inkriver.daniel via Instagram
Image by @joeleyojatattoo via Instagram
Image by @jon_doe_tattoos via Instagram
If you prefer a more artistic take on such a fishing tattoo, here are some fishing tattoos that you should be taking a closer look at:
Image by @kyosquee via Instagram
Image by @jossan_alternativeart via Instagram
Image by @russelllucky7tahoe via Instagram
Image by @river__vibes via Instagram
Image by @gabe_the_greek via Instagram
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Image by @lakesideinkbarrie via Instagram
Of course, as any fisherman worth his salt knows, you need different types of lures to catch different kinds of fish. Here are fishing tattoos of a full arsenal:
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There is no feeling quite like when a fish is about to swallow a hook or is already caught on one. The triumph of victory and the relief at having your patience pay off; there really are no words to describe such a moment.
This is why these fishing tattoos do a much better job of portraying this experience:
Image by @littleinkliv via Instagram
Image by @ajmcguiretattoos via Instagram
Image by @divine_machine_tattoo_wa via Instagram
Image by @drewlr via Instagram
Image by @drewlr via Instagram
Image by @ajmcguiretattoos via Instagram
Image by @s.q.u.i.d.vicious via Instagram
Image by @turtle.tattooz via Instagram
Is there anything more beautiful than casting a line surrounded by the wonders of Mother Nature?
Luckily, you can capture this beauty in the form of a detailed fishing tattoo. These kinds of fishing tattoos are some truly exquisite works of art.
Such fishing tattoos are also great reminders of the pastime that you love so much. These tattoos may even inspire other fishing lovers!
As you can see, there are plenty of scenes to choose from. What makes these some of the best fishing tattoos is that these scenes may remind you of some of your own fishing trips.
Not only can you carry fishing with you wherever you go, but take your favorite memories too.
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Image by @cago_tattoo via Instagram
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Image by @truthcustomtattoo via Instagram
Image by @yankeetattooink via Instagram
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These are great tattoo ideas for people who love fishing as well as the great outdoors. It is also ideal if you are look for a larger tattoo:
Image by @j.vandytattoos via Instagram
Image by @roman_tkachtattoo via Instagram
Of course, like any good fisherman, you may be just as interested in what's happening beneath the surface of the water as on the topside.
This is why these are some of the best fishing tattoos for a lifelong fisherman.
Image by @nicolevtattoos via Instagram
Image by @fishingtattoos via Instagram
There is a good chance that you were introduced to fishing by someone you loved. It could have been a father, grandfather, friend, or partner.
So, if this person is no longer with you, it only makes sense to get a memorial tattoo with a fishing theme. After all, it's what brought you even closer together.
As you can see from these fishing tattoos, there are lots of ideas to borrow from:
Image by @srain_bolt via Instagram
Image by @joe_tattoo92 via Instagram
Image by @vellichortattoo via Instagram
Image by @blvcklotustattoo via Instagram
Image by @flamineighttattoo via Instagram
Image by @glosstattoobeauty402 via Instagram
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Image by @carbonink_tallahassee via Instagram
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Image by @ink_byshay via Instagram
For these fishing tattoos, it's about choosing a symbol or scene that you associate with your loved one. You can draw inspiration from one of your favorite fishing memories.
It's impossible to think of fishing tattoos without considering the actual fish themselves.
If you are like most people, you probably have one species that you prefer to focus on. Or, maybe certain fish offer more competition to keep things interesting.
Fish tattoos can also be quite meaningful. They can be used to symbolize certain moments. Or, they could be a depiction of your biggest or greatest catch to date.
Trout are some of the most popular fish to catch so it only makes sense for you to get a fish tattoo featuring this species. Here are some ideas for fish tattoos to consider:
Image by @fishingtattoos via Instagram
Image by @fishingtattoos via Instagram
Image by @brian.garber via Instagram
Image by @ajmcguiretattoos via Instagram
Image by @cameronstraubtattoos via Instagram
Image by @fishingtattoos via Instagram
Image by @fishingtattoos via Instagram
Of course, bass fishing is right up there with trout. Thus, this fish tattoo is a good to check out too:
Image by @rob_farnham_tattoo via Instagram
Image by @edouard.duong via Instagram
If you prefer a carp fishing tattoo, fear not as there is inspiration for this kind of fish tattoo too:
Image by @seanlewistattooer via Instagram
Image by @marc_studio_ink via Instagram
Image by @sequoiarosetattoo via Instagram
This fish tattoo features a pair of bowfin fish on each calf!
Image by @coreyhardisontattoos via Instagram
If you're the type that likes to fish for more unusual species, this pumpkinseed fish tattoo will be right up your alley:
Image by @fishingtattoos via Instagram
This is an interesting take on the traditional fisherman tattoo. If you're someone who can see themselves fishing in the afterlife, this makes you a die-hard fisherman...quite literally.
Considering, these have to be the best fishing tattoos you can get:
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Image by @ajmcguiretattoos via Instagram
Speaking of an unusual fisherman tattoo, this is a bold and interesting fishing tattoo idea. After all, if the grim reaper could take a vacation, surely he would go fishing.
These fishing tattoos should serve as great inspiration:
Image by @kirakiraink via Instagram
Image by @s.q.u.i.d.vicious via Instagram
People assume that women, in general, don't like fishing, but here is a fishing tattoo that proves otherwise. Here is a couple who found love while fishing - if you have a similar story to tell, you now can do it with this great idea:
Image by @monkeyshynestudio via Instagram
If you're looking for other styles of fishing tattoos, these are the tattoo designs for you. Here, the landscape design sits inside the thin outline of the fish. It is beautiful and a great way to remind you of some of your favorite fishing spots.
Image by @ajmcguiretattoos via Instagram
Image by @fishingtattoos via Instagram
Image by @fishingtattoos via Instagram
If you're tired of the same old fishing tattoo, you are not alone! A lot of people have gone in unusual directions with their fishing tattoos.
The good news is that there are plenty of fishing tattoo designs for you to choose from.
Here are the best fishing tattoos you can consider if you are looking for different take on this trend:
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Image by @byyclouds via Instagram
Image by @anthonyniceleytattoos via Instagram
Image by @antonfahlandertattoo via Instagram
Image by @artt.tattoos via Instagram
Image by @mwmartstudios via Instagram
Image by @fishingtattoos via Instagram
Did you know that there were this many fishing tattoos to choose from? Well, you do now!
The great thing about it is that they run the gamut from realistic and artistic all the way to sentimental. It doesn't matter what fishing means to you - you can describe your emotions and experiences in the form of a beautiful tattoo.
