Concerns fishing tricks and strategy for Wild World, City Folk, and New Leaf.

River current
Be aware of upstream and downstream--the direction the river flows--to adjust for timing and distance when casting out. There is slightly more turbulence near waterfalls and rapids (where river meets ocean).

Bridge fishing
When a fish passes beneath a bridge, quickly cast your lure on the opposite side. The fish may come in contact while the lure is out of view, so turn your volume up to be ready for the splash cue.

Fish IQ
Contrary to popular belief, larger fish are generally smarter than smaller fish. This means that large fish are more wary of bait, while small fish eagerly swim toward anything sight. This is why the largest fish, finned fish, often shy away on their first look at the lure.

Reel sensitivity
The tiny fish like clownfish, angelfish, and frogs allow the most time to pull up on your rod. The finned fish like sharks give a very small opportunity to pull up.

Foam
Thanks to the waves and ripples of water (rain even perhaps), sometimes it is difficult to see the splash signalling a hook. If on Wild World or New Leaf, slightly tilt the top screen toward yourself to increase contrast and factor out some backlight.

Mosquitos
Somewhat obvious but be on the lookout for them in the summer months, as they can bite you while fishing and cause you to lose your fish. Try to get one to bite you before you cast, or flee.

Bite count
On average a fish will bite 3-4 times before getting caught. The rarer ones have a higher tendency to come quickly (1-2 bites) or bide their time (6-7 bites).

Spawns
Freshwater fish (river) spawn from the sides of the river. Salt-water fish (ocean) spawn from either the outer edge of the ocean or can simply surface at a point a decent distance from the player.

See more
Expand your view of the waters by casting out perpendicular to the land.