How to Play Go Fish

Michelle Tingson on
AGE 4+
2-6
5-15 MIN

Go Fish is a simple, fun card game that's perfect for kids and families to play together. It's a great way to practice memory skills and learn about patience while having lots of laughs along the way!

playing Go Fish card game

Rules for the Card Game Go Fish – Easy Guide for 2 Players or More

Wondering how to play Go Fish with 2 players or need a refresher on the rules for the card game Go Fish? You’re in the right place. This beginner-friendly guide breaks down the official rules, variations for different player counts, and helpful FAQs—so you can dive right in with family or friends.

What Is Go Fish and Why It's Still a Favorite

Go Fish is a simple card game where players collect sets of four cards, known as "books." It's a go-to for ages 4 and up, and works great with 2 to 6 players. It’s perfect for quick rounds of fun and learning basic game mechanics like matching, turn-taking, and memory.

What You’ll Need to Play

  • Standard 52-Card Deck
  • 2–6 Players (we explain how to play with 2 below)
  • Flat Surface or Table

Optional: You can use picture decks for young kids, but a regular deck works fine.

How to Play Go Fish (Official Rules)

Setup

  1. Shuffle the deck thoroughly.
  2. For 2–3 players, deal 7 cards each.
    For 4–6 players, deal 5 cards each.
  3. Place the rest of the cards in a face-down draw pile (the “pool”).

Turn Structure

  1. On your turn, ask any player for a specific card rank (e.g., “Do you have any 6s?”).
  2. Important: You must hold at least one card of the rank you're asking for.
  3. If the player has the card(s), they must give all of that rank to you—you get another turn.
  4. If not, they say “Go Fish!” and you draw from the pile.
  5. If you draw the rank you asked for, show it and continue. Otherwise, your turn ends.

Making Books

When you collect all 4 cards of the same rank, place them face-up as a “book.” The player with the most books at the end wins.

Ending the Game

The game ends when all 13 books are made or no cards are left in the draw pile and no one can make a move.

How to Play Go Fish With 2 Players (Easy Version)

Playing Go Fish with 2 people is just as fun. Here's the simplified version:

  • Deal 7 cards to each player.
  • Take turns asking your opponent for a specific rank.
  • All other rules are the same—if they have it, you get all cards of that rank and continue. If not, you "Go Fish."
  • Games go faster, so you may want to play best out of 3!

Go Fish Rules When You Run Out of Cards

If a player runs out of cards but there are still cards in the draw pile, they draw a new card on their next turn and continue playing.

If the draw pile is empty, that player simply skips their turn until the game ends.

Go Fish Age Range

The recommended age range for Go Fish is 4 and up. Even preschoolers can catch on quickly with a little help. Picture decks (with animals or colors) are great for early learners.

Do You Always Keep 7 Cards in Go Fish?

No. Players only start with 7 cards (or 5, if there are more than 4 players). As you play, your hand size changes based on giving and receiving cards. You may have more or fewer than 7 during the game—and it’s normal!

Quick Tips to Win at Go Fish

  • Remember who asks for what—it gives clues about their hand.
  • Hold onto duplicates to protect future books.
  • Watch the draw pile—timing matters near the end.

Go Fish Variations & House Rules

  • 2 Decks for 6+ players: Speeds things up.
  • Silent Mode: Use gestures instead of talking (great for road trips).
  • Kids Edition: Use decks with animals, sea creatures, or colors for easier matching.

Frequently Asked Questions (Go Fish Rules)

Q: Can you lie in Go Fish?
A: No, bluffing isn’t allowed. If you have the rank asked for, you must give all of those cards.

Q: Can a 5-year-old play Go Fish?
A: Yes! Kids as young as 4 or 5 can learn Go Fish, especially with picture decks.

Q: What happens if no one can make a move?
A: Once the draw pile is gone and no one has valid plays, the game ends and players count their books.

Q: What if I ask for a card I don’t have?
A: That’s against the rules. You must already have one of the cards you’re asking for.

Video: How to Play Go Fish (Visual Guide)

Final Thoughts

The rules for the card game Go Fish are simple, fun, and perfect for all ages. Whether you're learning how to play Go Fish with 2 players or looking to refresh your memory on Go Fish rules when you run out of cards, this game is always a crowd-pleaser. Now grab a deck and let the fishing begin!

Want more classic card game tutorials? Check out all our guides here.

Tags: Instruction