I remember when I fished learned that fishing was going to be in the game, I thought that it would be cool way to increase immersion and give players something to do besides kill things. However, the implementation of fishing has been rather boring. You find a specific spot to fish in, select the correct bait for the water type (which is often vague), and press E when you get a bite. To me, this is about as exciting as harvesting any other material, only that it is slightly more involved. Currently, players only have two incentives for fishing: finding perfect roe and getting the rare pink dye as a reward for getting every rare fish in every zone.

I would really like to see fishing become something more enjoyable and immersive. Here are some suggestions I have that could help:

1. Remove the fishing holes and show the fish in full, 3D models like with deer and other game. And each fish would have its own unique model, so that you know what you're fishing for before you catch it. Wet gunny sacks and possibly other items could also be seen under the water.

2. When a fish bites the lure, make it fight to get away. Players would have to reel the fish in, without putting too much pressure on the line. Additionally, once the lure is cast, the player should be locked down so that the movement keys can be used for the lure instead. By default, the Esc and Alt keys would allow the player to cancel.

3. Limit enemy placements near the water. Fishing should be a relaxing experience, not having to watch your back for when that sabercat respawns. Of course, if you choose to fish in PvP zones, you'll still be putting yourself at risk. However, fishing in Cyrodiil could be made more peaceful if attacking players who are fishing was turned into a war crime, which would increase the offending player's bounty.

4. Give fish weight. In real life, as well as in other games, the type of fish you catch is not all that matters, but the weight of the fish is also highly relevant. Bigger fish would be worth more gold when sold, and records would be kept on a character's biggest catches. Which leads to...

5. Fishing competitions. In each zone, add a fisherman's shack where players can go to compete to catch the biggest fish. Players who catch the biggest fish win a prize. Additionally, the player's collection of rare fish could be displayed on a wall inside the shack.

6. Add additional rewards for fishing. For instance, a new dye could be tied to an achievement for winning a fishing competition. When you catch a fish, a player could have the option of turning it into a trophy, to hold it over your head when selected, or mounted in your home when player housing is added. And since spellcrafting is currently being worked on, the waterwalk spell effect could be learned from a rare reward won from a fishing competition.

What do you guys think? Got any ideas of your own to add?