Interested in Fish Table Games? Here’s What You Should Know

Checking off lists, shooting targets, and getting things done are some activities many people don’t always stay consistent with. There’s something about shooting off-targets that keeps the momentum going, you know? These days, you can find people enjoying certain hobbies and forms of entertainment.

Today, we want to give credit to fish table games or fish game gambling – the classic target shooting casino game no one gives enough credit to. Read on as we discuss its humble beginnings, how it works, the best fish table games online, and which social casinos you can find them in.

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Brief History

Anyone who doesn’t live under a rock would know that this type of game has been around for a while now. While the date of invention might be a bit murky, it became a sensation in arcade games and Asian casinos in the 80s and 90s. In the mid-90s, in particular, when online casinos were seen as rising stars in the gaming industry, , more variations of fish table games came to be.

Fast forward to 2024 and we have highly adaptive, exhilarating, and digitally enhanced fish table games for everyone to enjoy. Read on as we explore the most popular fish table games online, understand where you can safely play online fish table games, how the game works, and why online fish tables at social casinos are a better alternative for responsible gameplay.

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Sweepstakes Groups Urge Legislators in California to Re-Think Proposed Ban on Sweeps Casinos
June 26th, 20255 mins

Sweepstakes Groups Urge Legislators in California to Re-Think Proposed Ban on Sweeps Casinos

Sweepstakes advocacy groups like the Social and Promotional Games Association and the Social Gaming Leadership Alliance have urged lawmakers in California to reconsider the proposed ban on sweepstakes casinos in the state. Under the proposed bill, AB 831, sweeps operators will no longer be able to operate in California, and the groups say that the legislation could push players to black market platforms that offer no consumer protections instead.

A legislative effort to ban sweepstakes casinos in California is drawing sharp opposition from major industry groups, who argue the bill threatens legal digital games and favors powerful interests at the expense of consumers.

Assembly Bill 831, introduced by Assemblymember Avelino Valencia, seeks to outlaw sweepstakes casino operators in the Golden State. The move has triggered a coordinated pushback from both the Social and Promotional Games Association and the Social Gaming Leadership Alliance, who accuse lawmakers of rushing the legislation through without proper input or analysis.

Industry calls legislation unfair and misguided

Sweepstakes operator VGW, known for running Chumba Casino and other platforms, helped form the SGLA to represent the interests of the social gaming industry across the United States. The group is led by former Congressman Jeff Duncan, who criticized the bill for lacking transparency and threatening consumer choice.

"Many Californians play online games, but this rushed proposal, which subverts proper process, would abruptly cut them off from popular, free-to-play entertainment they love," said Duncan in a statement. "It was written by those involved in the gambling industry and introduced without providing the online social gaming industry any meaningful opportunity to engage."

Duncan added that AB 831 could have broader implications for mainstream promotional sweepstakes, such as Reader's Digest contests as well as McDonald's Monopoly games. He also warned that banning legal sweepstakes platforms could inadvertently push consumers toward unregulated offshore alternatives, which offer no consumer protections.

SPGA criticizes 'backroom ban'

The Social and Promotional Games Association echoed SGLA's concerns, denouncing AB 831 as a 'backroom ban' inserted into unrelated legislation involving tribal gambling. A spokesperson for the SPGA said the move bypassed normal legislative scrutiny, including public debate and expert input.

"This isn't how sound policy gets made," the SPGA said. "A last-minute effort to outlaw legal digital games, without public debate, expert input, or economic analysis, sends a chilling message to entrepreneurs, innovators, and investors across the state." The group also emphasized the bill's potential impact on large corporations that run promotional sweepstakes programs, including Microsoft, Marriott, and Starbucks.

"California voters didn't sign on for backroom deals dictated by powerful political interests," the SPGA added. "With the state facing wildfires, a housing crisis, and a full federal assault on Californians' rights, it's astounding that any lawmaker would make banning mobile games a priority."

Tribal governments support ban

Despite opposition from the social gaming sector, the proposed ban enjoys strong support from tribal governments and organizations. The California Nations Indian Gaming Association has endorsed AB 831, citing the need to protect the state's voter-approved framework that gives tribes exclusive rights to operate gambling operations. "We support this legislation that will close dangerous loopholes and strengthen the integrity of California's gaming system," said Johnny Hernandez, Jr., vice chairperson of the Yuhaaviatam Tribal Council of San Manuel.

The San Manuel Band of Mission Indians is one of the most prominent tribal gaming operators in California, contributing to the $25 billion tribal gambling industry that supports over 112,000 jobs in the state. "Together, Tribal governments and the State of California will continue to address and take decisive action against illegal internet gaming in all its forms," Hernandez added.

Possible conflict of interest?

The SPGA pointed out that San Manuel's Yaamava Resort & Casino currently operates its own social online casino, raising questions about potential conflicts of interest. Critics of AB 831 argue that such tribal operators want to eliminate perceived competition in the social gaming space while maintaining their own digital footholds.

The California legislative session runs through September 12, though bills can carry over to the 2026 session. Both sides are expected to ramp up lobbying efforts in the coming months as the debate over the future of sweepstakes casinos in California intensifies.

New York One Step Away from Banning Sweepstakes Casinos
June 19th, 20255 mins

New York One Step Away from Banning Sweepstakes Casinos

The state of New York is on the verge of officially approving Senator Joseph Addabbo's proposed bill banning sweepstakes casinos from operating. The bill now awaits the signature of the governor, and it will make New York the fourth state to ban online sweeps casinos after Montana, Nevada, and more recently, Connecticut.

New York is now just one signature away from becoming the fourth state this year to outlaw online sweepstakes casinos, following the unanimous passage of a sweeping bill in the state Assembly on Tuesday. The legislation, championed by Senator Joseph Addabbo, aims to ban dual-currency sweepstakes models frequently used by online casino-style platforms operating in legal gray zones.

A smooth path through the legislature

The bill, which had already advanced through the Senate with little opposition, was swapped in place of an identical version introduced in the Assembly by Assemblymember Carrie Woerner. Both bills sought to close loopholes that allow sweepstakes-based platforms to mimic real-money online gambling without state regulation or taxation.

Addabbo's version had easily passed the Racing, Gaming, and Wagering Committee in the Senate, which he chairs, before moving to a full floor vote last week. In the Assembly, Woerner's version passed through several committees unchallenged before being replaced by Addabbo's for final passage. Assemblymember Jarrett Gandolfo was the only legislator to ask for clarification, focusing on the bill's targeting of dual-currency systems - one of the key features of sweepstakes casinos that allow users to exchange "sweeps coins" for cash prizes. Woerner assured lawmakers that common customer loyalty programs, like those from Starbucks or airlines, would not fall under the ban, explaining that those programs do not convert points into cash.

Industry backlash grows

Not everyone is pleased with the bill's trajectory. Industry groups such as the Social and Promotional Games Association and the Social Games Leadership Alliance swiftly voiced their opposition, warning that the legislation could have broader implications than intended.

"This bill doesn't just target sweepstakes," said an SPGA spokesperson. "It sends a chilling message to anyone looking to invest in the next generation of gaming innovation. Nearly every form of online gaming we know today, including companies like FanDuel, began as pre-regulated concepts. This legislation criminalizes that innovation cycle."

Jeff Duncan, Executive Director of the SGLA, echoed similar concerns. Legislators raised legitimate questions about enforcement, federal legal conflicts, and unintended effects on mainstream promotions. But those questions remain unanswered because the bill was rushed through, Duncan noted. "By blurring the line between lawful sweepstakes promotions and illegal gambling, this legislation threatens a vibrant digital-entertainment sector while offering players no safer alternatives."

Legal pressure and national trends

New York’s legislative action follows mounting legal scrutiny of sweepstakes gaming models across the country. On June 6, New York Attorney General Letitia James revealed her office had issued cease-and-desist letters to 26 operators for offering 'sweeps coins' to state residents. That legal development gave lawmakers additional justification for accelerating the bill's passage.

Senator Addabbo also cited Connecticut's aggressive enforcement against sweepstakes operators, specifically the Department of Consumer Protection's decision to suspend High5Games and file over 1,000 criminal counts related to illegal gaming activity. Similar bans have already been signed into law this year in Montana, Nevada, and Connecticut.

Major operators began withdrawing early

Sensing the inevitable, some operators have already begun scaling back operations in New York. VGW, arguably the world's biggest sweepstakes gaming company and operator of Luckyland Slots, Chumba Casino, and Global Poker, reportedly initiated plans last month to remove its sweepstakes offerings from the New York market. That exit is expected to roll out gradually throughout the summer.

Despite New York's forward momentum, proponents of sweepstakes gaming have notched a few recent wins elsewhere. In Louisiana, Governor Jeff Landry vetoed a bill that had passed unanimously in both legislative chambers. A similar effort in Maryland failed to move beyond committee stage.

With the Assembly vote complete, the bill now awaits Governor Kathy Hochul’s signature. If signed into law, New York will join a growing list of states pushing back against online sweepstakes gaming - a trend that shows no sign of slowing.

Connecticut Cracks Down on Sweepstakes Casinos with Statewide Ban
June 17th, 20255 mins

Connecticut Cracks Down on Sweepstakes Casinos with Statewide Ban

Connecticut has now officially become the second state after Montana to ban sweepstakes operators after Governor Lamont signed the online sweepstakes casino ban, SB 1235, into law. The ban on sweepstakes operators will take effect on the 1st of October and is actually part of some broader changes in regulations and laws that are set to take place across the state.

Connecticut has officially become the second state in 2025 to enact a ban on online sweepstakes casinos, as Governor Ned Lamont signed Senate Bill 1235 into law last Wednesday. The legislation, which includes a broad range of changes to gaming laws and regulations, will go into effect on the 1st of October.

The measure aims to tighten oversight of gambling operations in the state by outlawing simulated gambling devices not tied to legitimate commercial activity. Connecticut joins Montana, which enacted a similar ban in May, in pushing back against the rise of online sweeps casinos that operate outside the state's licensed gaming ecosystem.

A unanimous legislative push

SB 1235 passed the Connecticut House with unanimous approval on June 3 before moving to the Senate for concurrence and eventually landing on Lamont's desk. The bill gained swift support amid growing concerns about consumer protection and the unregulated nature of sweepstakes-based gaming.

While lawmakers emphasized player safeguards, the bill's quick passage has drawn criticism from some in the emerging sweeps gaming sector. The Social Gaming Leadership Alliance, a newly-formed industry advocacy group, expressed disappointment in a statement following the House vote.

"This bill was hastily passed based on incomplete information with little attempt to engage with legitimate industry operators that prioritize player protections," said Jeff Duncan, the SGLA's Executive Director. "The result is a win for the black market, and other groups with vested interests that campaigned for this bill with falsehoods and misinformation. It is a loss for innovation, competition, free choice and potential benefits for the State of Connecticut."

What the bill bans - and what it doesn't

The new law specifically prohibits sweepstakes or promotional drawings that either do not involve the bona fide sale of goods or services, use simulated gambling devices, or facilitate participation in real or simulated sports wagering or online casino gaming without appropriate licensure under state law.

Critics of the bill raised concerns it could unintentionally affect retail sweepstakes programs offered by grocery chains or major retailers. Legislators, however, included language to address that concern. Sweepstakes operated by retail grocery chains - defined as those with five or more locations where grocery sales are the primary business - remain legal as long as prizes cannot be redeemed for cash and only serve as discounts on purchases.

A booming gaming economy

Connecticut is one of only seven US states with regulated online casino gaming. According to the state's latest revenue reports, the first four months of 2025 have already brought in $34.4 million in state tax revenue from online casinos, marking a 31.6% increase over the same period in 2024. Legal sports betting also contributed $9.4 million in tax revenue, up nearly $1 million year-over-year.

State officials maintain that the sweeps casino ban is meant to protect this growing revenue stream by ensuring only licensed and regulated platforms are permitted to operate in Connecticut.

New sports betting rules for UConn fans

The new legislation also includes provisions for sports bettors in Connecticut, particularly those who follow in-state college teams. Under SB 1235, residents will now be allowed to place bets on tournaments involving Connecticut schools - including powerhouse programs like UConn - provided the tournament features at least four teams and wagers are placed on the tournament as a whole, not individual games.

This change opens the door for UConn basketball fans to back their teams in postseason play via operators like DraftKings, FanDuel, and Fanatics. Though the UConn men's bid for a historic NCAA 'three-peat' ended early in 2025, the women's team will begin the 2025-26 season as reigning national champions under legendary coach Geno Auriemma.

While the ban on online sweepstakes casinos has drawn a mixed response, Connecticut lawmakers view it as a necessary step to safeguard consumers and maintain the integrity of the state's regulated gaming market. Whether other states follow suit - as New York inches closer with its own legislation - remains to be seen, but for now, Connecticut has drawn a firm line.

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Understanding the Legality of Fish Table Gambling in 2024

As much as we want to tell you that fish tables can be found anywhere online and be played from wherever you are, we hesitate to do so as the reality is a bit different What we can do, however, is give you a little clarity on where the lines blur and how you can access fish table games on alternative platforms.

So, the first question you might be asking is ‘Is it legal to play fish table games online anywhere in the US?’ Well, the safe answer is no, mainly because each state has its own rules when it comes to online gambling. Since a fish table game online is more of a game of skill, the general legality allowing operations is grayer than most.

 

Playing Fish Table Games in Social Casinos

So where do fish table games stand nowadays? This means some games can exist without traditional gambling licenses in a few regions. Meanwhile, those fish table games operating in larger establishments may be classified as gambling activity, which means they could require proper licensing for real money wagers.

However, it’s important to recognize that most US states deem anything with real money wagers to be illegal without proper licensure. While there are limited exceptions in certain regions or establishments, it’s always better to access fish table games in licensed social casinos online.

Playing fish table games in social casinos is a popular and safe option for many iGaming enthusiasts. All you have to do is sign up for a licensed, trusted, and reliable social casino online and find the best fish table games for you. But before signing up, let’s break down how fish table games work.

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How Fish Table Games Work

The mechanics of a fish table online game are simple, and it’s all about shooting and aiming at moving targets, after all. You have to have a unique combo of skill and luck to maximize this type of game. These are popular in casinos and gaming establishments where you’ll find a physical table with a ball and a cue stick. Highly digitized computers calculate the outcome of each round.

In virtual casinos, you’ll have a mounted gun to aim at colorful fish and other sea creatures swimming all over the screen. Each type of fish has an equivalent point value that players successfully shoot down to gain rewards or in-game currency.

 

Fish Table Games vs. Fish-themed Slot Games

Some first-time players in the gambling scene might find themselves confused with all the fish games on their screen. But, one of the first things you should know is that fish table games and fish-themed slot games aren’t the same thing.

The main objective of a fish table game online is to score as many points by shooting and catching fish; it’s a target-and-aim type of game anyone who loves arcade games will enjoy. Once you’ve accumulated all the points you can, you can use them to win in-game rewards or even exchange them for virtual currency in social casinos.

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Fish-themed slot games, on the other hand, are considered to be classic slot games. Many slot games have underwater and fish-themed games with symbols, reels, and pay lines you can nab with a simple ‘Spin’ button. This type of social casino or online casino game is purely based on chance with a house edge you need to compete against. All you have to do is match symbols and win real money prizes or virtual currencies to make the most of the game.

Best Online Fish Table Games in Social Casinos You Can Play On

Now that you know the basics and mechanics of playing fish table games, you can go on taking our advice and checking out the best online fish table games at your disposal (provided you live in the US and love gaming, of course) and exploring your shoot-to-aim skills with a few underwater creatures and here and there.

 

Golden Dragon

If you’ve seen the Little Mermaid and love anything under the sea, then the Golden Dragon fish table game might be something you’d enjoy. This multiplayer shooting game challenges you to chase the fascinating golden dragon that swims across your screen, for the promise of a 300x payout once you catch the target.

Another clever feature of this fish table game is the Crystal Win — a win of this kind wipes out every other crystal on the screen. You’re also going to love the Freeze Bomb — a game-changer that, once hit, freezes every fish on the screen, giving you superb target and visibility. This seamless and immersive arcade-like game is a thrilling one you’ll have to try out for yourself!

 

King Octopus

King Octopus is another exhilarating underwater table game worth exploring. With vibrant colors, superb graphics, and a pumped-up musical sequence, this game is one for the senses. The objective of the game is simple: use a cannon to aim at fish and sea creatures until you accumulate player points for a chance to win up to 36x your initial stake. The ever-moving aquatic life, treasure boxes, and pirates all contribute to the game's overall unique atmosphere.

 

KA Fish Hunter

An excellent fish table game developed by KA Gaming, getting an underwater treat is all the rage with this game. It features 200x multipliers, blue whales, and gold sharks that trigger a freeze bomb to help you with game visibility and eventually score some wins in the depths of underwater gaming. This fish table game offers a high RTP at 96% at medium volatility that offers a superb payout in real money casinos.

 

Mermaid Hunter

As the game’s name suggests, this game is all about finding mermaids and all sorts of marine life all over your screen. This interactive game is a crowd favorite in many social casinos with features enabling players to aim, lock, and auto-shoot until they gain all the wins possible. Plus, if you like a challenge, this fish table game has multiple tiers for a more exciting yet challenging game at your disposal.

 

Emily’s Treasure

If you've got an impressive aim, then Emily’s Treasure is a fish table game you’ll love. With captivating underwater elements like various fish and sea creatures, the fierce fire dragon and energy shot are some features you’ll want to target to get more rewards and bonuses.

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Where Can You Play Fish Table Games?

When you master the game of fish table online, real money might not be within your reach - but virtual money is! There are a bunch of social casinos legal in the US that you can explore this type of online arcade game on. Here are a few we think are worth mentioning:

 

High 5 Casino

Founded in 2020 and dubbed “Social Gaming Operator of the Year” by EGR North America Awards in 2023, High 5 Casino has been a crowd favorite among iGaming enthusiasts for years. It’s also a great virtual platform that hosts multiple fish tables and ocean adventure games you can take advantage of, and it boasts over 800 games with exceptional bonuses and promotions up for grabs.

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Pulsz Casino

Launched in 2017, this real money casino boasts over 500 games available to players in Idaho, Nevada, and Washington. If you like VIP programs to take part in when playing, Pulsz has a six-tier one you won’t want to miss out on while making the most out of your favorite fish table games.

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Stake.us

When it comes to the leading social casinos offering online fish table games, Stake.us is a top choice. With many players leaving positive reviews on their fish table games, there’s no doubt trying their selection of games is a must to see which one best suits your game style.

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Mobile Gaming and Fish Tables Online

While big screens are always great for gaming, fish table games are also great for mobile gaming. With more younger users opting to play from their phones, accessing fish table games for Android and iOS is very much possible. Several social casinos and even real cash casinos have supplementary apps for easy, on-the-go gameplay. But playing on their website is just as immersive since most online casinos are mobile-optimized.

Tips and Tricks: How to Win in Online Fish Table Games

We’re aware of how straightforward fish table games typically are: you just have to aim, shoot, and win points. But there’s still some strategy and timing involved if you want to maximize your gameplay and heighten your chances of winning. Here are some tips and tricks to try out on your next round at a fish table game:

 

Avoid targeting the largest fish in the sea first

Bigger might not always be better in these parts. Catching all the fish and other underwater creatures might be the ultimate goal, but chances are you’ll miss out on a few here and there. It might be easy to shoot at the biggest fish you can see first, but the thing about fish table games is that the smaller the fish, the higher their points usually are. So try to aim at the smaller fish first before getting the big ones out of the way.

 

Make use of rapid-fire in swarms

Now, once all the fish start to move at the same time and your screen looks like a fish plague all of a sudden, then it’s time to use the big guns. Try aiming and then firing multiple rounds simultaneously to make the most of your hit percentage. This way, you’re more likely to play your odds upwards.; you can’t go wrong with that now, can you?

 

Attempt using different guns

Some fish table games have multiple gun options the higher the tier you’re in. Be strategic and use other cannons and ammunition to take down larger prey. This will not only challenge your gameplay to keep playing to get up the tiers, but it’ll also give you more opportunity to work on your strategy.

 

Stay away from aim and lock features

What many fish table game players aren’t aware of is the aim and lock feature that most games have. It’ll simply do the aiming for you automatically and lock your target for smoother gameplay. These features are fantastic for novices or for when you want to take a break, but they're not very efficient and will almost always cost you real money. You will need to put in the work yourself if you want to be efficient and secure strong wins in the long term.

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Fish for Wins instead of Compliments

Now that we’ve covered everything you need to know about fish table games and taken a deep dive into this exciting underwater world, remember: to aim small, shoot big, and keep those rapid-fire skills sharp! With some strategy and a bit of luck, you'll be racking up points and enjoying your deep-sea adventure in no time. Just steer clear of those aim-and-lock features if you're aiming for those big wins!

Experience Social Casinos!

Immerse yourself in the world of social casinos with our expert reviews. Discover a vibrant community of players and enjoy a wide variety of social casino games. From slots to table games, explore the best social casino sites and join the fun!

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FAQ

Are there fish tables near me where I can play?

Traditional fish tables are usually available at arcades, gambling institutions, and some Asian casinos, though their availability can vary according to your area. On the other hand, many online social casinos have a selection of fish table games that you can play from the comfort of your home if you're searching for a more practical choice. Just be sure to ascertain whether internet gambling is permitted in your location before partaking!

What makes fish table games different from other types of casino games?

Fish table games differ from other casino games in that they don't just rely on reels or cards instead, players shoot and aim at moving targets, which are usually underwater creatures. The gameplay offers a dynamic and involved experience, frequently requiring a combination of skill and luck.

Are fish table games purely based on luck, or is there a skill element involved?

Fish table games involve a certain amount of luck, but skill is also necessary to maximize your winnings. To gain greater scores and rewards, players must prioritize targets, aim strategically, and use rapid-fire skills.

Can I play fish table games on my mobile device, and are there specific apps available for them?

Yes, a variety of fish table games are accessible on mobile devices through specific apps that certain online casinos offer. Whether they favor the iOS or Android platforms, players may take advantage of the immersive underwater action while on the road.

Author
Author: Joey Dacillo
Updated: 1 year ago
Author: Joey Dacillo
Writer | Content Strategist
Updated: 1 year ago

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