The number of fish caught is not necessarily the key to success for the player; each fish, boot, or starfish also represents a certain number of points. First, the players set up the pond and release the inhabitants. The first angler then casts their line into the pond and tries to catch a fish. Players are not allowed to look into the pond. If an angler makes a catch, they get to try again. If their line is empty or the fish falls back into the pond, it's the next player's turn. The player with the most points wins the game at the end.