Fishin' Reels (Pragmatic Play) Slot Review

Fishin’ Reels: Slot Overview 

Fishin’ Reels by Pragmatic Play is a vibrant and engaging online slot that brings an underwater adventure to life. Released in March 2021, this high-volatility slot features a 5×3 reel layout with 10 fixed paylines and an RTP ranging between 94.50% and 96.50%, depending on the game mode or operator settings. As a modern reinterpretation of the classic “fish-themed” slot genre, Fishin’ Reels takes inspiration from the popular Fishin’ Frenzy series while adding its unique elements to the mix. With an array of bright symbols, two exciting bonus modes, and a max win of 1,200x your bet, Fishin’ Reels is a slot designed for casual players who enjoy light-hearted themes and modest payouts. 

Pragmatic Play has combined playful aesthetics with straightforward gameplay mechanics, ensuring players can dive in without feeling overwhelmed. With the option to choose between two distinct bonus features—‘Reel It In’ or ‘The Big Catch’—Fishin’ Reels offers flexibility and replayability for those looking for variety. While the max win is relatively low compared to other Pragmatic Play slots, the cheerful presentation and entertaining features make it an appealing choice for fans of aquatic themes.

Design and Graphics 

Fishin’ Reels stands out visually with its colorful underwater theme. The game is set against a backdrop of clear blue waters, with fish swimming lazily in the background and sunlight streaming down to the ocean floor. The reels are transparent, giving players a clear view of the vibrant underwater world beneath. Shadows of fish swimming by add a dynamic element, creating the illusion of being submerged in a tropical sea. The symbols on the reels are a mix of low-paying and high-paying icons. Low-paying symbols include the traditional card suits (diamonds, clubs, hearts, and spades), which are designed to resemble undersea objects. High-paying symbols are represented by marine-themed items such as starfish, flippers, and snorkeling gear, as well as the elusive cheeky fish. A fisherman appears during bonus rounds, reeling in his catch with humor and charm. While the graphics aren’t cutting-edge, they are polished, colorful, and well-suited to the theme. 

The overall design captures the joy of fishing trips, with a cheerful aesthetic that contrasts sharply with the more serious tone of some slots. While it doesn’t push the boundaries of innovation, the visuals successfully deliver a lively and light-hearted experience.

Gameplay Mechanics 

Fishin’ Reels is played on a 5×3 grid with 10 fixed paylines. Wins are achieved by landing three or more matching symbols on a payline, starting from the leftmost reel. The hit frequency is relatively high, offering frequent smaller payouts to keep players engaged. 

The game’s wild symbol is a blue fish, which substitutes for all other symbols except the bonus symbols. It can appear on reels 2, 3, and 4, helping players complete winning combinations. 

In the base game, players will encounter a range of payouts depending on the symbols. The highest-paying regular symbol is the cheeky fish, which pays up to 100x the bet for five-of-a-kind. The gameplay is straightforward, making it ideal for beginners or those looking for a more relaxed slot experience.

Sound and Music 

The audio design of Fishin’ Reels complements its cheerful theme. The background music is a light and playful tune, evoking images of a sunny day by the water. While the music can become repetitive over extended play sessions, it fits the slot’s casual tone. Sound effects like splashes and the reeling in of fish add an extra layer of immersion, especially during the bonus rounds. 

One notable feature is the change in audio during free spins. When the fisherman reels in a catch, the game triggers lively sound effects, making these moments feel rewarding. While the soundtrack doesn’t break new ground, it aligns well with the game’s visual and thematic elements.

Bonus Features 

Fishin’ Reels is packed with engaging features, with its two main bonuses being the standout attractions. Reel It In This bonus mode is activated when players choose the “Reel It In” option after landing three or more free spins scatter symbols. During this mode, fish symbols with attached cash values (0.5x to 250x the bet) can land on the reels. If the fisherman symbol appears on reel 5, he reels in the cash values for players to collect. This mode is ideal for those seeking frequent wins, as cash values appear more often than in the alternative mode.

The Big Catch For players looking for higher risk and potential rewards, “The Big Catch” bonus offers a different gameplay dynamic. During this mode, the Big Catch symbol randomly overlays on top of other symbols. Collecting three of these triggers a fishing mini-game, where players select from eight fish with cash prizes ranging from 0.2x to 250x the total bet. Additional spins can also be awarded, adding to the excitement. The Big Catch mode offers the potential for larger wins, though payouts are less frequent than in Reel It In.

Free Spins The free spins round is triggered by landing three or more scatter symbols. Players receive 10, 12, or 15 free spins depending on the number of scatters. They can then choose between the Reel It In or The Big Catch mode, adding an element of strategy to the game.

Betting Options and Payouts 

Fishin’ Reels accommodates a wide range of players with its flexible betting options. The minimum bet starts at €0.10, while high rollers can wager up to €100 per spin. The RTP ranges from 94.50% to 96.50%, depending on the operator and settings, ensuring decent returns over extended play sessions. 

The maximum win of 1,200x the bet is relatively modest compared to other Pragmatic Play slots, which may deter players seeking massive payouts. However, the frequent smaller wins help maintain player engagement. The two bonus modes provide added value, offering opportunities to land significant prizes during free spins. 

While Fishin’ Reels doesn’t boast the highest payouts, its balance of frequent wins and entertaining features makes it a suitable choice for casual players and fans of fishing-themed slots. 

Conclusion 

Fishin’ Reels by Pragmatic Play is a charming addition to the developer’s portfolio, offering a delightful underwater adventure with straightforward mechanics and entertaining bonus features. While it doesn’t break new ground in terms of innovation or payouts, its cheerful design, vibrant graphics, and engaging gameplay make it a solid choice for casual players. 

The two bonus modes—Reel It In and The Big Catch—add depth and variety, allowing players to tailor their experience to their preferred play style. The game’s high volatility may not appeal to everyone, but the frequent smaller payouts help balance the risk. 

Overall, Fishin’ Reels is a light-hearted slot that delivers on its promise of fun and relaxation. While it may not be the most lucrative or groundbreaking slot, it excels in creating a playful atmosphere that players can enjoy. Fans of fishing-themed slots or those looking for a visually appealing and easy-to-play game will find plenty to like in Fishin’ Reels.