Kazakhstani startup GoFish has reinvented fishing. Its concept allows users to fish without leaving home — a smartphone and an internet connection are enough.
The idea is that a user launches the app, connects to a camera, and controls an actual fishing rod located on the shore of a real body of water. The bobber, water and fish bites are streamed to the user’s screen.
The project currently covers one location — a lake near Almaty — where an intelligent rod equipped with cameras and remote control has been installed. In the future, the team plans to expand such locations to Mexico, Italy, and Norway.
GoFish developers say the idea stemmed from a simple desire to escape routine — instead of endless scrolling, users can open an app and go fishing, whether at the office or at home.
The team has already been testing the equipment under real-world conditions for several months, including during winter, when the water freezes over.
In the near future, GoFish plans to launch a Kickstarter campaign to raise funds for project development and entry into international markets. The funds are expected to be allocated to installing new rods in different countries and improving the app.
Developers believe the initiative may resonate not only with avid anglers but also with those who simply want to unwind unconditionally — without long trips, tents or early mornings.
At the same time, users in Kazakhstan’s online community have expressed confusion about the purpose of the app, arguing that the essence of fishing lies in being physically present.
Separately, a large-scale ice fishing festival kicked off on Jan. 10 and will run until Feb. 1.
