2 to 6 players

Standard 52-card deck

To collect the most sets of four matching cards (e.g., four Aces, four Kings).

All cards have equal value for matching purposes; no special values assigned.

For 2-3 players: 7 cards each; for 4-6 players: 5 cards each. Remaining cards form the draw pile.

Players sit in a circle. The dealer shuffles the deck and distributes the cards face down.

Players take turns asking one another for specific cards. If the player asked has the card, they must give it; if not, the asking player draws from the pile.

A player scores a point for each set of four cards collected.

The game ends when all sets of four are collected, or the draw pile is empty. The player with the most sets wins.

Variations may include different methods for asking or scoring. Some play with a time limit per turn.

No formal time limit; play continues until all sets are collected or the draw pile is exhausted.

Players may not ask for cards they do not have; infractions can lead to skipping a turn or a warning.

Typically played individually, but can be adapted for team play.

20 to 30 minutes, depending on the number of players and pace of play.

Variations may include different card sets (e.g., using themed decks) or altered scoring rules.

Beginner; the game is simple and relies primarily on luck and memory.

Go Fish has roots in 19th-century America, evolving from similar games played in Europe.

Generally not associated with gambling; it is typically played as a family-friendly game.