30 Best Fish Illustration Ideas You Should Check

Source: Arcipello, Trippy Fishy, Deviantart, https://www.deviantart.com/arcipello/art/Trippy-Fishy-862245742

Fish illustration is a playground of creativity where scales shimmer, fins swirl, and colors dance like coral reefs in motion. Whether you're designing for an ocean-themed book, crafting branding for a seafood brand, or just letting your imagination swim wild, the possibilities with fish illustration are endless. From minimalist silhouettes to hyper-detailed aquatic scenes, each illustration style brings its own flavor of flair—some bold, some whimsical, others elegant and serene.

This article dives into the best fish illustration ideas to check, showcasing styles that range from stylized tropical fish bursting with color to charming cartoon renditions perfect for children’s media. You'll find inspiration for techniques using watercolor textures, geometric patterns, and even surreal interpretations that add artistic depth. If you're looking to reel in fresh concepts or just need a splash of new perspective, these fish illustration ideas are bound to spark your next masterpiece. Get ready to explore a sea of possibilities where each fish has its own story to tell—captured line by line, color by color.

Fish Illustration Ideas

Source: TheFontDiva, Deep Sea Galaxy, Deviantart, https://www.deviantart.com/thefontdiva/art/Deep-Sea-Galaxy-918204647

Source: Yahone, Whale Shark, Deviantart, https://www.deviantart.com/yahone/art/Whale-Shark-835686135

Source: Pegaite, Deviantart, https://www.deviantart.com/pegaite/art/Kelogsloops-drawthisinyourstyle-794274144

Source: AlviaAlcedo, Bluefin Tuna, Deviantart, https://www.deviantart.com/alviaalcedo/art/Bluefin-tuna-796336262

Source: Da2vidw, Blue Dream, Deviantart, https://www.deviantart.com/da2vidw/art/Blue-Dream-945819014

Source: JavierGonzalezart, Wavebreak Carp, Deviantart, https://www.deviantart.com/javiergonzalezart/art/Wavebreak-Carp-876543470

Source: LukeFitzsimons, Little Goldfish, Deviantart, https://www.deviantart.com/lukefitzsimons/art/Little-Goldfish-757936226

Source: Irene Neyman, Dribbble, https://dribbble.com/shots/17547989-Koi-fish

Source: Maya Stepien, Californian Sea Creatures, Dribbble, https://dribbble.com/shots/4734732-Californian-Sea-Creatures-Opah

Source: Itsveeelart, Deviantart, https://www.deviantart.com/itsveeelart/art/Bonbori-783818007

Source: Mark Johnston, Dribbble, https://dribbble.com/shots/10876488-Monthly-Mix-April

Source: TamberElla, Painting the Whales, Deviantart, https://www.deviantart.com/tamberella/art/Painting-the-Whales-874140177

Source: StephanieChn, Donut Fish!, Deviantart, https://www.deviantart.com/stephaniechn/art/Donut-Fish-900055020

Source: JavierGonzalezart, Golderm Family, Deviantart, https://www.deviantart.com/javiergonzalezart/art/Golderm-Family-846864215

Source: Evagamayun, Inner Fish, Deviantart, https://www.deviantart.com/evagamayun/art/Inner-Fish-918133776

Source: Astral-Requin, Deviantart, https://www.deviantart.com/astral-requin/art/The-Sea-Apex-Game-Time-973429290

Source: AlviaAlcedo, Deviantart, https://www.deviantart.com/alviaalcedo/art/City-dreams-875043009

Source: NorthernHermit, Deviantart, https://www.deviantart.com/northernhermit/art/Huntsman-s-Trial-part-four-857586901

Source: Itskrolja, Deviantart, https://www.deviantart.com/itskrolja/art/In-the-pond-893231760

Source: Laterne-Magica, Vicking Flying Fish Color, Deviantart, https://www.deviantart.com/laterne-magica/art/Vicking-Flying-fish-color-765998105

Source: Yuumei, Deviantart, https://www.deviantart.com/yuumei/art/Shelter-Within-Nautilus-Reef-Tank-868563796

Source: Pastel-Goaty, Goldfish Bubble, Deviantart, https://www.deviantart.com/pastel-goaty/art/Goldfish-Bubble-942790770

Source: Jia-yi Liu, Behance, https://www.behance.net/gallery/226198663/Underwater-Sunshine

Source: Astral-Requin, Deviantart, https://www.deviantart.com/astral-requin/art/Pack-of-Snouts-833085518

Source: Artisticdaria, Sacred Fish, Deviantart, https://www.deviantart.com/artisticdaria/art/Sacred-fish-851588157

Source: Mairi Hutchinson, Behance, https://www.behance.net/gallery/226808493/Picture-book-idea

Source: Pikaole, Happy Tetra, Deviantart, https://www.deviantart.com/pikaole/art/Happy-tetra-952466161

Source: Vechernika, Deep, Deviantart, https://www.deviantart.com/vechernika/art/Deep-885704708

Source: Teona Sheizashvili, Behance, https://www.behance.net/gallery/155145787/magic-fish

Source: Arcipello, Trippy Fishy, Deviantart, https://www.deviantart.com/arcipello/art/Trippy-Fishy-862245742

What Symbolism Is Often Included in Fish Illustration?

Fish illustration isn’t just about pretty fins and shimmering scales—it’s a swimming pool of deep meaning, culture, and storytelling. Throughout art history and across the world, fish have symbolized everything from prosperity and transformation to mystery and spiritual connection. Whether you're designing a detailed marine scene or a minimalist icon, knowing the symbolism behind fish illustration can help you infuse more meaning into your artwork. Let’s dive into five powerful symbolic themes often found in fish illustration:

Prosperity and Abundance

Fish are a long-standing symbol of wealth and good fortune in many cultures. In Chinese culture, koi fish are associated with prosperity, perseverance, and luck—especially when depicted in pairs or schools. Goldfish, too, are often illustrated with gold tones to symbolize financial abundance and success. If you want your fish illustration to radiate richness and positive vibes, channel this symbolism through rounded forms, flowing tails, and luxurious color palettes like gold, red, and deep orange.

Transformation and Growth

Fish are creatures of water—a symbol of emotion and change. Their ability to swim with grace through deep currents makes them a natural metaphor for personal growth and transformation. A fish moving upstream, like the legendary koi swimming toward the dragon gate, becomes a powerful symbol of struggle, strength, and eventual elevation. This symbolism works beautifully in dynamic fish illustrations where movement and fluidity are emphasized.

Spiritual Connection and Intuition

In many mythologies, fish are linked to the spiritual realm. In Christianity, the fish (Ichthys) is a symbol of faith. In Hinduism, the Matsya avatar—an incarnation of Vishnu—takes the form of a fish, symbolizing divine rescue and cosmic cycles. Fish illustration can carry this spiritual energy when drawn with tranquil expressions, symmetrical bodies, or surrounded by sacred elements like halos, stars, or mandalas. They’re a great choice for artwork that taps into themes of faith, meditation, or inner peace.

Mystery and the Unconscious

Fish live in the depths of oceans, rivers, and lakes—places often associated with the unknown. That makes them a powerful symbol of mystery, hidden thoughts, and the subconscious. In dream interpretation, fish can represent secrets, intuition, or repressed emotions. Illustrators often tap into this by placing fish in surreal or abstract scenes, blending them with celestial elements or foggy waterscapes to evoke a sense of enigma. This symbolism is especially effective in editorial or conceptual artwork.

Fertility and Life Cycles

With their high reproduction rates and close connection to water (the source of life), fish are often seen as symbols of fertility, rebirth, and continuity. In ancient cultures, fish were offerings in fertility rituals and were associated with female deities. Illustrations that play with circular patterns, spirals, or multiple fish in formation can convey these themes. It’s a subtle way to nod to the cycle of life and the power of nature’s renewal.

Fish illustration is more than decorative—it's meaningful. Whether you’re telling stories of personal growth or capturing the serenity of a spiritual journey, the symbolism you embed can elevate your artwork into something deeper and more resonant. Let your fish do more than swim—let them speak.

Which Colors Work Best in Fish Illustration?

When it comes to fish illustration, color isn't just a detail—it’s the star of the show. Whether you’re illustrating a koi pond scene or a deep-sea adventure, the right color palette brings your fish to life. From shimmering blues to tropical bursts of orange and yellow, each hue tells a story and evokes a different emotion. Here are five standout color approaches that work beautifully in fish illustration:

Ocean Blues and Aquatic Greens

The most classic and calming palette, ocean blues and sea greens reflect the natural habitat of most fish. These hues offer a sense of fluidity, motion, and serenity, making them perfect for underwater scenes. Use gradients of teal, aqua, and navy to create depth, or layer them for a dreamy watercolor effect. These colors pair well with silvery whites to depict light glimmering on scales.

Tropical Brights for a Bold Splash

For a fun, vibrant vibe, nothing beats tropical colors. Think bright oranges, hot pinks, lemon yellows, and turquoise. These hues are often found on parrotfish, angelfish, and clownfish. This approach is perfect for cartoon styles, children’s books, or playful branding. The brightness brings out the personality in the fish and creates instant visual interest.

Monochrome and Metallic Accents

If you're aiming for something modern or minimal, monochrome palettes with metallic touches can make a bold statement. Black and white fish illustrations with hints of gold, silver, or copper give a sleek, elegant finish. This is especially striking when illustrating fish like bettas or koi with flowing fins. Metallic accents on scales or tails can add a shimmer without going overboard.

Earthy Neutrals for Natural Realism

For freshwater fish or a more grounded aesthetic, earthy tones such as olive green, rust, brown, and muted mustard work beautifully. This palette mimics the tones of riverbeds and marshy waters, lending a sense of authenticity. It’s ideal for scientific illustrations or nature journals where subtlety and realism are key. Layering with soft grays can help add texture and depth to the fish body.

Fantasy Colors for Imaginative Flair

Who says fish have to be realistic? Fish illustration is a great place to bend the rules and go wild with colors not seen in nature. Electric purples, neon blues, or even rainbow gradients work well when you're aiming for a mythical, surreal, or otherworldly feel. These fantastical palettes are perfect for conceptual art, fantasy worlds, and dreamlike aquatic scenes.

Ultimately, the best colors for your fish illustration depend on the mood, purpose, and style you're going for. Whether you’re channeling the calm of coral reefs or the sparkle of a magical lagoon, your color choices are the creative current that guides the whole composition. Let your imagination swim free—there’s no wrong color in the world of fish illustration, only new possibilities.

What Are Some Creative Backgrounds for Fish Illustration?

A fish illustration can shine on its own, but with the right background, it becomes a full story swimming across the page. The background not only sets the mood but also enhances the visual impact of your aquatic characters. Whether you're aiming for dreamy, dramatic, or downright whimsical, the backdrop you choose can make your fish illustration unforgettable. Let’s dive into five creative background ideas that add extra splash and sparkle to your work.

Coral Reef Fantasy

One of the most beloved backdrops for any fish illustration is the vibrant world of coral reefs. These underwater jungles provide endless color palettes, intricate textures, and natural depth. You can get as realistic or as fantastical as you like—think neon sea anemones, twisting coral branches, or even glowing underwater caves. This background works beautifully for tropical fish and lets you experiment with color interaction and layering.

Abstract Water Patterns

If you prefer a more stylized approach, abstract water patterns are a unique and modern way to highlight your fish. Use soft watercolor washes, bold ink swirls, or even digital gradients that mimic rippling light or bubble trails. These kinds of backgrounds don't compete with the fish for attention—they complement them by adding mood and rhythm. Perfect for editorial illustrations, album covers, or artistic prints.

Vintage Nautical Charts

Give your fish illustration an old-world charm by layering it over vintage nautical maps or aged maritime textures. This approach adds a sense of history and mystery, especially if you’re drawing deep-sea fish or mythical sea creatures. The muted tones of parchment, compass roses, and weathered grids contrast beautifully with the dynamic shapes of fish, adding sophistication and storytelling in one go.

Aquarium Glass View

Bring the viewer right up close to the subject by designing a background that simulates the look of peering into an aquarium. Light reflections, glass distortions, and even little nameplates or bubbling filters can create a cozy, controlled environment. This background idea works great for whimsical or educational fish illustrations, giving them a playful, almost interactive feel.

Celestial Ocean Crossover

For something truly imaginative, blend sea and sky by illustrating your fish swimming through a star-studded universe. Think galaxies swirling with jellyfish, moonlit waves merging with cosmic dust, and constellations shaped like ocean creatures. This dreamlike concept is especially fun for fantasy or surreal projects, offering a creative fusion of space and sea that’s both unexpected and mesmerizing.

Whether you lean into realism, lean toward the whimsical, or dive into the experimental, there’s no shortage of ways to enhance your artwork. A great background doesn’t just support the fish—it turns the entire piece into a scene worth diving into.

What Are Some Creative Fish Illustration Ideas?

Fish illustration is a delightful genre that invites bold imagination, vibrant colors, and playful experimentation. These aquatic creatures offer more than scales and fins—they offer a world of expression, culture, humor, and surreal storytelling. Whether you’re working on packaging, prints, or storytelling visuals, there’s plenty of room to swim beyond the basics. If you're ready to break free from traditional renderings, here are five creative fish illustration ideas to bring new life to your canvas.

Fish With Human Traits

Give your fish some personality—literally! Illustrate fish with expressive human features or accessories, such as monocles, mustaches, purses, or even business suits. A fish sipping coffee or reading a newspaper underwater? Why not! Anthropomorphizing fish makes for humorous, whimsical designs ideal for editorial cartoons, children’s books, and quirky merchandise. These characters come to life with simple exaggerations, expressive eyes, or human-like gestures, making your fish illustration stand out in a sea of standard styles.

Transparent or X-Ray Fish

Take a deep dive into visual storytelling with translucent fish that show internal bones, organs, or imaginative mechanical systems. You can keep it scientific and accurate or lean into a steampunk-inspired style, where the inner workings are made of gears and glowing tubes. This idea adds complexity and intrigue, perfect for educational illustrations, fantasy narratives, or dramatic poster designs. It’s an underwater anatomy class—with flair!

Mythical or Hybrid Fish

Blend species or invent entirely new ones to build your own underwater mythology. Imagine a fish-dragon hybrid, a koi-mermaid fusion, or even a jellyfish-fish hybrid that radiates with bioluminescence. The magic lies in merging traits while keeping the silhouette readable and striking. This creative direction gives your fish illustration a fantastical feel, ideal for video game art, concept sketches, or fantasy storybooks.

Fish as Living Landscapes

Turn your fish into floating ecosystems by incorporating natural elements like forests, mountains, or coral reefs into their bodies. A fish with pine trees growing on its back or waves crashing along its tail creates a poetic fusion of nature. This surreal approach blends environmental awareness with artistic charm, making it a thought-provoking and visually rich concept for posters, apparel, or gallery work.

Pop Art and Patterned Fish

Break away from natural colors and textures and embrace bold, pop-art-inspired designs. Fill your fish with polka dots, checkerboards, rainbows, or comic book halftones. Think bright pink fins and electrified outlines. This stylized approach can make your fish illustration pop in both digital and print formats. It’s loud, joyful, and unapologetically modern—perfect for fashion prints, streetwear, or bold branding elements.

Fish illustration doesn’t have to follow the current. With these creative ideas, you can dive into styles that are humorous, surreal, poetic, or edgy. Whether you’re sketching with traditional media or working digitally, experimenting with these concepts will keep your work fresh, vibrant, and one-of-a-kind.

What Are the Most Popular Styles of Fish Illustration?

Fish illustration is an ocean of visual variety, offering artists endless ways to depict aquatic life with style, flair, and personality. From hyper-realistic renditions to charming cartoon concepts, the world of fish illustration spans a full spectrum of design sensibilities. Whether you’re creating for packaging, decor, storytelling, or education, the style you choose sets the tone for your entire artwork. Here are five of the most popular—and visually captivating—styles of fish illustration making waves across the design world.

Realistic Scientific Style

This approach captures the fine details of a fish’s anatomy with incredible precision. Ideal for field guides, textbooks, and scientific research, this style relies on anatomical accuracy, natural colors, and subtle shading. Scales are carefully rendered, fins are proportionally accurate, and the environment is usually simple to keep the focus on the species. While it may not be the flashiest style, it’s undeniably fascinating in its detail and craftsmanship. It’s the go-to style when accuracy is the priority and the fish needs to be instantly recognizable.

Minimalist Silhouettes

Minimalism in fish illustration strips away the excess to focus on shape and flow. These illustrations often feature bold outlines, solid colors, or negative space to define the form of the fish. Perfect for logos, icons, and modern branding, this style captures the essence of a fish without overcomplicating the design. A single swoosh of a tail or an arch of a body can convey motion, elegance, and identity. It's clean, stylish, and wildly effective for conveying form with minimal effort.

Watercolor and Ink Wash

Dreamy, fluid, and bursting with subtle gradients, watercolor fish illustration captures the magic of underwater motion. Artists love this style for its soft textures and organic blending, mimicking the natural light and movement of aquatic life. Add in a touch of ink for definition, and you get a beautiful balance of softness and clarity. Whether traditional or digitally simulated, this approach is often seen in wall art, stationery, and whimsical books. It gives your fish that ethereal “just-swam-by” feeling.

Cartoon and Whimsical

Big eyes, playful shapes, and exaggerated features rule the cartoon fish kingdom. This popular style is perfect for children’s books, animation, educational materials, and fun merchandise. The fish may smile, wear hats, blow hearts instead of bubbles, or ride seahorses to work. There are no rules—only creative freedom. It’s a joyful style that thrives on personality and story, making every fish a character with charm and attitude.

Geometric and Abstract

Modern, edgy, and design-forward, geometric fish illustrations turn natural forms into puzzles of shape and symmetry. Triangles, circles, and lines combine to form stylized versions of aquatic life that feel fresh and contemporary. This style often uses bold colors, striking contrasts, and dynamic compositions, making it a popular choice for editorial graphics, product packaging, and modern murals.

From realism to abstraction, the beauty of fish illustration lies in its adaptability. With these styles, you can tailor your artwork to suit any mood, message, or medium—no scuba gear required.

Conclusion

Fish illustration offers a dynamic range of styles, each suited to different creative goals and audiences. Whether you’re aiming for scientific precision, playful storytelling, or artistic abstraction, the style you choose can greatly enhance the impact of your work. From minimalist silhouettes to vibrant watercolor scenes, fish illustration allows for endless artistic expression. Understanding these popular styles helps you better tailor your designs to fit various projects and visual narratives. With thoughtful execution, your fish illustration can swim beyond aesthetics and deliver meaning, motion, and character—making each piece a standout in its own creative current.

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