The 2025-26 Art of Conservation® Fish Art Contest is officially open for entries. This annual program invites youth from around the world to dive into science, art, and storytelling—while reeling in knowledge about fish and aquatic habitats. Since 1997, more than 86,000 young artists from 46 countries have taken part, helping to fuel the next generation of outdoor stewards.

The free contest is open to students from kindergarten through 12th grade, and each year, thousands of vibrant entries swim in from across the globe.

“The Fish Art Contest offers a unique opportunity to connect students to fishing and the outdoors through science and creative art. Through hands-on learning, students explore the beauty of the natural world while learning the importance of conservation,” said Veronica Mangio, Education & Marketing Manager at Wildlife Forever.

How to Participate:

1. Pick Your Species – Students choose a fish species to research, exploring its habitat, behavior, and conservation story. (Some state contests limit to local fish species)
2. Create Your Masterpiece – Using any creative medium, students produce an original, handmade creation of their chosen fish. 2D or 3D artwork is welcomed!
3. Tell Its Story – (4th grade and above) Submit a one-page creative writing piece that reflects what you’ve learned.
4. Submit Online – Upload your entry via the Fish Art Contest entry form page.

Parents and educators—get your students hooked on fishing and nature through the conservation arts and encourage them to participate in the FREE contest. Students can win state and national recognition and prizes from sponsors.

The 2025-26 contest is open until February 28th, 2026. Resources, guidelines, and entry forms are available at www.FishArt.org. Questions can be sent to Veronica at VMangio@WildlifeForever.org.

For more information and to view previous contest winners, Click Here.