Learn How to Draw A Fish –An Easy Guide
Here is a tutorial for learning how to draw a fish with simple step by step instructions.
The good news is we made this easy enough for even a young artist to draw.
Plus, you can use the same concepts to make several different types.
Whether you want to sketch a cartoon fish, a cute fish, or even Little Nemo, just follow these instructions to create your favorite type!
The easiest way to learn how to draw is to learn to see the shapes in each object. We can help you with that.
In fact we have already broken this cute fish down into shapes and divided it into steps for you to follow along easily.
So grab your favorite drawing paper and pencil and get ready to move on to the simple fish drawing.
Drawing Supplies You’ll Need
- Piece of paper
- Pencil
- Pencil sharpener
- Eraser
A helpful tip when learning to draw is to keep an eraser nearby in case you need to start again.
Also, you can use a pink or white eraser, but I recommend using white since a pink eraser can leave red marks or streaks. Be sure to keep extra paper within reach too, in case you want to start over.
If you’re interested in more tutorials, check out our guides on drawing a frog and a grasshopper.
Step by Step Tutorial For How to Draw A Fish
Step 1. Draw the Head and Part of the Body Shape
First, let’s sketch a big circle in the middle of your paper. This circle is going to be the head of our fish.
It’s super easy and the first step to drawing your very own fish.
Step 2. Sketch the Back End of the Fish
Next, we’re going to draw the back part of the fish.
Make a curvy line starting from the bottom of the circle (that’s the fish head) and connect it back to the top. It will look a bit like a soft triangle.
Then, gently erase the part of the circle on the left side. See? It’s starting to look like a fish!
Step 3. Add the Tail
Now it’s time for the tail. Draw a half-moon shape at the end of the body. If the edges look a bit pointy, just round them off so it looks like a real fishtail.
Step 4. Draw the Fish’s Eye, Head, and Mouth
Let’s give our fish a face. Draw a small circle for the eye on the top right side of the head.
Add a little curved line for the mouth and some rounded half-circles for the lips.
Isn’t it cool that adding these details makes it look much more fish-like?
Step 5. Don’t Forget the Pupil
Inside the eye, draw a moon shape for the pupil. It will give your fish a lively look!
Step 6. Draw the Top Fin
Now, let’s draw the top fin (it’s called a dorsal fin). Start with a curvy line that goes up and down, connecting back to the body.
This fin helps the fish stay balanced in the water.
Step 7. Make the Shape for the Pectoral Fin
The pectoral fin is on the side and helps the fish move and steer. Draw it like a little rectangle sticking out from the belly.
Step 8. Add a Pelvic Fin
The pelvic fin goes on the bottom and also helps with steering. Draw a pointed oval shape for this fin right under the fish’s belly.
Step 9. Provide Finishing Touches on the Fins
Let’s add some detail to those fins. Draw some parallel lines on the top fin and some thin lines on the tail to make them look real.
Extra Fun: Shading, Coloring, and Background
Once you’ve drawn your fish, you can make it even cooler. Try shading to make your fish look 3D. You can also color it in any way you like!
And why not draw a home for your fish? Some seaweed, rocks, or even bubbles will make it appear as if it’s under the sea. Maybe even draw some fish friends!
Bonus Activities If you enjoyed this, check out our ocean-themed activities like the I Spy ocean animals game, platypus and algae coloring pages for more fun!
This guide is all about having fun. Remember, every artist has their own unique style, so make your fish unique.
Don’t forget to Pin it for later!
How to Draw A Fish
How to draw a fish in a 8 steps with this simple drawing tutorial.
Materials
- Pencil
- Eraser
- Pencil Sharpener
- Piece of Paper
Tools
- Please see the full materials list above the tutorial for details.
Instructions
- Draw the Head of the Fish and Part of the Body Shape
- Draw the Back End of the Body
- Create the Tail Where It Meets The Dotted Lines
- Draw the Fish’s Eye, Head, and Mouth
- Add the Pupil For A Neat Detail
- Draw the Top Fin At The Back
- Make the Shape for the Pectoral Fin Below
- Draw a Pelvic Fin Toward The Front And Low
- Provide the Additional Details on the Fins