
What is this fisherman aesthetic that’s affecting fashion, home design, and even manicures? Well for starters, it’s not an unexpected nail art trend for summer 2025. Fisherman core is a natural response to the growing desire for a simpler life and a more stable world.
If you look at the fashion itself, you’ll see Gwyneth Paltrow in coastal comfort clothing. You’ll find Louis Vuitton marching models down the runway with lobster bags and Miu Miu showing off models wearing horizontal stripes and trench coats. So, you could describe it as a maximalist trend that’s utilitarian, relaxed, and quite fun. After all, consider that the most popular fisherman core nail designs so far are painted like colorful fishing lures or have trout or sardines swimming on fingertips.
If you’re curious about the fisherman core nail trend, prepare to be hooked as it’s quite alluring!
Fisherman Core Nail Trend
Fishing Lure Nails
Once upon a time, a Texas nail artist went viral for posting fishing lure nails. These vibrant press-ons were based on actual fishing lure images she scoured from the Internet. Moreover, she relied on childhood memories of going fishing and wanted to represent that nostalgia. Here’s a photo of that first set.
The artist continued to creatively transform fishing lure designs into nail art and made this later set look even more realistic. As you might imagine, this style has lured in lots of nail artists on the lookout for something new and fun to try.
If you’re intrigued by fisherman core nails, it may be helpful to have a little background about what fishing lures are. The whole point is to get the fish’s attention by resembling food. Of course, different species value different things to eat, so it’s important to find out what type of fish live in the area and what they normally hunt.
How do you get a fish’s attention? The same way you would attract a human’s gaze – with colorful moving objects. That’s why many lures are sparkly and brightly colored. It’s also why fishers or anglers master how to make them “dance” in the water.
Some rounded, metallic lures are called spoons, and they resemble tiny fish called minnows. Then, there are spinners with multiple moving parts that glitter. And finally, plastic lures look just like worms and other tasty creatures.

LDS Color Craze - Summer Collection

Fishing Nails
To continue your deep dive into fisherman core culture, let’s talk a little more about fishing lures. Obviously, lures are less messy than live bait and more convenient for catch and release because fish don’t usually swallow the entire hook once they realize the thing they chomped on is fake. They also allow you to specifically target a species so that you end up with walleye instead of moray eel.
Of course, using lures takes practice. You have to learn how to move them to make them look natural and sometimes they get snagged on things underwater. But that’s like everything anyone wants to do well in life, you have to keep at it to get results.
The good news is that if you decide to do a fisherman core manicure based on lures, you don’t have to think about what the colors look like underwater. Unless you plan to wear them there!

Fish Nails
Do you know where to catch largemouth bass? You can find them in freshwater like lakes, ponds, and certain reservoirs. They are attracted to crankbaits and spinnerbaits.
Meanwhile, bluegills also live in freshwater but they are more likely to bite crickets and worms so you’ll need to live bait.
If you make it to the ocean, check estuaries and harbors for summer flounder that live in saltwater. They’ll go after shrimp and cutbait just as much as the type of lure called jigs.
Lucky for aspiring anglers, there are many resources online that teach newbies how to fish successfully. And if you want to paint realistic fish nails, brush up on your ombre technique and grab your dotting pen. Blossom or blooming gel can help you achieve softer edges.

Nails Are the Perfect Shape to Paint Fish
This nail artist was inspired by the cardinal tetra fish, a colorful species you’re likely to see in aquariums. It has a vibrant blue head and a bright red stripe on its belly. She commented that the fish’s form suits the natural nail shape. Plus, chrome powder and cat eye polish are ideal for adding a realistic iridescent finish for the scales. Those techniques fit right into the most popular trends right now.
Glow in the Dark Fisherman Core Nails
When you fish in saltwater, consider using luminescent lures that resemble the natural glow of certain types of undersea creatures. They are useful for night fishing and angling in murky water.
Have you seen the LDS Glow-in-the-Dark Collection? There are a dozen shades that are just as pretty in the daylight as they are attractive at night.

LDS Glow In The Dark - 12 Colors GW01-12

The Ultimate Relaxation Manicure
Have you ever watched colorful Koi swimming in a pond? Even without a fishing rod, you can appreciate relaxing by the water. This stunning set of water nails features Koi fish, lily pads, and a touchable texture like ripples on a pond.

Fishing Fan
If this article has nudged you beyond fisherman core nail art toward actually angling, you might need more than new gel colors. Consider selecting a fishing rod, extra line, and a tackle carrier with plenty of flies and lures. You’ll also need line clippers and needle nose pliers to remove the hooks. It might be best to wear waterproof boots if you’ll be wading at the water’s edge. But don’t forget basic supplies like sunglasses, insect repellent, and sunscreen. Finally, a gel manicure should be up to the task as it’s much more resistant than lacquer.
If you had to draw your favorite fish species right now, could you do it from memory? Not to worry, the deeper you plunge into the fisherman core aesthetic, the easier it becomes.

Sardine Nails
Have you seen sardine prints on home decorations and T-shirts? Join in the fun with your very own sardine manicure. This colorful retro design even includes tin can pull tabs on the corners.

OPI Summer 2025 Make 'Em Jelly

Fisherman Core Minimalist Nails
We’re stretching it a little when we say this is a minimalist manicure. These fish are pretty big, but they are on a nude base, so that counts for something. If you wanted to stick your toes in the water without casting your rod, adding a single accent nail with something nautical or fish related is an easy way to start. You can even find fish stickers that simplify everything even more. However, if you’re ready to fully commit to fisherman core nails, remember to not cast directly at the fish because you’ll frighten them. Instead, sneak in with the stunning lures you’ve prepared, and you’ll hook them every time.

Conclusion
Kick back and relax by the water with a new fisherman core set. Catch the trend now and be the first in your area to show off your prize. Find essential nail supplies and trendy colors for your next masterpiece at amazing prices in our store.
Sources:
https://www.madehow.com/Volume-5/Fishing-Lure.html
https://fishingbooker.com/blog/most-common-types-of-fishing-lures-all-you-need-to-know/
https://www.dummies.com/article/home-auto-hobbies/sports-recreation/fishing/fishing-for-dummies-cheat-sheet-208714/