Nigashita Sakana wa Ookikatta ga Tsuriageta Sakana ga Ookisugita Ken Anime Adaptation Announced for Spring 2026!
Get ready for a captivating new adventure! The highly anticipated light novel series, Nigashita Sakana wa Ookikatta ga Tsuriageta Sakana ga Ookisugita Ken, is officially receiving a television anime adaptation, set to premiere in April 2026. This delightful fantasy romance, also known by its charming English title Always a Catch!, promises to whisk viewers away into a world of unexpected twists and heartfelt comedy.
The news broke with the grand opening of an official website by production powerhouse TMS Entertainment, treating fans to a vibrant teaser visual and a glimpse into what’s to come. Animation studio TROYCA, known for their distinct visual flair, will be bringing Mayo Momoyo’s beloved story to life on screen.
The Journey of a Bestselling Light Novel
The enchanting tale of Nigashita Sakana wa Ookikatta ga Tsuriageta Sakana ga Ookisugita Ken began its life as a short story penned by Mayo Momoyo on the popular Shousetsuka ni Narou website back in October 2020. Due to its burgeoning popularity, a sequel series quickly followed in December 2020, capturing the hearts of many readers.
Recognizing its immense potential, Square Enix began publishing the series under their SQEX Novel light novel imprint in August 2021, featuring beautiful illustrations by Itsuki Mito. The series has since become a sensation, with the fifth volume hitting shelves in December 2024 and the sixth volume recently going on sale. Accumulating a phenomenal 1 million copies in circulation, it’s clear that this story has truly resonated with fans.
Meet the Voices Behind the Characters
A stellar cast of voice actors has been announced to breathe life into the memorable characters of Nigashita Sakana wa Ookikatta ga Tsuriageta Sakana ga Ookisugita Ken. Prepare to hear some familiar and beloved voices:
| Character | Voice Actor | Notable Role |
|---|---|---|
| Maria Annovazzi | Serizawa Yuu | 3D Kanojo: Real Girl |
| Renato di Rubini | Tamaru Atsushi | Nanatsu no Maken ga Shihai suru |
| Aida Amethis | Hayami Saori | Sakamoto Days |
| Placido di Rubini | Umeda Shuuichirou | Hikaru ga Shinda Natsu |
| Raimondo Cigata | Yashiro Taku | Rurouni Kenshin: Meiji Kenkaku Romantan (2023) |
The Creative Minds Bringing it to Life
Bringing this fantastic world to the animated screen is an experienced and talented team. Here are the key staff members at the helm of the Nigashita Sakana wa Ookikatta ga Tsuriageta Sakana ga Ookisugita Ken anime production:
| Role | Staff Member | Notable Work |
|---|---|---|
| Director | Oguro Akira | Ars no Kyojuu |
| Series Composition | Yokote Michiko | Kizetsu Yuusha to Ansatsu Hime |
| Character Design | Suzuki Isamu | Shinobi no Ittoki |
| Studio | TROYCA |
A Spirited Tale of Destiny and Discovery
The story introduces us to Maria Annovazzi, the youngest daughter of a duke, a young woman brimming with potential and initially raised as the heiress of her esteemed house. However, her life takes an unexpected turn with the arrival of her baby brother, suddenly relieving her of her weighty duties. Faced with the daunting task of securing a husband, Maria quickly discovers that all the eligible bachelors within her duchy are already taken, leaving her on the brink of a life as a spinster!
Determined to change her fate, Maria embarks on an exciting journey to study abroad in Rubini, hopeful of finding a suitable partner with the assistance of her distant relative, Aida. But just when she thought things couldn’t get more complicated, a shocking revelation hits her: the Crown Prince has broken off their engagement, an engagement Maria had no knowledge of! Her bewildered cry, “Huh?! I don’t remember getting engaged!?”, perfectly encapsulates the delightful and chaotic humor awaiting viewers.
From Light Novel to Manga: Expanding the Universe
The popularity of Nigashita Sakana wa Ookikatta ga Tsuriageta Sakana ga Ookisugita Ken isn’t limited to its light novel format. The charming story also boasts a manga adaptation, skillfully drawn by Kaki Nagato, which launched on Square Enix’s Manga Up! service in April 2022. The eighth volume of the manga recently went on sale in May, with the ninth volume eagerly anticipated for release on November 7.
For international fans, Square Enix is also releasing the manga in English, accessible through their Manga Up! website and app. The fourth English volume shipped in September, and the fifth volume is planned for release in December, allowing even more readers to dive into Maria’s humorous and heartwarming journey.
Stay Updated with Official Channels!
To keep up with all the latest news, dazzling visuals, and character reveals for Nigashita Sakana wa Ookikatta ga Tsuriageta Sakana ga Ookisugita Ken, make sure to visit the official website and follow the official X (formerly Twitter) account!
- Official Website: nigetsuri-anime.com
- Official X: @nigetsuri_anime
