Parents' Guide to

Monster Fish

By Will Wade, Common Sense Media Reviewer

age 10+

Engaging expert travels the world seeking giant swimmers.

TV National Geographic Channel Educational 2009
Monster Fish Poster Image

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What you will—and won't—find in this TV show.

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What's the Story?

Aquatic expert Zeb Hogan is on a quest to find the world's biggest freshwater fish. And these creatures aren't just big, they're huge! Some grow to 10 feet, can weigh hundreds of pounds, and are truly impressive. But Hogan doesn't just want to show off his angling skills on MONSTER FISH -- he wants viewers to learn all about these creatures, including where they live, what they eat, and why many of them are in danger. Of course, the easy answer to why they're threatened is man. We've damaged their ecosystems, hunted down their food supplies, and introduced invasive species that sometimes threaten to take over their habitats. Hogan is here to explain what we've done and what we can to fix it.

Is It Any Good?

Our review:
Parents say: Not yet rated
Kids say: Not yet rated

Hogan is what sets this show apart from other nature/educational series. Sure, the fish are impressive, but it's Hogan's explanations that make them interesting to viewers. He goes well beyond the basic explanations of where the fish live and what they eat; he also explains how they interact with people, why some are considered delicacies and others are deemed inedible, how human culture has changed each species, and much more. With an impressive academic background, Hogan is eager to share his knowledge, and it's worthwhile listening to him.

Talk to Your Kids About ...

  • Families can talk about the show's message. Do you agree with Hogan's take on the fish and their situation? What take away do you get from watching this show?

  • How have people changed the environment of these fish? Are the changes and damage irreversible?

  • What do you think of these enormous creatures? Do you find them scary? Would you like to be in the water with them like Zeb, up close and personal?

TV Details

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