The raft spider (Dolomedes fimbriatus) is a magnificent, semi-aquatic arachnid native to Europe’s bogs, fens, and slow-moving freshwater pools. Historically classified under nursery web spiders (Pisauridae), fishing spiders were formally reassigned to their own distinct family (Dolomedidae) in 2025—a group represented by just two native species in Europe. Hydrophobic hairs on their legs allow these spiders to glide swiftly across the water using surface tension. By resting their front legs on the surface, they read subtle ripples to detect aquatic insects, tadpoles, or small fish. When threatened, they submerge for extended periods, shielded by a shimmering silvery bubble of trapped air. I spotted two of these impressive spiders on a meadow adjacent to a bog, likely watching over their silky nursery webs woven into the foliage of a Swedish forest.