If you’re an avid Stardew Valley player on the Nintendo Switch, chances are you’ve wondered how to reel in those elusive fish that inhabit the game’s various bodies of water. Fishing can be a relaxing and rewarding activity in Stardew Valley, and with the right techniques, you can master the art of catching the biggest and rarest fish in the game. In this guide, we will provide you with comprehensive instructions and helpful tips to enhance your fishing experience on the Switch, ensuring you become an expert angler in no time.
Before embarking on your fishing adventures, it’s essential to have the necessary equipment. In Stardew Valley, you’ll need a fishing rod, which can be purchased from Willy’s Fish Shop in Pelican Town. Once you have your rod, you can head to any body of water and cast your line. However, different types of fish prefer different baits and lures, so it’s important to experiment to discover which bait works best for the fish you’re trying to catch. Additionally, the time of day and weather conditions can also influence the types of fish that are available.
When casting your line, aim for the green bars that appear on the water’s surface. These bars indicate areas where fish are more likely to be found. Once you’ve cast your line, you’ll need to wait for a fish to bite. When a fish bites, you’ll see the bobber on your line start to move. Quickly press the “A” button to set the hook. Once the hook is set, you’ll need to reel in the fish by holding down the “A” button. Be careful not to reel in too quickly, or you’ll risk losing the fish. Instead, reel in steadily and smoothly, and soon enough, you’ll have your first catch of the day.
Casting Your Line
1. **Choose the Right Spot**: The location you choose to cast your line can significantly impact your fishing success. Look for areas with bubbles rising to the surface or ripples in the water, as these often indicate fish activity. Avoid casting near obstacles like rocks or trees, as they can snag your line.
2. **Equip the Right Rod**: Different types of fishing rods have varying casting distances and lure weights. Choose a rod that is appropriate for the size of the fish you are targeting. Longer rods generally allow for farther casts, while shorter rods provide more accuracy.
3. **Attach Your Lure**: The lure you use will determine the type of fish you attract. Experiment with different lures until you find one that entices the fish in the area. Use bait that matches the size and type of fish you are trying to catch. For example, smaller bait works well for smaller fish like chubs and anchovies, while larger bait is better for salmon and tuna.
4. **Cast Your Line**: To cast your line, hold down the A button and pull back on the left analog stick. The longer you hold down the button, the farther your line will travel. Release the button to send the lure flying toward your target spot. Aim for the bubbles or ripples in the water to increase your chances of catching a fish.
5. **Wait for a Bite**: Once your line is in the water, be patient and wait for a fish to bite. The bobber will indicate when a fish has taken the bait. Keep an eye on the bobber and be ready to set the hook when it moves.
6. **Set the Hook**: When the bobber moves, quickly press the A button to set the hook. This will embed the hook in the fish’s mouth and secure it on your line. Be careful not to set the hook too early or too late, as you may miss the fish or break the line.
7. **Reel in the Fish**: Once the hook is set, begin reeling in the fish by pressing the A button. Keep the line taut as you reel, but be careful not to overtighten it, as this can break the line or damage the fish. As the fish gets closer to the shore or boat, use the left analog stick to guide it into your net or onto the deck.
Choosing the Right Bait
Selecting the appropriate bait is crucial for successful fishing in Stardew Valley Switch. Bait influences the type and size of fish that will be attracted to your hook. Here are some guidelines for choosing the right bait:
Preferred Bait for Different Fish Species
Each fish species has a specific preference for a particular type of bait. This preference is determined by the fish’s diet and foraging habits. For instance, salmon and sturgeon favor roe, while perch and chub prefer worms. Experimenting with different baits is essential to discover the optimal choice for targeting specific species.
Seasonal Availability of Bait
The availability of bait varies with the seasons in Stardew Valley. For example, worms can be dug up in the soil during the spring and summer, while shad roe is only available during the fall. Using seasonal bait increases your chances of catching the corresponding fish species that are most active during that particular season.
Bait Effects and Buffs
Some baits provide additional effects or buffs that can enhance your fishing experience. For example, using quality bait increases the likelihood of catching rare or higher-quality fish. Magic bait, on the other hand, has a chance of teleporting the bobber to a new location, saving you time and effort. Consider the specific attributes of different baits to optimize your fishing strategy.
| Bait Type | Preferred Fish Species | Availability | Effects/Buffs |
|---|---|---|---|
| Regular Bait | Common fish | Year-round | None |
| Worm | Perch, Chub | Spring, Summer | None |
| Salmonberry | Salmon, Trout | Spring, Summer | None |
| Roe | Salmon, Sturgeon | Fall | Increased chance of catching large fish |
| Quality Bait | All fish | Willy’s Shop | Increased chance of catching rare/high-quality fish |
| Magic Bait | All fish | Community Center reward | Chance to teleport bobber to a new location |
Identifying Fishing Spots
Finding fishing spots in Stardew Valley is crucial for anglers to cast their lines. These spots are indicated by ripples or bubbles on the water’s surface. Players should observe water bodies carefully for any signs of movement.
Identifying bodies of water
Fishing spots can be found in various bodies of water, including rivers, lakes, and the ocean. Rivers can be identified by their flowing currents, while lakes are static bodies of water typically surrounded by land. The ocean is vast and accessible from the southern part of the map.
Locations of fishing spots
Here is a table summarizing the common locations of fishing spots:
| Location | Type of water |
|---|---|
| Mountain Lake | Lake |
| Pelican Town River | River |
| Cindersap Forest River | River |
| West of Pierre’s General Store | Pond |
| Zuzu City Wharf | Ocean |
Timing Your Reel
The timing of your reel is crucial for successful fishing. Just like in real life, you need to be patient and wait for the right moment to strike. Here’s how to do it:
4. Striking and reeling
Once the fish is hooked, you’ll need to strike and reel it in. To strike, simply press the A button. This will set the hook and start reeling in the fish. As you reel in the fish, you’ll need to adjust the tension on the line by pressing the ZL or ZR buttons. If the tension is too high, the fish will break free. If it’s too low, the fish will tire and you’ll be able to reel it in more easily.
Here’s a table summarizing the reel timing:
| Action | Button | Timing |
|---|---|---|
| Strike | A | When the fish is hooked |
| Adjust tension | ZL or ZR | As you reel in the fish |
| Reel in | A | Continuously until the fish is caught |
With a little practice, you’ll be reeling in fish like a pro in no time!
Fighting the Fish
Once you’ve cast your line, the fish will begin to fight back. You’ll need to keep the tension on the line by holding down the button that you used to cast. The bar at the bottom of the screen will show how close you are to catching the fish.
Pressing the Button
When the fish is fighting back, you’ll need to press the button that you used to cast again to keep the tension on the line. The timing of when you press the button is important. If you press it too early, you’ll lose the fish. If you press it too late, the fish will start to pull the line out of your hands again.
Using the Rod
You can also use the rod to help you catch the fish. When the fish is fighting back, you can move the rod up and down to help keep the tension on the line. You can also use the rod to pull the fish towards you.
Reeling the Fish In
Once you’ve tired out the fish, you can start to reel it in. To do this, simply hold down the button that you used to cast and turn the reel. The fish will eventually be pulled up to the surface of the water, and you can then grab it with your hands/net.
Catching the Fish
Once you’ve grabbed the fish, you’ve successfully caught it! The fish will be added to your inventory, and you can then sell it, cook it, or use it to complete quests.
Improving Your Skill
Fishing in Stardew Valley on the Nintendo Switch is a skill that requires patience and practice. Here are some tips to help you improve your fishing skills:
Timing is Everything
When you cast your line, pay attention to the bobber. As soon as the bobber starts to sink, quickly press the ‘A’ button to set the hook. The faster you set the hook, the easier it will be to catch the fish.
Use the Right Rod and Tackle
The type of rod and tackle you use can affect your fishing success. As you progress in the game, you will unlock better rods and tackle that will make it easier to catch fish.
Find Good Fishing Spots
Not all fishing spots are created equal. Some spots, like the mountain lake, are known for having more fish than others. Experiment with different fishing spots to find the ones that are most productive for you.
Use Fish Bait
Fish bait can help you attract fish and make it easier to catch them. There are different types of fish bait available, so experiment to find the one that works best for you.
Attend the Fishing Tournament
The Fishing Tournament is a great way to improve your fishing skills and earn rewards. The tournament is held once a season, and you can compete against other players to see who can catch the most fish.
Table of Fish and Their Locations
| Fish | Location |
|---|---|
| Largemouth Bass | Any lake or river during summer and fall |
| Trout | Mountain Lake during spring, summer, or fall |
| Salmon | Any ocean during spring, summer, or fall |
| Sturgeon | Cindersap Forest at the largest lake |
| Pufferfish | Any ocean |
Crafting Fishing Rods
Crafting fishing rods is crucial in Stardew Valley, as they enhance your fishing skills and increase your chances of catching various fish species.
To craft fishing rods, you’ll need wood, which can be acquired by chopping down trees with an axe. Different types of fishing rods require varying amounts and types of wood, as shown in the table below:
| Rod Type | Wood | Quantity |
|---|---|---|
| Training Rod | Any type | 6 |
| Bamboo Rod | Bamboo | 20 |
| Fiberglass Rod | Fiber | 12 |
| Iridium Rod | Iridium Bar | 5 |
Once you have the required materials, you can craft fishing rods at Clint’s Blacksmith Shop. Simply interact with the furnace and select the “Craft” option. Choose the desired rod type and confirm the crafting process.
Each fishing rod has unique attributes that affect its casting distance, line strength, and durability. Upgrading your fishing rod grants you access to larger bodies of water and allows you to catch fish that require stronger lines.
Rare Fish Species
Stardew Valley is home to a wide variety of fish, including some rare and elusive species. These fish are often more difficult to catch than common fish, but they can be worth the extra effort, as they can sell for a higher price or be used in certain recipes.
Barbed Stingray
The Barbed Stingray is an extremely rare fish that can be found in the ocean during the summer and fall. It is primarily active at night but has a 10% catch rate during all other times of the day. This fish is worth a whopping 2,000g, making it one of the most valuable fish in the game.
Blobfish
The Blobfish is a deep-sea fish that can be found in the ocean during the winter and spring. It is primarily active at night but has a 5% catch rate during all other times of the day. Despite its unappealing appearance, the Blobfish is worth 1,500g.
Crimsonfish
The Crimsonfish is a rare fish that can be found in the mountain lake during the summer and fall. It is primarily active at night but has a 5% catch rate during all other times of the day. This fish is worth 1,000g.
Flounder
The Flounder is a rare fish that can be found in the ocean during the winter and spring. It is primarily active at night but has a 10% catch rate during all other times of the day. This fish is worth 800g.
Ice Pip
The Ice Pip is a rare fish that can be found in the mountain lake during the winter. It is primarily active at night but has a 10% catch rate during all other times of the day. This fish is worth 900g.
Lava Eel
The Lava Eel is a rare fish that can be found in the volcano during the summer. It is primarily active at night but has a 10% catch rate during all other times of the day. This fish is worth 700g.
Midnight Squid
The Midnight Squid is a rare fish that can be found in the ocean during the winter. It is only active at night. This fish is worth 600g.
Sturgeon
The Sturgeon is a rare fish that can be found in the river during the spring and fall. It is primarily active at night but has a 10% catch rate during all other times of the day. This fish is worth 200g.
Utilizing Buffs and Bonuses
In Stardew Valley for the Nintendo Switch, there are a plethora of buffs and bonuses available to enhance your fishing experience. Utilizing these advantages can significantly increase your chances of catching rare and valuable fish.
Food Buffs
Consuming certain foods can temporarily grant various buffs that improve your fishing abilities. For instance, Lobster Bisque increases your fishing level by 2, while Squid Ink Ravioli provides a luck boost.
Equipment Enhancements
Upgrading your fishing rod and tackle can provide permanent bonuses to your fishing skills. For example, the Iridium Fishing Rod has a higher cast distance and durability than lower-tier rods.
Environmental Factors
The weather, time of day, and location can influence the effectiveness of your fishing. Fishing during the rain can increase your chances of catching certain species, while casting during the night may yield more valuable fish.
Luck Modifiers
Your luck stat plays a significant role in your fishing success. Factors that increase your luck, such as wearing a lucky ring or having the Luck perk, enhance your chances of catching rare fish.
Fishing Skills
As you level up your fishing skill, you gain access to new abilities and bonuses. For instance, at level 5 you can cast your line further, while at level 10 you can reel in fish more quickly.
Special Events
The Fish Pond feature in Stardew Valley can provide unique bonuses. By stocking certain types of fish in your pond, you can gain buffs to your fishing abilities when you interact with them.
Shrines
Visiting the Shrine of the Fisher in the Forest can grant you a random fishing buff for the day. These buffs can range from increased fish quality to reduced fishing line breakage.
Fishing Mini-Games
Participating in the Fishing Mini-Game at the Stardew Valley Fair gives you the opportunity to earn special prizes, including buffs that enhance your fishing skills.
Profitable Fishing Strategies
Iridium Rod
The Iridium Rod is the best fishing rod in Stardew Valley, and it will give you the best chance to catch rare and valuable fish. To get the Iridium Rod, you must first complete the “Qi’s Challenge” quest in the Casino. Once you have the Iridium Rod, equip it and start fishing!
Fishing Lures
Fishing lures can be used to increase the chance of catching certain types of fish. Different lures are effective for different types of fish, so it’s important to use the right lure for the fish you’re trying to catch. For example, the Cork Bobber is a good lure for catching small fish, while the Trap Bobber is a good lure for catching large fish.
Fish Ponds
Fish Ponds are a great way to earn money from fishing. You can build Fish Ponds on your farm, and then stock them with fish. The fish will breed and produce roe, which you can sell for a profit. You can also sell the fish directly, but roe is usually more profitable.
Fishing Minigame
The fishing minigame is a simple but challenging way to catch fish. To start the fishing minigame, cast your line into the water. Once a fish bites, you must press the button repeatedly to keep the fish on the line. When the fish is tired, it will stop fighting and you will be able to reel it in.
Treasure Chests
Treasure chests are occasionally found while fishing. Treasure chests can contain valuable items, such as jewelry, weapons, and gold. To open a treasure chest, you must use a Rusty Key or a Golden Key.
Fish Types
There are many different types of fish in Stardew Valley, each with its own unique value. Some of the most valuable fish include:
| Fish | Value |
|---|---|
| Sturgeon | 250g |
| Caviar | 500g |
| Lobster | 300g |
Fishing Spots
There are many different fishing spots in Stardew Valley, each with its own unique set of fish. Some of the best fishing spots include:
| Location | Fish |
|---|---|
| Mountain Lake | Trout, Salmon |
| Ocean | Tuna, Mahi-Mahi |
| River | Carp, Catfish |
