Fall in Stardew Valley brings vibrant colors, falling leaves, and unique fishing opportunities. With different fish available only in this season and various factors like weather, time, and location impacting your catch, fall fishing requires some strategy. This guide covers everything you need to know to make the most of fall fishing in Stardew Valley.
Understanding Fall Fishing Stardew
The fall season in Stardew Valley has its own set of fish types, each found in specific locations and times. Here’s a quick overview:
- Season Duration: Fall lasts 28 days, from the 1st to the 28th.
- Weather Impact: Rainy days bring out unique fish, and some rare catches only appear in specific conditions.
- Fishing Gear: Enhancing your fishing rod with bait and tackle will improve your success rate and make catching rare fish easier.
Essential Gear for Fall Fishing
Before diving into the locations and times, make sure you’re equipped with the right tools:
- Fiberglass Rod (Level 2, 1,800g) or Iridium Rod (Level 6, 7,500g): Use bait to increase catch rate or tackle to improve chances.
- Bait: Essential for reducing waiting time. Craft from bug meat or buy at Willy’s shop.
- Tackle (for Iridium Rod only): Spinner, Trap Bobber, and Cork Bobber each have unique benefits, making it easier to catch more challenging fall fish.
Fall Fish Species and Locations
Knowing where and when to fish is key to catching each fall-exclusive species. Here are some notable fish to look for this season:
- Salmon
- Location: River fishing Salmon includes seven species of Pacific salmon and one of Atlantic salmon. They can be found in the tributaries of the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans.
- Time: 6 AM – 7 PM
- Weather: Any
- Details: Salmon is commonly found in rivers during the day. It’s an easy catch and can be used for various recipes or sold for profit.
- Tiger Trout
- Location: River Pelican Town, the Cindersap Forest, Riverlands Farms, Forest Farms, Meadowlands Farms, and Hill-Top Farms.
- Time: 6 AM – 7 PM
- Weather: Any
- Details: The Tiger Trout is a bit more challenging and is only available in fall and winter, making it essential to catch during the season.
- Walleye
- Location: River, Forest Pond, Mountain Lake
- Time: 12 PM – 2 AM
- Weather: Rainy
- Details: Known for its late-night appearances, the Walleye is only catchable on rainy fall evenings. This fish is needed for the Night Fishing Bundle in the Community Center.
- Eel
- Location: Ocean
- Time: 4 PM – 2 AM
- Weather: Rainy
- Details: Eels are unique due to their evening and rainy requirements. They’re a key fish for crafting Spicy Eel, which provides helpful buffs.
- Albacore
- Location: Ocean
- Time: 6 AM – 11 AM, 6 PM – 2 AM
- Weather: Any
- Details: Albacore are only found in the morning and evening, making them a bit tricky to catch. They’re used in recipes and can fetch a decent price.
Special Fall Fishing Locations
Beyond the usual fishing spots, there are some fall-exclusive areas worth exploring:
- Secret Woods Pond
The Secret Woods Pond offers some interesting catches, like Woodskip, and serves as a great alternative if you’re trying to find resources like hardwood for crafting. - Mutant Bug Lair
Unlocked during the Dark Talisman quest, this area provides unique fish like the Slimejack, which isn’t available elsewhere in the game. If you’re advancing in the main story, be sure to explore this location. - Mines Level 20 and Sewers
The Mines and Sewers are great for catching Ghostfish and Void Salmon, respectively, if you’re tackling bundles and exploring late-game areas.
Tips for Successful Fall Fishing
- Watch the Clock: The time-sensitive nature of some fish, like Walleye and Eel, means planning is crucial.
- Choose Rainy Days Wisely: Rain increases the chance to catch valuable fish like Walleye and Eel. Consider carrying a Rain Totem to summon rain if needed.
- Upgrade Your Fishing Rod: If possible, upgrade to an Iridium Rod and add bait and tackle to maximize catch efficiency.
- Consider Buff Foods: Dishes like Trout Soup, Dish O’ The Sea, and Seafoam Pudding temporarily increase your fishing level, making it easier to catch rare and difficult fish.
- Tackle Special Requests: Completing fish-related requests from the villagers or special orders board is a great way to earn extra rewards.
Maximizing Fall Fishing Profits
Fall fish can be quite profitable if you know what to prioritize. Here’s how to make the most out of your catches:
- Focus on High-Selling Fish: Species like Eel and Walleye fetch high prices, especially when sold as quality catches.
- Craft Fish Ponds: If you’ve upgraded your farm, a Fish Pond lets you grow certain fish types, yielding roe, which can be turned into valuable products.
- Use Fish for Cooking and Bundles: Some fish, like Salmon and Albacore, are needed for recipes and bundles, so don’t sell everything – keep a few for quests and crafting.
- Choose Fish Species for Quality: Aim for high-quality fish by leveling up your fishing skills and using tackle.
Completing Community Center Fishing Bundles
Fall is an ideal season to focus on Community Center bundles. Several fish you’ll need are only available this season:
- Night Fishing Bundle: Requires Walleye and Eel, which can both be caught on rainy fall nights.
- River Fish Bundle: You can also catch Tiger Trout in the fall, so take the chance to mark off these fish early.
Completing these bundles not only rewards you but also brings you closer to restoring the Community Center, unlocking game benefits.
Closing Thoughts on Fall Fishing in Stardew Valley
Fall is a prime season for fishing enthusiasts in Stardew Valley. The unique weather and seasonal fish make it an exciting time, offering players plenty of ways to earn gold, complete bundles, and enjoy the fall scenery. By using the right equipment, keeping track of times, and leveraging rainy days, you’ll maximize your fall fishing haul and advance your farm’s success.
