If you’re a fan of Stardew Valley and enjoy the relaxing pastime of fishing, you know how important it is to have a high-quality fishing rod. However, getting your hands on the best fishing rod in Stardew Valley can be a bit of a challenge. That’s where this comprehensive guide comes in!
In this guide, we’ll explore the different types of fishing rods available in Stardew Valley, where to find the best fishing spots, and offer tips and tricks for catching rare fish. We’ll also cover how to upgrade your fishing rod and the benefits of using the best one available.
Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced fisher, this guide will give you all the information you need to catch the biggest and best fish in Stardew Valley. So, let’s dive in!
Read on to discover everything you need to know about getting the best fishing rod in Stardew Valley and become a master angler in no time!
Table of Contents
The Different Types of Fishing Rods Available in Stardew Valley
If you want to become a successful fisherman in Stardew Valley, it’s important to choose the right fishing rod for the job. There are several different types of fishing rods available in the game, each with their own unique strengths and weaknesses.
The first and most basic type of fishing rod is the Bamboo Pole, which is available for purchase at Willy’s Fish Shop for only 500g. While it’s a great starter rod, it has its limitations and can only catch basic fish.
The second type of fishing rod is the Fiberglass Rod, which is a step up from the Bamboo Pole. It can catch a wider variety of fish, and it also allows you to use bait to attract fish. However, it’s a bit more expensive, with a price tag of 1800g.
The third type of fishing rod is the Iridium Rod, which is the best and most expensive rod in the game. It can catch any type of fish, and it also allows you to use bait and tackle simultaneously. However, it comes with a hefty price tag of 7500g, making it difficult to obtain for beginners.
Finally, there’s the Training Rod, which is a unique fishing rod that is only available through a special event. While it’s not the most powerful rod, it’s a great way to practice your fishing skills and catch some easy fish.
Now that you know about the different types of fishing rods in Stardew Valley, it’s time to choose the one that’s right for you. Keep in mind that each rod has its own advantages and disadvantages, so be sure to consider your fishing goals and budget when making your decision.
Bamboo Pole
The Bamboo Pole is the most basic fishing rod available in Stardew Valley. It’s the first fishing rod that players receive at the beginning of the game. The Bamboo Pole is perfect for new players who are just starting and learning the ropes of fishing. However, its limited range and durability make it unsuitable for more experienced anglers.
Despite its simplicity, the Bamboo Pole can catch a variety of fish, including common and uncommon ones. Players can use it to catch fish in any body of water in the game, including ponds, lakes, and the ocean. It can also be used for crabbing in the Tide Pools on the beach.
Upgrading the Bamboo Pole isn’t possible, so players who want to catch rare fish will need to upgrade to a better rod. However, players can keep the Bamboo Pole as a backup rod in case their other rods break or if they run out of bait.
- The Bamboo Pole can be obtained for free from Willy’s shop in the Fishing Shop.
- The Bamboo Pole has a casting range of 7 tiles and can reach most spots in the game.
- The Bamboo Pole has a durability of 25 casts, after which it will break and need to be replaced.
- Players can use bait with the Bamboo Pole to increase their chances of catching fish.
- The Bamboo Pole cannot catch legendary fish, which require more advanced fishing rods.
The Bamboo Pole is a great way for new players to learn the basics of fishing in Stardew Valley. While it’s not as powerful or durable as more advanced fishing rods, it’s perfect for catching common and uncommon fish in the game’s early stages. Even experienced players can keep it around as a backup or use it for crabbing in the Tide Pools.
Fiberglass Rod
The fiberglass rod is the second tier of fishing rods in Stardew Valley. It is stronger and more durable than the bamboo pole, allowing players to catch tougher fish with greater ease.
- Cost: The fiberglass rod can be purchased from Willy’s Fish Shop for 1,800g.
- Location: The fiberglass rod can be found in Willy’s Fish Shop, which is located on the beach in Pelican Town.
- Upgrade: The fiberglass rod can be upgraded to the iridium rod, which is the best fishing rod in the game.
- Benefits: The fiberglass rod allows players to cast their line further into the water, making it easier to catch fish that are further away.
- Tips: It is recommended to use bait with the fiberglass rod to attract fish more quickly. Additionally, using a fishing tackle can help improve your chances of catching rare fish.
Overall, the fiberglass rod is a great investment for any Stardew Valley player looking to improve their fishing game. With its increased durability and casting distance, players will be able to catch a wider variety of fish and earn more money from their catches.
Iridium Rod
The Iridium Rod is the best fishing rod available in Stardew Valley. It can be purchased from Willy’s Fish Shop for 7500g after you reach Fishing level This rod is made of iridium, making it both strong and durable. With this rod, you can catch every fish in the game, including the legendary fish.
In addition to being the most powerful rod, the Iridium Rod also comes with a tackle slot, which allows you to attach bait and tackle to increase your chances of catching fish. The tackle slot can hold different types of bait, and it also has four slots for tackle. Tackle is gear that can be attached to your rod to give you an advantage when fishing.
The Iridium Rod can also be customized with different colors and shapes. Once you have purchased the rod, you can visit Willy’s shop to customize it to your liking. This is purely cosmetic and does not affect the rod’s performance, but it can add a personal touch to your fishing experience.
It’s worth noting that the Iridium Rod is quite expensive, and it may take some time to save up enough money to purchase it. However, the investment is worth it for serious anglers who want to catch every fish in the game and complete their collection.
Where to Find the Best Fishing Spots in Stardew Valley
Stardew Valley is full of great fishing spots, but finding the best ones can be a challenge. Seasons, time of day, and weather can all affect the quality of fishing in certain areas, so it’s important to know where to go and when.
One of the best spots for fishing in Stardew Valley is the ocean. With a variety of fish available and the possibility of catching treasures, fishing in the ocean can be both lucrative and entertaining.
Another great spot is Pelican Town’s river. This is an ideal place for beginners, as there are plenty of fish available and the water is calm and easy to fish in.
If you’re looking for a more challenging experience, try Cindersap Forest’s pond. This area has a variety of fish, including some rare ones that can only be caught at certain times of day.
Finally, The Secret Woods is a hidden area that can only be accessed by chopping a tree with a steel axe. This area has its own set of fish and is a great place for experienced anglers looking for a new challenge.
Pelican Town Pier
Pelican Town Pier is located just south of the beach and is a great place to catch a variety of fish, especially during the spring and summer months. You can catch different types of fish depending on the season, so make sure to check the calendar to see what is available. One of the benefits of fishing at the pier is that it has no time restrictions, so you can fish as long as you want.
If you’re looking for a chance to catch some rare fish, try fishing at the Pelican Town Pier during the rain or during the night. You might catch some rare fish like the Midnight Carp or the Ghostfish. You can also increase your chances of catching rare fish by using bait or tackle, or by increasing your fishing skill level.
Another tip is to try using different types of bait and tackle to see which ones work best at the Pelican Town Pier. Different fish respond differently to bait and tackle, so it’s worth experimenting with different combinations to see what works best.
Finally, if you’re having trouble catching fish at the Pelican Town Pier, try upgrading your fishing rod or increasing your fishing skill level. This will make it easier to catch fish and increase your chances of catching rare fish.
Cindersap Forest Pond
The Cindersap Forest Pond is located just south of Leah’s Cottage and can be accessed by going through the southwest exit of Pelican Town. It is a great spot to catch a variety of fish, including the Sturgeon, which is one of the most valuable fish in the game.
To increase your chances of catching rare fish, make sure to bring the Spinner or the Trap Bobber tackle. Additionally, using bait such as Bug Meat or Carp Surprise can attract fish more quickly and help you catch more fish in a shorter amount of time.
Tips and Tricks for Catching Rare Fish in Stardew Valley
Time of Day Matters: Certain rare fish can only be caught at specific times of day or in specific weather conditions. Make sure to check the in-game fishing guide to know when and where to look for these fish.
Use Bait and Tackle: Using bait and tackle can significantly increase your chances of catching rare fish. Make sure to stock up on these items before going fishing.
Level Up Your Fishing Skill: As you level up your fishing skill, you will unlock new fishing techniques and be able to catch more difficult fish. Don’t be discouraged if you can’t catch a rare fish at first, it may take some time and practice to level up your skill.
Fish in the Right Location: Some rare fish can only be caught in specific locations. Make sure to explore all of the fishing spots in Stardew Valley and experiment with different baits and tackle to see what works best.
Don’t Give Up: Catching rare fish in Stardew Valley can be a challenging and time-consuming task, but the feeling of finally catching that elusive fish is incredibly rewarding. Don’t give up and keep fishing, you never know what you might catch!
Time of day matters
If you’re having trouble finding rare fish, try fishing at different times of day. Some rare fish only appear during specific times, so it’s important to pay attention to the clock.
Early mornings are great for catching certain types of fish, such as the elusive Angler which can only be caught between 4:00 AM and 7:00 AM.
Nighttime is also a good time to fish for rare species. For example, the Super Cucumber can only be caught in the ocean from 6:00 PM to 2:00 AM.
It’s also important to keep in mind that certain seasons may affect which fish are available. For example, the Legend, a rare fish found in the mountain lake, can only be caught during winter.
How to Upgrade Your Fishing Rod in Stardew Valley
Upgrade Your Fishing Rod: To upgrade your fishing rod, you need to visit Willy’s Fish Shop and purchase the necessary materials.
Materials Required: You will need to obtain specific materials depending on the type of rod you have, such as copper, iron, or gold bars.
Upgrade Benefits: Upgrading your fishing rod will make it easier to catch fish, as it increases the size of the green bar and reduces the time it takes to reel in a catch.
Expert Rod: Once you have upgraded your fishing rod to gold quality, you can purchase the Expert Rod from Willy, which has a larger green bar and even faster reeling speed.
Use Bait and Tackle: To further improve your fishing abilities, you can also attach bait or tackle to your rod. Bait attracts fish to your hook, while tackle makes it easier to catch them.
Visit Willy’s shop
If you want to upgrade your fishing rod in Stardew Valley, you need to visit Willy’s shop on the beach. Willy will be happy to help you upgrade your fishing rod in exchange for some resources.
Resources needed: To upgrade your fishing rod, you will need resources like copper bars, iron bars, and gold bars. You can also use diamonds to get the Iridium rod.
Upgrade levels: There are three upgrade levels in the game: Bamboo Pole, Fiberglass Rod, and Iridium Rod. The higher the upgrade level, the better the fishing rod’s performance.
Upgrade effects: Upgrading your fishing rod will not only give you access to catch bigger and rare fish but also help you catch fish more quickly, reduce the chance of getting junk items, and make fishing less tiring.
Upgrade cost: The upgrade cost of the fishing rod varies based on the level of upgrade. The cost can range from 1,800g to 7,500g and resources like copper, iron, and gold bars.
Collect resources for crafting an Iridium Rod
If you’re aiming to craft an Iridium Rod in Stardew Valley, you’ll need to collect some rare resources. Here are the items you’ll need:
- Iridium Bar: This can be obtained by mining Iridium Nodes in the Skull Cavern or from Omni Geodes.
- Gold Bar: You’ll need 5 Gold Bars, which can be smelted in a Furnace using 5 Gold Ore.
- Battery Pack: This can be obtained by either completing the Vault Room in the Community Center or by purchasing it from the Traveling Cart for 10,000g.
- Wire: You’ll need 2 Copper Bars, which can be smelted in a Furnace using 2 Copper Ore, and 1 Iron Bar, which can be smelted in a Furnace using 1 Iron Ore.
- Unshipped Walleye: This is a requirement for the Angler achievement, but it can also be used to craft the Iridium Rod. The Walleye can be caught in the Fall season in the river at night.
Once you have all of the necessary resources, head to Willy’s Fish Shop in Pelican Town and select “Upgrade Rod” from the menu. You’ll need to have already upgraded to the Fiberglass Rod before you can upgrade to the Iridium Rod.
With the Iridium Rod in hand, you’ll have a much easier time catching fish in Stardew Valley, including some of the game’s rarest and most elusive species!
Note that the process of obtaining all of these resources can be quite time-consuming and require a lot of effort, so be sure to plan accordingly and enjoy the journey!
Complete fishing bundles at the Community Center
| Bundle Name | Fish Required | Reward |
|---|---|---|
| Night Fishing Bundle | Walleye, Bream, Eel, Sturgeon | Unlocks access to the Glittering Boulder in the mines |
| River Fish Bundle | Sunfish, Catfish, Shad, Tiger Trout | Bait and Spinner |
| Lake Fish Bundle | Perch, Chub, Walleye | Dressed Spinner and Trap Bobber |
| Ocean Fish Bundle | Tuna, Red Snapper, Tilapia, Sardine | Crab Pot and Lobster Trap |
Completing fishing bundles at the Community Center is a great way to earn rewards and progress in the game. Each bundle requires a specific set of fish to be caught and delivered to the Community Center. Once a bundle is complete, you will receive a reward that can be very helpful in your farming and fishing endeavors.
Keep in mind that some fish can only be caught during certain seasons or times of day. Make sure to check the conditions for each fish before attempting to catch it. Some fish can also only be caught in specific locations, so make sure to explore different areas and use different bait and tackle to increase your chances of catching all the required fish for the bundles.
Once all bundles in a specific area are complete, the area will be fully restored, making it more beautiful and lively. Additionally, completing all bundles in the game will unlock a special reward. So get to fishing and start completing those bundles!
Pro tip: Use crab pots to catch some of the required fish for the Ocean Fish Bundle. Place them in the ocean and come back a few days later to collect the fish that have been trapped. This can save you a lot of time and effort in catching those elusive ocean fish!
The Benefits of Using the Best Fishing Rod in Stardew Valley
Increased catch rate: With the best fishing rod in Stardew Valley, you’ll have a higher chance of catching rare fish and items. This is because the iridium rod has a higher chance of catching fish, treasure, and other items compared to the other rods.
Ability to catch legendary fish: Legendary fish are rare, difficult to catch, and offer unique rewards. The best fishing rod in Stardew Valley allows you to catch these legendary fish. However, you need to be at the right location, use the right bait, and have the right fishing level.
Improved fishing experience: Using the best fishing rod in Stardew Valley enhances the fishing experience. You can catch more fish in less time and progress faster. Additionally, the iridium rod makes fishing more enjoyable since you won’t have to struggle as much to catch fish.
Higher quality fish: The iridium rod can catch higher quality fish, which are more valuable and better for cooking. As a result, you can earn more money and improve your relationships with the villagers by gifting them high-quality fish dishes.
Catch fish more easily
Upgrade your fishing rod to catch rare fish
Upgrading your fishing rod can make catching rare fish much easier. The better your fishing rod, the higher the chance of catching rare fish. With a better fishing rod, you’ll be able to cast your line further out into the water and have more control over the fish you catch. The Iridium Rod, the best fishing rod in Stardew Valley, is especially useful for catching rare fish.Use bait and tackle
Using bait and tackle can significantly increase your chances of catching fish. Bait can be bought from Willy’s shop or crafted using bug meat. Tackle can also be bought from Willy’s shop or found in treasure chests. Tackle can give you various bonuses, such as making your line less likely to break or increasing the likelihood of catching rare fish. Using both bait and tackle together can make a big difference in your fishing success.Catch higher quality fish
Using the best fishing rod in Stardew Valley can help you catch higher quality fish, which can sell for more gold and earn you more points in fishing contests. The Iridium Rod, in particular, allows you to catch the rarest and most valuable fish in the game.
Higher quality fish also have more benefits when used in cooking recipes, such as providing more energy and health or increasing the value of the dish. You can even use them to create artisan goods, like caviar, which can sell for a high price.
Additionally, some of the rarest and most valuable fish can only be caught during specific seasons and times of day, so having the best fishing rod can increase your chances of catching them and completing your collection.
Increase chances of catching rare fish
Use bait: Bait can be purchased from Willy’s shop, crafted from bug meat, or received as a reward for completing certain quests. Bait increases the chances of catching a fish by decreasing the delay time between catches.
Use tackle: Tackle can be purchased from Willy’s shop or crafted from various materials. Each tackle has a unique effect, such as increasing the size of the green bar or reducing the rate at which fish escape. Using the right tackle can significantly increase your chances of catching rare fish.
Choose the right location: Different fish can be caught in different locations, and some rare fish can only be caught in specific areas. Do your research and find out where the fish you want to catch can be found.
Fish in the right season: Some fish can only be caught during specific seasons, so make sure you’re fishing at the right time. For example, the octopus can only be caught in the ocean during fall.
Frequently Asked Questions About Fishing Rods in Stardew Valley
Q: Can I catch all fish with the beginner fishing rod?
A: Yes, you can catch all fish with the beginner fishing rod, but it may be more difficult to catch rare and high-quality fish.
Q: When should I upgrade my fishing rod?
A: It is recommended to upgrade your fishing rod as soon as possible to make fishing easier and more profitable.
Q: Where can I buy a better fishing rod?
A: You can buy a better fishing rod from Willy’s fish shop in Pelican Town.
Q: Can I catch legendary fish with the iridium rod?
A: Yes, with the iridium rod, you have the best chance of catching legendary fish.
Can fishing rods break?
Yes, fishing rods can break in Stardew Valley. Each cast has a chance to decrease the durability of your fishing rod, and if it reaches 0, the rod will break.
You can repair your fishing rod by visiting Willy’s shop or using a Repair Kit. Alternatively, you can also craft a new fishing rod if you have the necessary resources.
To prevent your fishing rod from breaking too quickly, try to avoid casting in areas with a lot of rocks or weeds, as they can decrease the durability faster.
What is the best fishing rod in Stardew Valley?
The best fishing rod in Stardew Valley is the Iridium Rod, which can be obtained by upgrading the Fiberglass Rod. It is the most advanced and expensive fishing rod, but it has many benefits, such as increased casting distance, a larger tackle box, and a chance to catch two fish at once.
Other fishing rods available in the game include the Bamboo Pole, Fiberglass Rod, and the Training Rod, but they are not as effective as the Iridium Rod.
Players can also add enchanted bait and tackle to their fishing rod to further improve their chances of catching high-quality fish. The Spinner and Trap Bobber are two examples of tackle that can be used with the Iridium Rod to increase the chances of catching rare fish.
How do I increase my fishing skill level?
To increase your fishing skill level, you need to spend time fishing in Stardew Valley. Catching fish will give you experience points that will help you level up your fishing skill.
Another way to increase your fishing skill level is by completing fishing-related quests and challenges. These can be found in the bulletin board outside Pierre’s General Store or in the “Help Wanted” section of the newspaper.
You can also purchase fishing-related items such as bait and tackle that will make it easier to catch fish and increase your chances of catching higher quality and rare fish.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best fishing rod in Stardew Valley?
There are several fishing rods in Stardew Valley, but some are better than others. The best fishing rod is the Iridium Rod, which can be obtained by crafting it or purchasing it from Willy’s shop.
How can I obtain the Iridium Rod?
There are two ways to obtain the Iridium Rod in Stardew Valley. You can either craft it using the Crafting menu or purchase it from Willy’s shop for 7500g once you have achieved Fishing Level 6.
What materials are needed to craft the Iridium Rod?
The Iridium Rod can be crafted using five different items: 5 Iridium Bars, 1 Battery Pack, 1 Fishing Tackle, 1 Lure, and 1 Trap Bobber. You can find Iridium Ore in the Skull Cavern or purchase it from the traveling cart.
What are the benefits of using the Iridium Rod?
The Iridium Rod is the best fishing rod in Stardew Valley, with several benefits. It increases your chances of catching fish, increases the quality of fish you catch, and allows you to catch rare fish more easily. It also allows you to use bait and tackle simultaneously.
How can I increase my Fishing level in Stardew Valley?
You can increase your Fishing level in Stardew Valley by catching fish, completing fishing quests, and participating in fishing events. The higher your Fishing level, the better fish you can catch and the more access you have to fishing-related crafting items and recipes.
What other fishing rods are available in Stardew Valley?
In addition to the Iridium Rod, there are four other fishing rods available in Stardew Valley: the Bamboo Pole, the Fiberglass Rod, the Old Reliable, and the Neptune’s Glaive. Each rod has its own specifications and benefits, but none of them match the capabilities of the Iridium Rod.