How to Catch Fish
Catching fish is a fundamental activity in Animal Crossing: New Horizons. It allows you to earn Bells, complete museum exhibits, and even create unique DIY recipes. If you’re new to the game or struggling to reel in those elusive fish, here are some tips to help you become a master angler.
1. Equip your fishing rod: You can find the fishing rod in the Nook’s Cranny shop or craft it using DIY recipes. Make sure it’s equipped before you start fishing.
2. Locate fish shadows: Look for areas where fish shadows are visible in the water. These shadows indicate the presence of fish, and you’ll need to cast your line near them.
3. Approach slowly: Fish are easily scared away, so approach the shadowed area slowly and quietly. If you run or make sudden movements, the fish will likely be scared off.
4. Cast your line: Stand near the edge of the water and press the ‘A’ button to cast your line. Aim for the fish shadow, but be careful not to cast too far or too short.
5. Wait for a bite: Once your line is in the water, be patient and wait for a fish to bite. You’ll notice your bobber moving under the water when a fish is interested in your bait.
6. Timing is key: Pay attention to the bobber’s movement. When it fully submerges, quickly press the ‘A’ button to reel in the fish. If you miss the timing, the fish will escape.
7. Watch out for fish behavior: Different fish species have unique behaviors. Some fish will bite immediately, while others may nibble for a bit before fully committing. Be prepared for different scenarios.
8. Experiment with bait and different fishing spots: Certain fish can be attracted using bait. Craft bait from manila clams and use it to lure fish to specific fishing spots. Additionally, try fishing from different locations to find a variety of fish.
Remember, practice makes perfect. The more you fish in Animal Crossing: New Horizons, the better you’ll get at it. So grab your fishing rod, head to the nearest body of water, and start reeling in those fish!
Understanding Fish Shadows
One of the essential aspects of fishing in Animal Crossing: New Horizons is understanding fish shadows. These shadows provide crucial information about the fish’s location and size, allowing you to maximize your chances of catching the right fish. Here’s what you need to know about fish shadows:
1. The Shape and Size: Fish shadows appear as elongated shapes in the water. The size of the shadow can give you a clue about the size of the fish. Larger shadows indicate bigger fish, while smaller shadows usually mean smaller fish. Keep this in mind when deciding which fish to pursue.
2. Movement Pattern: Pay attention to the movement pattern of fish shadows. Some fish will move in a straight line, while others may swim in circles or change direction abruptly. Observing their movement can help you determine the behavior of the fish and anticipate when it will bite.
3. Depth of the Shadow: The depth of the fish shadow can give you an indication of whether the fish is closer to the water’s surface or deeper down. Certain fish prefer specific depths, so adjusting your fishing strategy accordingly can increase your chances of success.
4. Time of Day and Location: The type of fish you encounter and the size of their shadows can vary depending on the time of day and the location. Some fish are only available during specific seasons, while others may only appear at certain times of the day. Explore different areas and try fishing at various times to encounter a diverse range of fish species.
5. Weather Conditions: Weather conditions, such as rain or snow, can also influence the types of fish you’ll find and the shadows they cast. Some fish prefer specific weather conditions, so keep an eye on the forecast and adjust your fishing plans accordingly.
6. Island Tours: If you’re looking for rare or exotic fish, consider participating in island tours. These tours take you to different islands, each with its own unique fish species. Exploring these islands can provide you with more opportunities to encounter rare and valuable fish shadows.
Understanding fish shadows is a valuable skill that will greatly enhance your fishing experience in Animal Crossing: New Horizons. By analyzing the shape, size, movement, and depth of fish shadows, along with considering factors like time of day, location, and weather conditions, you’ll be well on your way to becoming a successful angler. So grab your fishing rod and start deciphering those elusive fish shadows!
Fishing Techniques and Tips
Mastering the art of fishing in Animal Crossing: New Horizons requires not only understanding fish shadows but also employing effective fishing techniques. Here are some techniques and tips to improve your fishing skills:
1. Perfect Timing: Timing is everything when it comes to reeling in a fish. Pay close attention to the moment your bobber submerges underwater. Press the ‘A’ button immediately to catch the fish. It may take some practice, but with patience and precision, you’ll master the art of perfect timing.
2. Stay Patient: Fishing can sometimes require a lot of waiting. Don’t get discouraged if fish don’t bite right away. Be patient and wait for the opportune moment. The satisfaction of finally catching a fish after a patient wait makes it all the more rewarding.
3. Listen for Audio Cues: In addition to watching the bobber, listen for audio cues. When a fish approaches your bait, you’ll hear a distinct ‘plop’ sound. This can serve as an additional signal to set the hook at the right moment.
4. Use Headphones: To fully immerse yourself in the fishing experience, consider wearing headphones. The audio cues are more apparent, allowing you to react quickly and improve your chances of catching fish.
5. Upgrade Your Fishing Rod: As you progress in the game, consider upgrading your fishing rod. The upgraded rods, like the colorful fishing rod or the golden fishing rod, have a longer reach and increased durability. This allows you to cast farther and catch fish more efficiently.
6. Don’t Pull Too Early: Sometimes, fish will nibble before fully biting. It’s important to resist the urge to pull the line immediately. Wait until the bobber completely submerges before reeling in the fish. This ensures a higher chance of successfully catching it.
7. Experiment with Fishing Locations: Different fish can be found in various locations on your island. Explore rivers, ponds, and the ocean to discover a wide range of fish species. Visit different areas during different times of the day to increase your chances of encountering rare fish.
8. Stay Prepared: Always carry extra fishing rods and bait with you. Fishing rods can break unexpectedly, and bait can be invaluable in attracting specific fish to your chosen fishing spot. Being prepared ensures that you never miss out on a great fishing opportunity.
By employing these fishing techniques and tips, you’ll become an accomplished angler in no time. Remember to practice, have fun, and enjoy the serene and peaceful world of fishing in Animal Crossing: New Horizons.
Best Fishing Times
In Animal Crossing: New Horizons, certain fish species have specific time windows when they are more active and easier to catch. By fishing during the best times, you can increase your chances of encountering rare and valuable fish. Here are some tips on the best fishing times:
1. Morning and Evening: Many fish species are most active during the morning and evening hours. This is usually from 4 am to 9 am and from 4 pm to 9 pm. Take advantage of these time frames to try your luck at catching fish.
2. Night Fishing: Some fish, like the coelacanth, are exclusively found during nighttime hours. These elusive creatures only appear when it’s dark outside, so make sure to have your fishing rod ready during the late hours for a chance to catch rare fish.
3. Seasonal Variations: Different seasons bring about changes in fish availability. Pay attention to the seasons and the associated fish that appear during specific times of the year. For example, seasonal events like C.J.’s fishing tournaments can introduce special fish and provide opportunities to catch them.
4. Rainy Days: When it rains in the game, many fish become more active, making it an excellent time for fishing. Grab your raincoat and umbrella, head to the nearest body of water, and cast your line to catch some of the more elusive rainy day fish.
5. Moon Phases: Some players believe that certain fish species are more likely to appear during specific moon phases. While this is not scientifically proven, experimenting with fishing during different moon phases can add an extra layer of excitement and challenge.
6. Fishing Tourneys: Participating in fishing tourneys hosted by C.J. can provide unique opportunities to catch rare fish. These events typically have time limits, so make sure to plan your fishing strategy in advance to maximize your catch during the tournament.
7. Time Traveling: If you’re comfortable with time traveling, you can adjust the in-game clock to specific times to target certain fish species. This can be a controversial technique among players, so use it at your discretion.
Remember, fishing in Animal Crossing: New Horizons is meant to be a relaxing and enjoyable activity. While fishing during the best times can increase your chances of catching rare fish, don’t forget to appreciate the serene beauty of the game’s environments and the calming sound of water as you cast your line into the depths.
Fishing Equipment and Upgrades
Having the right fishing equipment is essential for maximizing your fishing success in Animal Crossing: New Horizons. Here’s a breakdown of the different tools and upgrades you can utilize to enhance your fishing experience:
1. Fishing Rod: The basic fishing rod is the starting point for all aspiring anglers. You can find it at the Nook’s Cranny shop or craft it using DIY recipes. This tool allows you to catch fish of various sizes and is essential for progressing in the game.
2. Upgraded Fishing Rods: As you advance in the game, you’ll have the opportunity to obtain upgraded fishing rods. The colorful fishing rod and the golden fishing rod are two notable upgrades. These rods have longer reaches, making it easier to cast your line to distant fish shadows.
3. Fishing Tackle: Fishing tackle is a valuable accessory that can be attached to the fishing rod. It offers various benefits, such as increasing the chances of a fish biting or making fish bites last longer. You can purchase fishing tackle from Nook’s Cranny or earn it as a reward during fishing tournaments.
4. Fishing Bait: Bait is a game-changer when it comes to fishing. Crafted using manila clams, bait can be used to attract fish to a specific fishing spot. By strategically placing bait in areas with desirable fish shadows, you’ll have a higher chance of encountering rare fish species.
5. Nook’s Cranny Upgrades: As you progress on your island, Nook’s Cranny will undergo upgrades. These upgrades expand the store’s inventory, providing you with a wider selection of fishing tools, including fishing rods, tackle, and bait. Check the shop regularly for new items and upgrades.
6. DIY Recipes: DIY recipes are essential for crafting fishing tools and upgrading your fishing equipment. Keep an eye out for DIY recipes in message bottles, from villagers, or in the game’s events. Collect the necessary materials and craft your own rods, tackle, and bait to ensure you’re always well-prepared for your fishing adventures.
7. Customization: Animal Crossing: New Horizons allows you to customize your fishing rods, making them unique to your character. Unlock different color options and designs to personalize your fishing equipment and showcase your fishing style to your fellow islanders.
Investing time and resources into obtaining and upgrading your fishing equipment will greatly improve your chances of catching rare and valuable fish. Explore different options, experiment with tackle and bait, and don’t forget to keep an eye out for special events and DIY recipes to further enhance your fishing setup. With the right equipment in hand, you’ll be ready to tackle any fishing challenge that comes your way!
Rare and Legendary Fish
Animal Crossing: New Horizons is home to a plethora of rare and legendary fish species that are highly coveted by collectors. Catching these unique fish can be a rewarding and exciting challenge. Here are some of the rare and legendary fish you can encounter:
1. Coelacanth: The coelacanth is one of the most sought-after fish in the game. It can only be found when it’s raining or snowing and appears exclusively in the ocean. Keep your fishing rod ready during rainy days or stormy weather to increase your chances of encountering this prehistoric fish.
2. Arapaima: Native to the rivers of the tropics, the arapaima is a large and rare fish. It can be found in the river during the summer months and has a distinctive size and shadow. Look out for its large and elongated silhouette to spot this elusive creature.
3. Mahi-Mahi: Sporting vibrant colors and a formidable size, the mahi-mahi can be found in the ocean. It appears during the months of May to October in the northern hemisphere and November to April in the southern hemisphere. Keep an eye out for its impressive dorsal fin when searching for this prized catch.
4. Golden Trout: The golden trout is a beautiful and rare fish that can be found in the higher elevated areas of your island. It’s typically found in rivers on cliffs or waterfalls. Use your ladder to access these elevated locations and keep an eye out for the shadow of this golden gem.
5. Stringfish: The stringfish is a large, elusive fish that can be found in the river during the winter months. It only appears between the hours of 4 pm to 9 am. Watch for its distinctive shadow and diligently fish during snowy days to increase your chances of capturing this rare fish.
6. Oarfish: The oarfish is a long and slender fish that can be found in the ocean. It appears in all seasons and at any time of the day, making it a relatively accessible rare fish. Keep an eye out for its unique shape and size while fishing in the ocean.
7. Giant Trevally: With its impressive size and strong fighting spirit, the giant trevally is an impressive catch. It appears in the ocean during the months of May to October in the northern hemisphere and November to April in the southern hemisphere. Look for its large shadow and prepare for an exciting battle.
These are just a few examples of the rare and legendary fish you can encounter in Animal Crossing: New Horizons. Keep in mind that fish availability is influenced by your island’s hemisphere and the current month. Stay vigilant, fish in the right locations, and be patient to increase your chances of capturing these prized specimens!
Selling and Trading Fish
In Animal Crossing: New Horizons, fish can be a valuable commodity as they can be sold for Bells or traded with other players. Here are some strategies for selling and trading fish:
1. Selling Fish for Bells: One of the main reasons to catch fish is to sell them for Bells. Each fish has its own value, and you can earn a substantial amount of Bells by selling rare or high-demand fish. Keep an eye on the current market prices at Nook’s Cranny, as they can fluctuate daily. Consider saving valuable fish to sell when the prices are higher to maximize your profits.
2. Fish Size and Rarity: The size and rarity of a fish directly impact its value. Larger and rarer fish tend to sell for more Bells. Therefore, aim to catch the biggest and most elusive fish to boost your income. These valuable catches can provide a significant boost to your in-game finances.
3. Fish for DIY Recipes: Some fish are essential ingredients for various DIY recipes. Instead of selling these fish, consider using them to craft items that you can either use for decoration or can be sold at a higher price. Experiment with different fish to unlock unique DIY recipes and add a touch of creativity to your island.
4. Trading with Other Players: Animal Crossing: New Horizons encourages a community-based experience, making fish trading with other players a popular activity. If you have rare fish that you are willing to trade, consider visiting online forums, social media groups, or joining in-game communities to find players interested in your fish. Trading allows you to not only diversify your fish collection but also build relationships with other players.
5. Participating in Fishing Tourneys: Fishing tourneys hosted by C.J. provide an opportunity for players to earn more than just Bells. By participating in these events, you can accumulate fishing points, which can be exchanged for exclusive fishing-themed items, including fish-related furniture or clothing items. Attend these tourneys to showcase your angling skills and acquire unique rewards.
6. Donating to the Museum: Another way to make use of your fish is to donate them to Blathers at the museum. This not only helps expand the museum’s collection but also allows you to access valuable information about each fish and view them in a beautifully curated exhibit. Consider donating at least one of each fish to fulfill Blathers’ desire for a comprehensive aquarium collection.
Whether you decide to sell your fish, trade them with others, or donate them to the museum, the value of fish goes beyond their monetary worth. They contribute to your island’s development, allow you to interact with other players, and provide a sense of accomplishment in completing your fish collection. So cast your line and reel in those fish to make the most of their potential!
Fish-Related DIY Recipes
In addition to catching and selling fish, another exciting aspect of fishing in Animal Crossing: New Horizons is using fish to create unique and charming DIY recipes. These fish-related DIY recipes allow you to craft various decorative items and furniture pieces. Here are some examples of fish-related DIY recipes:
1. Fish Model: The fish model DIY recipe enables you to create a lifelike replica of a fish to display in your home or on your island. Each fish model represents a specific fish species and adds a touch of realism to your collection.
2. Fish Ponds: With the fish pond DIY recipe, you can create small, tranquil ponds on your island and fill them with fish. This adds a serene and natural element to your landscape while providing a dedicated space to showcase and observe your favorite fish.
3. Fish Bait Box: The fish bait box DIY recipe allows you to craft a box that stores fish bait. Having fish bait readily available is convenient when you want to attract fish to specific fishing spots. Crafting this box ensures you’ll always be equipped for a successful fishing trip.
4. Fish Furniture: Multiple fish-related furniture items can be crafted using DIY recipes. Examples include fish-shaped chairs, fish rugs, fish doorplates, and fish wall decorations. Incorporating these items into your home decor adds a whimsical touch and showcases your passion for fishing.
5. Fish Fossil Display: The fish fossil display DIY recipe allows you to create a unique exhibit featuring fossilized fish. This adds an educational element to your museum and highlights the historical significance of these ancient creatures.
6. Fish Prints/Wallpaper: Fish prints and fish-inspired wallpaper can be created using DIY recipes. These items bring an aquatic theme to your walls, transforming any room into an underwater oasis. Adorn your walls with fish prints or cover them entirely with fish-themed wallpaper for a visually striking effect.
7. Fish-Inspired Clothing and Accessories: Fish DIY recipes are not limited to furniture and decor. You can also create fish-inspired clothing and accessories, such as hats, backpacks, or even fish-shaped backpacks. Dressing up in fish-themed attire adds a playful and distinctive element to your character’s style.
These are just a few examples of the fish-related DIY recipes available in Animal Crossing: New Horizons. Exploring different fish and unlocking these recipes not only enhances your creativity but also allows you to personalize your island and display your love of fishing in unique ways. So dive into the world of DIY crafting, unleash your imagination, and bring the beauty and charm of fish to every corner of your island!
