Stardew Valley is a vibrant farming simulator that invites players to experience the peaceful life of a farmer. However, there’s more to this picturesque world than just planting crops and raising animals. Fishing is a significant activity that offers a new dimension to your farming experience. One of the most elusive and rewarding catches is the eel. In this article, we’ll explore everything you need to know about catching eels in Stardew Valley, from the best techniques and locations to the best bait and equipment to use.
Understanding Eels: The Basics
Before diving into the specifics of how to successfully catch eels, let’s first familiarize ourselves with these slippery creatures.
What are Eels in Stardew Valley?
Eels are a type of fish that can be found in various water bodies throughout Stardew Valley. They are valuable not only for selling but also for completing certain bundles in the Community Center. Players can catch eels in the ocean and some other specific locations during particular times.
Types of Eels
In Stardew Valley, there are primarily two types of eels that players can catch:
- Regular Eel: This common eel is a versatile catch, prized for its use in cooking and crafting recipes.
- Radioactive Eel: This is a more unique variety that can be caught in more dangerous areas like the Sewers. It has distinct characteristics and can be used in specific crafting recipes.
The Best Fishing Locations for Eels
Finding the right spot is crucial for successful eel catching. Here are the key locations where you can find eels:
Ocean
The primary location for catching eels is the ocean, particularly during certain seasons and conditions:
- Spring: Eels are available from 4 PM to 2 AM.
- Summer: Like spring, eels can be found from 4 PM to 2 AM.
- Fall and Winter: Eels are not available during these seasons.
Sewers
If you’re feeling adventurous, you can also catch eels in the Sewers. The radioactive eel can be found here, making it a unique spot:
- Fishing Time: Available any time of day.
- Requirement: You must have gained access to the Sewers.
Optimal Times for Catching Eels
Timing is everything when it comes to fishing in Stardew Valley. Eels have specific active times, so be sure to plan your fishing excursions accordingly:
Seasonal Timing
As mentioned, eels are available during four months out of the year, specifically in the spring and summer.
General Fishing Time
Eels are most active during the following hours:
- From 4 PM to 2 AM in both spring and summer.
- For the radioactive eel, you can fish at any time during the day.
Essential Fishing Gear and Techniques
Equipping yourself with the right gear is paramount. Here are some key components to increase your chances of catching eels effectively:
Fishing Rods
Investing in the right fishing rod is important. Here are the rods you can use:
- Bamboo Pole: The basic rod available from the beginning. While it’s functional, it might not yield the best results for all fish types.
- Fiberglass Rod: Upgraded from the Bamboo Pole, this rod allows you to use bait and tackle, which can greatly improve your success rate.
- Iridium Rod: The best rod in the game, which enables the use of higher-quality bait and tackle. This is ideal for serious fishing endeavors.
Baits and Tackle
Using bait and tackle can enhance your fishing experience. Here are some options:
- Bait: Attaching bait to your rod increases the chances of catching fish. You can purchase bait from Willy’s Fish Shop or craft it yourself using bug meat.
- Tackle: Items like the Trap Bobber can help reduce the fish’s escape rate, making it easier to catch them. Combine these with the Iridium Rod for the best results.
Fishing: Techniques and Tips
Fishing in Stardew Valley requires a blend of patience and skill. Here are some techniques to embrace the fishing experience fully:
Timing Your Casts
Wait for the right moment to cast your line. You’ll want to position your character correctly and wait for fish to bite.
Reeling Technique
Once a fish bites, you’ll enter a mini-game where you need to keep the fish within the green bar. Follow these tips:
- Release the button: When the fish dives down, let go of the button so you don’t lose it.
- Reel in: As the fish comes close, reel in as the bar stabilizes. Timing is crucial here.
Cooking and Using Eels
Catching eels isn’t just about selling; they can be used in various delicious recipes too!
Recipes Featuring Eels
Eels can be utilized in several cooking recipes, enhancing your gaming experience:
- Maki Roll: A delicious dish that combines eel with rice and seaweed.
- Eel Soup: A healthy option that can restore health when consumed.
Bundles and Quests
Catching eels also contributes to specific bundles in the Community Center, making them essential for game progression. Completing these bundles can unlock rewards beneficial for farming and fishing alike.
Final Tips for Mastering Eel Fishing
To ensure you have the best experience catching eels in Stardew Valley, here are some additional tips:
Upgrade Your Skills
The higher your fishing skill, the easier it is to catch fish, including eels. Focus on leveling up your fishing abilities by practicing often and catching various fish.
Stay Patient and Persistent
Fishing can often require patience. If you don’t catch an eel right away, don’t get discouraged. Different factors may affect your fishing success – from time of day to the season.
Conclusion
Catching eels in Stardew Valley adds an exciting dimension to your farming adventures. From choosing the right fishing rods and bait to understanding optimal locations and timing, every detail matters in your quest for this slippery treasure. As you venture into the waters of Pelican Town, embrace the challenge, enjoy the serene environment, and reap the rewards of your hard work. Now you’re equipped to make the most out of your eel-catching endeavors, ensuring your farm thrives with the bounty of the ocean!
What bait should I use for catching eels in Stardew Valley?
The most effective bait for catching eels in Stardew Valley is the regular Bait, which increases your chances of getting a catch. You can craft bait using Fiber and Bug Meat. You should also consider using Wild Bait, which is a combination of regular Bait and an additional ingredient that makes it more effective. Combining the two types can lead to a better catch rate when you’re after eels.
Another option is to use a Squid Ink if you have access to it, as it can be used as bait and may increase your chances of catching rare fish. However, the regular Bait should suffice for most players looking to fill their fish collection or fish for cooking recipes. Be sure to check your inventory and prepare your bait beforehand for a successful fishing trip!
When is the best season to catch eels in Stardew Valley?
Eels can be found in Stardew Valley during the Spring and Fall seasons. They are available to catch from the 1st to the 28th of both seasons. If you want to maximize your fishing efficiency, it’s wise to focus on fishing during rainy days, as eels have a higher chance of appearing when it is raining. This is particularly useful for players who are trying to complete their fish collection quickly.
If you’re aiming for a specific eel type, such as the Legendary Fish, you will want to fish in the ocean during these seasons. Be sure to check the weather forecast in-game before heading out so that you can plan your fishing trips around the rainy days for the best results. Remember, the fishing times and weather can greatly affect your eel-catching success!
What location is best for catching eels?
The best location to catch eels in Stardew Valley is the ocean. Specifically, you should fish near the shoreline during Spring and Fall. Eels are more abundant when fishing from the beach, particularly at the pier area near Willy’s Fish Shop. This location has proven to yield a higher variety of fish, making it an excellent spot not only for eels but for many other ocean fish as well.
Additionally, fishing while standing on the pier can result in better catch rates. To further increase your chances, make sure to have the right fishing rod equipped that accommodates your fishing skill. Using a rod that allows for bait and tackle can ensure a greater yield and help streamline your fishing experience at this prime location.
What is the best time of day to catch eels?
Eels can be caught at any time of day in Stardew Valley, but they are most active during the evening and early morning hours. Specifically, these fish are available from 4 PM until 2 AM. During these hours, you have a higher chance of encountering eels, making it worthwhile to focus your fishing activities during these times for optimal results.
Additionally, while the day offers opportunities to catch various types of fish, concentrating on the evening can yield a better and more focused effort on catching eels. Plan your fishing trips accordingly so that you can maximize your fishing time and make the most of the hours when eels are biting.
Do I need any special equipment to catch eels?
Typically, no special equipment is required specifically for catching eels in Stardew Valley; however, having a good fishing rod and appropriate bait will significantly enhance your chances. Starting with a simple bamboo pole is sufficient, but upgrading to a better fishing rod, such as the Fiberglass Rod or the Iridium Rod, can provide you with the ability to use bait and tackle for better results.
Using tackle such as the Spinner or the Cork Bobber can also improve your fishing experience. The Spinner increases the catch rate, while the Cork Bobber extends your fishing bar, making it easier to land fish. Overall, while you can catch eels without special equipment, having the right rod, bait, and tackle will certainly make your fishing endeavors more successful.
What are the different types of eels in Stardew Valley?
In Stardew Valley, there are three different types of eels you can catch. The regular Eel is the most common type available during Spring and Fall. This fish can also be quite useful for cooking recipes or gifting, making it a versatile catch for players. Additionally, the Electric Eel can be found in the ocean during rainy days and is notable for its high sell price and the ability to be used in various crafting recipes.
The last type is the Moray Eel, which is a special variant that can offer a unique experience. It has a specific time frame and conditions for catching, making it a special target for avid fishers. Each type of eel provides different benefits, and knowing which one to fish for during each season can enhance your gameplay and ensure you’re maximizing the potential rewards from your fishing trips.
How do I cook eels in Stardew Valley?
Cooking eels in Stardew Valley is straightforward, and you can create a variety of dishes with them. The most common dish you can prepare is the “Maki Roll,” which requires one Eel and one Seaweed, along with a Cooked Rice. To cook, just head over to your kitchen where you have a stove, and interact with it to bring up the cooking menu. This dish is not only delicious but can also provide valuable health and energy benefits.
Another dish that utilizes the Eel is the “Eel Sushi,” which is well worth the effort due to its high energy restoration and health benefits. To make Eel Sushi, you will need Eel, Seaweed, and Cooked Rice as well. Keep in mind that cooking can require a bit of planning if you’re aiming to make multiple dishes, so ensure you have all your ingredients on hand and ready to go for a successful cooking session!
Can I sell eels, and how much are they worth?
Yes, you can sell eels in Stardew Valley, and they can fetch a good price depending on which type you catch. The regular Eel sells for 65 gold, which is a decent price for early-game players looking to earn some extra cash. You can also sell Electric Eels, which are more valuable at 110 gold. This makes them a much more lucrative catch if you manage to hook one.
The Moray Eel is even more valuable, selling for 110 gold as well but is often less commonly caught due to its specific fishing conditions. Players can maximize their profits by paying attention to the types of eels they catch and focusing on the more valuable variants during their fishing expeditions to keep the coins flowing in.