How to Fish in Animal Crossing: New Horizons

How to Fish in Animal Crossing: New Horizons – Fishing is one of the most engaging and rewarding activities in Animal Crossing: New Horizons. Whether you’re looking to earn Bells, complete your museum collection, or just enjoy the calming sounds of the ocean, fishing is a must-have skill for every island resident. In this guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know about fishing in Animal Crossing: New Horizons, from crafting your fishing rod to catching rare fish.

Why Fishing is Important in New Horizons

Fishing is more than just a hobby in Animal Crossing: New Horizons. It plays a key role in several aspects of island life, including:

Earning Bells: Many fish can be sold for high prices, providing a consistent income.
Filling the Museum: Donate your catches to Blathers to build an impressive fish exhibit.
Seasonal Events: Certain fish are only available during specific times of the year, encouraging players to explore their island throughout all seasons.
Crafting Recipes: Some fish are used in crafting unique furniture and items.

Getting Started with Fishing in Animal Crossing

Before you can start fishing, you’ll need the proper tools and some basic knowledge. Here’s how to get started:

1. Crafting or Buying a Fishing Rod

Fishing rods are essential for catching fish, and you can either craft or buy one:

Crafting a Fishing Rod:

Use Tom Nook’s DIY Workbench or your own.
Materials: You’ll need 5 Tree Branches to make a flimsy fishing rod. Later, upgrade it using 1 Iron Nugget for a more durable version.

Buying a Fishing Rod:

Visit Nook’s Cranny to purchase a fishing rod for 400 Bells.

2. Understanding Fish Spawn Locations

Fish spawn in various water sources around your island:

Rivers: Found flowing across your island.
Ponds: Smaller, still bodies of water.
Sea: The ocean surrounding your island.
Clifftop Rivers: Higher-altitude water sources accessible via a ladder.
Mouth of the River: Where the river meets the sea, often home to unique fish.

Each location offers specific types of fish, so it’s worth exploring every area.

Fishing Basics in Animal Crossing

Now that you’ve got your fishing rod, it’s time to learn how to catch fish.

1. Spotting Fish Shadows

Fish in Animal Crossing: New Horizons are represented by shadows in the water. The size of the shadow indicates the type of fish. There are five general shadow sizes:

Tiny
Small
Medium
Large
Huge

2. Casting Your Line

To cast your line:

Equip your fishing rod.
Stand near the water and look for a shadow.
Press A to cast your line. Aim to land the bobber in front of the fish.

3. Waiting for a Bite

Once the bobber lands, wait for the fish to notice it. A fish may nibble a few times before committing. You’ll know it’s time to reel in when:

The bobber is pulled underwater.
You hear a distinct “plop” sound.
Press A quickly to catch the fish!

Seasonal Fishing and Rare Fish

Fishing in New Horizons is tied to the game’s real-time clock and calendar. Different fish appear depending on the:

Time of Day: Some fish only show up at night, while others prefer daytime.
Season: Fish availability changes with the seasons (spring, summer, fall, winter).
Weather: Certain fish are more likely to appear during rain.

Rare Fish to Look Out For

Here are a few rare fish to aim for:

Coelacanth:

Location: Sea
Conditions: Only during rain
Sell Price: 15,000 Bells

Stringfish:

Location: Clifftop rivers
Time: 4 PM – 9 AM
Season: December to March
Sell Price: 15,000 Bells

Golden Trout:

Location: Clifftop rivers
Time: 4 PM – 9 AM
Seasons: March to May, September to November
Sell Price: 15,000 Bells

Barreleye:

Location: Sea
Time: 9 PM – 4 AM
Sell Price: 15,000 Bells

Fishing Tips and Tricks

Here are some expert tips to improve your fishing game:

1. Use Fish Bait

Craft fish bait using Manila Clams, which can be dug up from beaches. Fish bait lets you spawn fish instantly, making it easier to catch rare species.

2. Visit Mystery Islands

Use Nook Miles Tickets to visit Mystery Islands. These often have different fish spawn rates and can be a great way to find rare species.

3. Fish During Events

Participate in the Fishing Tourney, hosted by C.J. on select Saturdays. You’ll earn points for each fish caught, which can be exchanged for exclusive items.

4. Be Patient

Fishing requires timing and patience. Don’t rush to press A—wait until the bobber goes underwater to avoid losing the fish.

What to Do with Your Catches

Once you’ve caught some fish, there are several options for what to do with them:

Donate to the Museum: Help Blathers complete the fish exhibit.
Sell for Bells: Take your fish to Nook’s Cranny for quick cash.
Trade with C.J.: When C.J. visits your island, he buys fish at 1.5x the regular price.
Decorate Your Home or Island: Use fish tanks to display your catches.

Fishing FAQs

Q: How do I know if I’ve caught every fish?
Check your Critterpedia. It logs every fish you’ve caught and even notes the times and seasons they’re available.

Q: Can I fish with friends?
Yes! Invite friends to your island or visit theirs. Fishing together can be a fun way to share the experience.

Q: What happens if I miss catching a fish?
If you miss, the fish will disappear. Don’t worry—another will spawn soon.

Fishing for Fun and Profit

Fishing in Animal Crossing: New Horizons is more than a mechanic—it’s an experience that embodies the game’s relaxing and rewarding vibe. Whether you’re angling for a rare catch, enjoying the peaceful waters, or earning Bells, fishing is an activity you’ll keep coming back to.

With this guide, you’re ready to cast your line, reel in success, and become a master angler on your island.