The Catfish is a rare and challenging fish to catch in Stardew Valley. This guide provides all the necessary information to help you locate, catch, and profit from this elusive aquatic creature.
Catfish Overview
The Catfish is a freshwater fish known for its high difficulty and limited availability. Unlike many other fish, it is a specific seasonal catch that requires particular weather conditions. The base sell price for a Catfish is 200g, but like all fish, its value increases with a higher fishing skill and quality.
- Location: River (in Pelican Town and Cindersap Forest) and the Secret Woods pond.
- Season: Spring and Fall.
- Time of Day: Any time.
- Weather: Rainy days only.
How to Catch a Catfish 🎣
Catching a Catfish can be difficult due to its erratic movements on the fishing bar. Here are some tips to increase your chances:
- Fishing Rod: The Iridium Rod is highly recommended. It allows you to use bait and tackles, which are essential for catching high-difficulty fish like the Catfish.
- Bait: Always use Bait to increase the bite rate.
- Tackle: The Trap Bobber is the best tackle for the Catfish. It significantly slows down the speed at which the fish escapes when it’s not within your fishing bar, giving you more time to react. The Cork Bobber is a good alternative as it makes your fishing bar bigger.
- Fishing Skill: A higher fishing skill will increase the size of your fishing bar, making it easier to reel in difficult fish. You can level up your skill by catching any fish or by eating food with a fishing buff.
- Food Buffs: Eating a dish that boosts your fishing skill, such as a Dish o’ the Sea (+3 Fishing) or Trout Soup (+1 Fishing), can make a significant difference.
Uses and Profitability
The Catfish is a valuable catch with several important uses.
Bundles: It is a required item for the River Fish Bundle in the Community Center’s Fish Tank.
Cooking: It can be used in the following recipes:
- Maki Roll: Used as a fish ingredient.
- Sashimi: Can be used as a fish ingredient.
- Fish Stew: Used as a fish ingredient.
- Fish Tacos: Used as a fish ingredient.
Or check all the dehydrator recipies that we have covered.
Fish Pond: Catfish can be raised in a Fish Pond. The pond can hold up to 10 Catfish and will randomly produce Catfish Roe.
- Catfish Roe: Sells for 200g (base price).
- Aged Roe: Placing Catfish Roe into a Preserved Jar turns it into Aged Roe, which sells for 300g (base price).
Fish Pond Quests and Requirements
The Catfish is a profitable fish to raise in a Fish Pond, and completing its quests will increase the pond’s capacity and roe production.
- Initial Capacity: 1
- Quest 1 (3 Fish): Requires 3 Omni Geodes.
- Quest 2 (5 Fish): Requires 1 Catfish Roe.
- Quest 3 (7 Fish): Requires 1 Golden Relic.
- Quest 4 (10 Fish): Requires 1 Iridium Bar.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why can’t I catch a Catfish even though it’s raining?
The Catfish only appears on rainy days during the Spring and Fall. If you’re fishing in Summer or Winter, you will not find one. Also, make sure you are fishing in a river or the Secret Woods pond.
Is it worth it to put a Catfish in a Fish Pond?
Yes, Catfish are a good choice for a Fish Pond. They produce roe that can be aged into a valuable artisanal good, providing a steady passive income.
Does fishing in the Secret Woods increase my chances?
The Secret Woods pond has the same chance to spawn a Catfish as the rivers. However, since it is a smaller body of water, it may feel easier to get bites. It is a good location to try if you’re struggling to catch a Catfish in the river.
