Fishing in Stardew Valley is one of the most rewarding yet challenging mechanics. Some fish are easy to catch and appear frequently, while others are rare and require specific conditions. The Catfish falls into the latter category—it’s a tough fish to catch, but it’s also an essential part of bundles and crafting recipes, making it highly sought after.
If you’re struggling to catch a Catfish or want to know its best uses, this guide will cover everything you need: where and when to catch it, how to increase your chances, and whether you should sell it or use it for bundles and recipes.
What is a Catfish in Stardew Valley?
The catfish is a freshwater fish known for its rarity and tricky behavior. Unlike some fish that appear in every season, the catfish has strict weather and seasonal requirements.
- Difficulty: 75 (moderately hard to catch)
- Behavior: Mixed (erratic but less extreme than Sturgeon)
- Sell Price:
- Normal: 200g
- Silver: 250g
- Gold: 300g
- Iridium: 400g
The Catfish is especially valuable early game, as it provides a good income source and is needed for several Community Center bundles.
Where to Catch Catfish in Stardew Valley
Unlike many fish, the catfish only spawns under specific seasonal and weather conditions.
Main Locations:
- River (Pelican Town and Cindersap Forest)
- Secret Woods Pond
- Witch’s Swamp
Conditions:
- Season: Spring and Fall (any rainy day)
- Time: 6 AM – 12 AM
- Weather: Rain only (cannot be caught on sunny days)
Additionally:
- In summer, catfish can only be caught in the Secret Woods Pond and Witch’s Swamp.
- In winter, it is only available via the Traveling Cart or by using a Rain Totem to force rain.
How to Increase Your Chances of Catching Catfish
Catching catfish can be frustrating due to their limited availability and fast movements. Here are some tips to make it easier:
Upgrade Your Fishing Rod
- Use at least the Fiberglass Rod (unlocked at Fishing Level 2).
- The Iridium Rod is best, as it allows both bait and tackle.
Use the Right Tackle
- Trap Bobber reduces fish escape speed, perfect for catfish.
- Cork Bobber increases your fishing bar size, giving more control.
Boost Fishing Skill
- Eat dishes like Dish o’ the Sea (+3 Fishing) or Fish Stew (+3 Fishing) before heading out.
Plan Around Rainy Days
- Stock up on Rain Totems to summon rain, ensuring you never miss a chance to catch catfish in spring or fall.
Uses of Catfish in Stardew Valley
The Catfish is more than just a rare catch—it has multiple important uses.
1. Community Center Bundles
- Required for the River Fish Bundle in the Fish Tank.
- Completing this bundle contributes toward restoring the Community Center.
2. Recipes
The catfish is used in cooking recipes like
- Fried Catfish (Catfish + Oil + Corn)
- Maki Roll (any fish + Seaweed + Rice)
- Sashimi (any fish)
3. Fish Pond
Catfish can be placed in a fish pond, where they reproduce and generate valuable items:
- Roe (processed into Aged Roe for profit)
- Random items like green algae, bug meat, and occasionally quality fertilizer.
4. Gifting
- Most villagers dislike catfish as a gift.
- However, Willy and Elliot are neutral toward it.
Profit Potential: Selling vs. Using Catfish
A common question players face is whether to sell catfish directly or use them for recipes and bundles.
- Selling Directly:
Iridium Catfish sells for 400g, which is decent early-game income.
- Cooking:
Dishes like fried catfish can restore large amounts of energy and health, making them excellent for mining or fishing trips.
- Fish Pond Production:
While not as profitable as Sturgeon or Lava Eel ponds, Catfish ponds provide consistent roe and occasional useful resources.
Best Strategies for Farming Catfish
- Prioritize Rainy Days in Spring and Fall
Fishing during rain should be a top priority if you want catfish early. - Carry a Rain Totem
In later years, always keep Rain Totems on hand to maximize Catfish availability. - Build a Fish Pond Early
This ensures a steady supply of catfish roe, which can be turned into aged roe for profit. - Use Food Buffs and Tackle
Combining Trap Bobber with a fishing skill boost makes Catfish much easier to reel in.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where can I find Catfish in Stardew Valley?
Catfish can be caught in rivers (Pelican Town & Cindersap Forest), Secret Woods Pond, and Witch’s Swamp, but only under specific rainy conditions.
Can you catch catfish in winter?
Normally, no. However, you can catch Catfish in winter by using a Rain Totem or purchasing it from the Traveling Cart.
Is catfish hard to catch?
Yes, Catfish has a difficulty rating of 75, making it challenging for beginners. Using bait, tackle, and fishing buffs helps significantly.
What is catfish used for?
Catfish is required for the River Fish Bundle and cooking recipes like Fried Catfish and can be raised in a Fish Pond.
Should I sell the Catfish or keep it?
If you’re early in the game, selling Catfish is a good way to earn gold. Later, it’s better to save them for bundles, recipes, or fish ponds.
Conclusion
The catfish in Stardew Valley is one of the more challenging fish to catch due to its strict seasonal and weather requirements. However, its importance in the River Fish Bundle, cooking recipes, and potential for profit through Fish Ponds make it a valuable catch.
By preparing properly with upgraded rods, bait, and tackle, and by taking advantage of rainy days (or Rain Totems), you’ll have a much easier time catching Catfish. Whether you decide to sell it for gold, cook it for energy, or farm it in a fish pond, the catfish is a rewarding addition to your fishing collection and a step toward completing your Community Center bundles.
So, the next time it rains in Pelican Town, grab your rod and head to the river—you might just reel in a catfish that will change your farm’s future.
