The Sturgeon is a valuable and sought-after fish in the popular farming RPG, Stardew Valley. Knowing where and when to find this elusive fish is crucial for completing quests, bundles, and earning a significant profit. This guide provides an in-depth, well-researched overview of everything you need to know about the Sturgeon, from its location and seasons to its uses and profitability.
Sturgeon Overview
The Sturgeon is a fish that can be found in the mountain lake . It’s known for being one of the more difficult fish to catch, with a high difficulty rating. The base sell price of a Sturgeon is 200g, but this can increase significantly with a higher fishing skill and the use of fishing buffs.
- Location: Mountain Lake (the large lake north of Robin’s house).
- Season: Summer and Winter.
- Time of Day: 6 AM to 7 PM.
- Weather: Any weather.
Catching Tips and Tricks
- Fishing Rod: Use the best rod you can afford. The Iridium Rod is recommended as it allows the use of bait and tackles, both of which are essential for catching high-difficulty fish.
- Bait: Always use Bait to increase your bite rate.
- Tackle: The Trap Bobber is highly recommended for catching the Sturgeon. It causes fish to escape more slowly, making it easier to keep the fish icon within the green bar. The Cork Bobber is another good option as it increases the size of your fishing bar.
- Fishing Skill: Your fishing skill level directly affects the size of your fishing bar and the speed at which you reel in the fish. Increase your skill by catching other fish, crabbing, or completing quests for Willy.
- Food Buffs: Eating a dish with a fishing buff, such as Fish Stew (+3 Fishing) or Trout Soup (+1 Fishing), can make catching the Sturgeon much easier.
Uses and Profitability
The Sturgeon has several key uses that make it a valuable catch.
Bundles: It is a required item for the Lake 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.
Artisan Goods: The Sturgeon is one of only three fish that can produce roe. Placing a Sturgeon in a Fish Pond will allow it to produce Sturgeon Roe.
- Sturgeon Roe: Sells for 200g (base price).
- Aged Roe (Caviar): Placing Sturgeon Roe into a Preserves Jar turns it into Aged Roe (also known as Caviar), which sells for 500g (base price). This is the most profitable use of a Sturgeon.
Fish Pond Quests and Requirements
The Sturgeon is one of the most profitable fish to raise in a Fish Pond. The pond can hold up to 10 Sturgeon.
- Initial Capacity: 1
- Quest 1 (3 Fish): Requires 1 Diamond.
- Quest 2 (5 Fish): Requires 1 Omni Geode.
- Quest 3 (7 Fish): Requires 1 Jellied Roe.
- Quest 4 (10 Fish): Requires 1 Nautilus Shell.
After these quests are completed, the pond will randomly produce Sturgeon Roe, which can be aged into Caviar for a significant profit.
Sebastian, another fan-favorite character with a compelling story arc, is one of Stardew Valley’s most beloved villagers. For everything you need to know about befriending, romancing, and understanding this reclusive loner, read on.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) 🙋
What’s the best time to catch a Sturgeon?
Sturgeon can be caught from 6 AM to 7 PM. The specific time of day doesn’t change your chances, but you can improve them by using a Trap Bobber and eating food with a fishing buff.
Is Sturgeon Roe or Caviar more profitable?
Caviar is significantly more profitable. While Sturgeon Roe sells for 200g, aging it in a Preserves Jar to create Caviar increases its value to 500g. It’s always best to age the roe for maximum profit.
Can I catch a Sturgeon in other locations?
No, the Sturgeon is exclusive to the mountain lake and cannot be caught in any other body of water.
Does the time of year affect my ability to catch a Sturgeon?
Yes, Sturgeon only appear during the Summer and Winter seasons. Trying to catch them during Spring or Fall will be fruitless.