How Many Fish Can You Catch With a Fishing Rod in Animal Crossing?
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The number of fish you can catch with a fishing rod in Animal Crossing: New Horizons depends entirely on the type of rod you are using. The game features a variety of fishing rods, each with its own durability, meaning they break after a certain number of uses. So, let’s break it down:
The Flimsy Fishing Rod, which is the first rod you’ll obtain, will only last for about 7 to 10 catches before breaking. This can be frustrating early in the game, requiring frequent crafting of new ones. Once you upgrade to the standard Fishing Rod (and its color variations like the Colorful Fishing Rod), these will last for 30 catches. Finally, the coveted Golden Fishing Rod is the most durable rod in the game, and it will last for 200 catches before breaking. So in short:
- Flimsy Fishing Rod: 7-10 catches
- Fishing Rod (and Colorful Fishing Rod): 30 catches
- Golden Fishing Rod: 200 catches
It is important to remember, that any failed attempts where you are not able to catch the fish count towards the rod’s durability, so catching the fish can be considered optimal in each scenario.
Different Fishing Rods and Their Lifespans
Understanding the durability of each rod type is crucial for efficient fishing. Early in the game, players spend a lot of time crafting flimsy rods, which isn’t efficient.
The Flimsy Fishing Rod
As the starting tool, the Flimsy Fishing Rod is essential for the early game, but its extremely low durability means you’ll be spending a considerable amount of time crafting new ones. They are crafted using tree branches that are readily available from shaking the trees on the island. This rod is perfect for getting started, learning the ropes of fishing, and catching those first few important fish.
The Standard Fishing Rod (and Colorful Variants)
Once you have upgraded Nook’s Cranny, you can purchase the standard Fishing Rod and its variants for 2,500 Bells. These rods offer a significant increase in durability, lasting for 30 catches. This allows for more dedicated fishing sessions without needing to constantly stop to make new rods. The various color options available add a touch of personalization and fun.
The Golden Fishing Rod
The Golden Fishing Rod is the ultimate fishing tool in the game. With a lifespan of 200 catches, it will last far longer than any other. However, it’s not easy to obtain. You need to catch every fish in the game and complete the Fish section of your Critterpedia. This is a long-term goal that requires dedication and knowledge of where and when different fish appear. Once you achieve this, you will be rewarded with the DIY recipe for crafting the Golden Fishing Rod. The increased durability allows for extended periods of fishing, so players can try to catch the rarer and more valuable fish. Also, the golden rod, like the silver rod, will increase the time in which you can reel the line in and potentially attract fish more frequently.
Maximizing Your Fishing Efficiency
Beyond knowing the rod’s durability, there are a few things you can do to get more out of your fishing.
- Use Fish Bait: Craft fish bait using Manila Clams. This allows you to summon fish to a location so you can more quickly fish.
- Learn Fish Behavior: Knowing the time of the day, season, weather conditions, and location where fish are available will help greatly.
- Practice Timing: The timing of reeling in the fish is the most crucial aspect of the game. Practice and learn the patterns to minimize the chance of your line breaking.
- Upgrade your tools: By upgrading your fishing rod, you will get more durability each time you go fishing.
- Have Spare Materials: Carry extra materials to craft a new flimsy rod on the spot if you are not yet able to use the standard rods.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What happens when a fishing rod breaks?
When a fishing rod breaks, you’ll need to craft a new one (if it’s the flimsy rod) or buy a new one (if it’s the standard rod) at Nook’s Cranny. You’ll receive a visual cue that the rod is breaking. You cannot continue fishing without a replacement.
2. Does the color of the standard fishing rod affect its durability?
No, the color of the standard fishing rod is purely cosmetic. All standard rods, regardless of color, have a lifespan of 30 uses.
3. Can you repair a broken fishing rod?
No, in Animal Crossing: New Horizons, fishing rods cannot be repaired. Once they break, you need to craft or purchase a new one.
4. Is it worth getting the Golden Fishing Rod?
Absolutely. While obtaining it requires a lot of work, the Golden Fishing Rod’s 200-use lifespan makes it incredibly convenient and a long-term investment for a serious player who fishes a lot.
5. How do you get the DIY recipe for the Golden Fishing Rod?
You’ll receive the DIY recipe in the mail after completing the Fish section of your Critterpedia by catching all 80 fish species. Donation to the museum is not required.
6. What are the most profitable fish to catch?
Some of the most valuable fish include the Golden Trout, Stringfish, Dorado, Great White Shark, Barreleye, and Coelacanth, all selling for 15,000 Bells. The Whale Shark sells for 13,000 bells and Saw Shark sells for 12,000 Bells.
7. Are there fish that can only be caught during certain times of day?
Yes, many fish are specific to certain times of the day. For instance, the Golden Trout can be found in the river at the clifftop from 4 pm to 9 am. Some fish can only be caught during the night.
8. Does weather affect which fish I can catch?
Yes. The Coelacanth, for example, can only be caught when it is raining. Many fish will come out when it’s raining.
9. How can I quickly find fish?
Using fish bait is the quickest way to spawn a fish. Also, pay attention to the shadows of the fish in the water. Large shadows usually indicate rarer, more valuable species.
10. What is the rarest fish in Animal Crossing: New Horizons?
The Coelacanth is considered one of the rarest fish due to its dependence on rainy weather. Other notably rare fish include the Great White Shark, Golden Trout, Barreleye, and Ocean Sunfish.
11. What should I do with the fish I catch?
You can donate them to the museum, sell them for Bells, or even use them as decoration in your home.
12. Can I catch the Titanic in Animal Crossing?
Yes, you can catch the Titanic (Taitanikku) in Animal Crossing: New Horizons, but it is an item not a fish.
13. Do other tools break in Animal Crossing: New Horizons?
Yes, similar to the fishing rod, tools like axes, shovels, and watering cans also have durability and break after a certain number of uses. Ladders, Vaulting Poles, and Wands do not break.
14. What is the lowest selling fish in Animal Crossing?
The lowest-selling fish is the Tadpole, selling for only 100 Bells.
15. Are there any special fishing tips?
Listen carefully to the sound of the fish biting and watch the bobber. Be patient and time your button presses well. Using the fish bait is a fast way to encounter fish. Also, fishing in the ocean, rivers, and ponds can offer up different types of fish.
By understanding the different fishing rods, their durability, and how to maximize your fishing efforts, you’ll be well on your way to completing your Critterpedia and making the most out of your time in Animal Crossing: New Horizons. Happy Fishing!