What Water Pokémon Can Learn Fly? Your Comprehensive Guide
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So, you’re diving into the wonderful world of Pokémon and trying to create the ultimate team, complete with practical HMs (Hidden Machines) like Fly. You’re particularly fond of Water-types, but finding one that can soar through the skies seems like a tall order. The answer isn’t as straightforward as you might think.
The truth is, very few pure Water-type Pokémon can naturally learn the move Fly. Instead, the ability to learn the move Fly is typically associated with dual-type Pokémon that combine the Water-type with the Flying-type. There are a few exceptions to this rule.
Let’s break down the key players and explore why this combination is both rare and strategically significant.
Water/Flying-Type Pokémon That Can Learn Fly
These are the Pokémon that genuinely fulfill both criteria – they are Water-type and can learn the move Fly:
- Pelipper: This dual-type Water/Flying Pokémon is a reliable choice. With its decent defensive stats and the ability to learn Fly, it’s a practical addition to any team needing aerial transport.
- Mantine: Another Water/Flying type, Mantine possesses strong special defense and can learn Fly, making it a solid special wall with the added utility of flight.
- Swanna: Found in the Unova region, Swanna, a Water/Flying-type Pokemon, is capable of learning the Fly move.
The Exception to the Rule: Smeargle
There’s one incredibly unique Pokémon that can bypass the typical type restrictions. Smeargle, the Painter Pokémon, can learn any move in the game via its signature move, Sketch. This includes Fly. While not technically a Water-type, Smeargle offers the possibility of having a Pokémon that knows Fly alongside other vital Water-type moves if you so choose. This offers trainers strategic flexibility in building their teams.
Why This Combination Matters
The ability to teach a Water-type Pokémon Fly is valuable for several reasons:
- Type Coverage: Fly provides excellent Type Coverage, allowing your team to deal with Pokémon that Water-type moves struggle against, like Grass, Electric, and Dragon types.
- HM Utility: In older Pokémon games, Fly was an essential HM for quick travel between towns. Having a Water-type that can use it frees up a slot on another Pokémon.
- Strategic Advantage: A Water/Flying Pokémon can be a potent offensive threat, exploiting weaknesses in both types.
FAQs: Deep Diving into Water-Types and Flight
Here are some frequently asked questions about Water Pokémon and their relationship with the Fly move:
Can Gyarados Learn Fly?
No, Gyarados cannot learn Fly, despite being a Water/Flying type. This is a common point of confusion, as its design strongly suggests flight capability. Think of it more like a “flying fish” – it can glide, but not truly sustain flight in the way that Pelipper or Swanna can.
Is There a Water/Dragon-Type Pokémon That Can Learn Fly?
There isn’t a Pokémon that is Water and Dragon type that can learn Fly. The move Fly is usually limited to Pokémon with wings or some sort of innate flying ability, which usually involves the Flying-type. Dracovish is Water/Dragon, but cannot learn Fly.
Can Kingler/Krabby Learn Fly?
No, neither Krabby nor Kingler can learn Fly. This is despite the article you had being inaccurate with a Krabby/Kingler section.
Can Lapras Learn Fly?
No, Lapras cannot learn Fly. This gentle giant is purely a Water/Ice type, focusing on powerful water and ice moves, rather than aerial combat.
Why Can Some Pokémon Learn Fly Even if They Don’t Look Like They Can?
The ability to learn Fly isn’t always about physical appearance. Some Pokémon may have hidden wings, powerful levitation abilities, or use psychic powers to achieve flight. The Pokémon world is full of surprises!
Is There a Pokémon That Can Learn Every HM?
While no single Pokémon can learn every HM across all generations, some are exceptionally versatile. In certain games, Pokémon like Bibarel can learn a wide range of HMs, freeing up other team slots. However, even Bibarel can’t learn Fly.
What Are the Best Non-Water-Types That Can Learn Fly?
Many powerful Flying-type Pokémon excel at using Fly, including Charizard, Dragonite, and Salamence. These Pokémon offer high attack stats and diverse movepools, making them formidable in battle. Pidgeot is also a fantastic choice, known for its high speed.
Can Legendaries Learn Fly?
Yes, many Legendary Pokémon can learn Fly, often playing crucial roles in the game’s storyline. Examples include Articuno, Zapdos, Moltres, and Rayquaza.
What is the Strongest Water-Type Pokémon Overall?
The title of “strongest” can depend on the specific metagame, but Primal Kyogre is widely considered one of the most powerful Water-types due to its high Special Attack and Drizzle ability.
Does Mega Evolution Affect a Pokémon’s Ability to Learn Fly?
Mega Evolution doesn’t change a Pokémon’s ability to learn Fly, but it can significantly boost its stats, making it a more effective user of the move. For example, Mega Pidgeot becomes an incredibly fast and powerful Flying-type attacker.
Why Can’t My Favorite Water Pokémon Learn Fly?
Move compatibility in Pokémon is often based on a combination of factors, including the Pokémon’s design, lore, and strategic balance. Sometimes, a Pokémon simply isn’t coded to learn a particular move, even if it seems like it should.
Where Can I Find a List of All Pokémon and Their Movepools?
Websites like Serebii.net and Bulbapedia are excellent resources for detailed information on Pokémon stats, movepools, and abilities. These sites are regularly updated with the latest information.
Can I Use Fly in Competitive Pokémon Battles?
Yes, Fly can be used in competitive battles, but it’s not always the best choice. The move has a two-turn charge time, giving your opponent a chance to switch out or set up a counter. However, it can be effective in certain situations, especially with Pokémon that have abilities that synergize with charging moves.
What Other HMs Are Commonly Used With Water-Type Pokémon?
Besides Fly, other HMs like Surf, Waterfall, and Dive are commonly associated with Water-type Pokémon, making them essential for navigating the Pokémon world.
How Does the Games Learning Society Relate to Pokémon?
The Games Learning Society explores how video games can be used for educational purposes. Pokémon, with its complex strategies, type matchups, and vast world, provides a rich environment for learning problem-solving, critical thinking, and even basic biology. For more information visit GamesLearningSociety.org.
Conclusion: Choose Your Flying Water-Type Wisely
While the list of Water-type Pokémon that can learn Fly is short, the strategic benefits are significant. Whether you choose Pelipper, Mantine, or opt for the creative freedom of Smeargle, having a Water-type that can take to the skies can give you a decisive edge in your Pokémon adventures. Remember to carefully consider your team composition, strategic goals, and the specific mechanics of the game you’re playing. Happy flying!