
Fishing is one of the most popular activities in Animal Crossing, and it’s a great way to earn money, collect new fish, and complete your Critterpedia. However, fishing can be a bit tricky, especially if you’re new to the game. Here are a few tips to help you catch fish in Animal Crossing, and reel in that perfect catch!
The first step is to find a good fishing spot. The best places to fish are in rivers, ponds, and oceans, but you can also fish in some other bodies of water, such as waterfalls and fountains. Once you’ve found a good spot, equip your fishing rod and cast your line. You can either cast your line directly into the water, or you can use the A button to aim your cast. Once your line is in the water, be patient and wait for a fish to bite. You’ll know when a fish has bitten your line when you see a small ripple in the water. When you see a ripple, press the A button to reel in the fish. Be careful not to reel in the fish too quickly, or you’ll scare it away.
Once you’ve reeled in the fish, you can either sell it to Tom Nook, or you can keep it in your aquarium. If you keep the fish in your aquarium, you can use it to decorate your house, or you can give it to Blathers at the museum. Blathers will add the fish to the museum’s collection, and he’ll give you a reward for donating it. Fishing is a great way to earn money, collect new fish, and complete your Critterpedia. With a little practice, you’ll be reeling in fish like a pro in no time!

Cast Your Line in the Right Place
Timing is everything: Fish are more likely to bite during certain times of the day, which vary depending on the type of fish. For example, sea bass are most active during the morning and evening, while tuna can be caught throughout the day. To find out the best time to catch a specific fish, consult the “Fish” section of the Nookipedia in-game encyclopedia.
Location matters: Different fish species inhabit different bodies of water. For instance, sea bass are found in the ocean and rivers, while pond smelt can be caught in ponds and lakes. Explore the various waterways on your island and pay attention to the shadows in the water, as these indicate the presence of fish.
Use the right bait: Certain types of bait are more effective for catching specific fish. For example, sea bass prefer clams, while tuna are attracted to fish bait. You can purchase bait from Nook’s Cranny or craft your own using manila clams or other ingredients found on the beach.
Be patient: Fishing can be a waiting game. Don’t get discouraged if you don’t catch anything right away. Keep casting your line and adjusting your location and bait as needed. With a little persistence, you’ll eventually reel in a variety of fish.
Use the Correct Bait
The type of bait you use will greatly affect the types of fish you can catch. For example, if you are looking to catch a sea bass, you will need to use bait that can be found in the ocean, such as clams or mussels. If you are unsure of what type of bait to use, you can check the fish encyclopedia in the game, which will provide you with information on what bait to use for each type of fish.
Here is a table summarising the different types of bait and the fish that they can be used to catch:
Bait |
Fish |
Clams |
Sea bass, flounder, red snapper, turbot |
Mussels |
Sea bass, flounder, red snapper, turbot |
Worms |
Black bass, bluegill, carp, catfish, perch, rainbow trout |
Crickets |
Black bass, bluegill, carp, catfish, perch, rainbow trout |
Grasshoppers |
Black bass, bluegill, carp, catfish, perch, rainbow trout |
Honey |
Bass, perch, bluegill, catfish, carp |
Be Patient and Wait
Fishing in Animal Crossing requires patience. Don’t get discouraged if you don’t catch anything right away. Just keep casting your line and reeling it in until you’re successful. You can also try changing up your bait or fishing spots to see if that helps.
Use the Right Bait
Animal Crossing has a different fishing bait system than other games. Bait is used to attract specific fish, so it’s important to use the correct bait for the fish you’re trying to catch. Luckily, it’s not difficult to find the right bait. You can purchase it at Nook’s Cranny or craft it yourself using bugs and other items.
Fish |
Bait |
Sea bass |
Fish bait |
Red snapper |
Fish bait |
Tuna |
Fish bait |
Goldfish |
Fish bait |
Betta |
Fish bait |
Go to the Right Place
Some fish can be found anywhere, while others are only available in specific locations. For example, Tuna can only be found in the ocean, while Betta can only be found in freshwater ponds. If you’re having trouble catching a particular fish, try fishing in a different location.
Don’t Scare the Fish
Fish are easily spooked in Animal Crossing. If you make any sudden movements or get too close, they will dart away. To avoid scaring fish, follow these tips:
1. Approach Slowly and Quietly
Walk slowly towards the fish, taking care not to make any sudden movements. You can also crouch by pressing the “A” button to reduce your profile and make it easier to approach the fish.
2. Use Stealthy Tools
Use the fishing rod’s “Sneak” feature by holding down the “R” button while casting. This will reduce the noise and vibration of your cast, making it less likely to scare the fish.
3. Avoid Shadows
Fish can see your shadow moving above them, so it’s important to avoid casting a shadow on the water. If you’re having trouble, try casting from behind a rock or tree to block your shadow.
4. Master the “Bubble Maneuver”
The “bubble maneuver” is a technique that can help you catch fish that are particularly skittish. To perform the maneuver:
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Approach the fish slowly and quietly, then stop about three body lengths away.
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Equip the “Fish Bait” item and use it to create a bubble over the fish.
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Wait for the fish to calm down and swim into the bubble. Once it’s inside, quickly cast your line and reel it in.
Fish Bait Type |
Effect |
Digging Spot Bait |
Attracts common and uncommon fish. |
Fish Food Bait |
Attracts rare fish. |
Manila Clam Bait |
Attracts all fish types. |
Use the Right Technique
Depending on the fish you’re after, you’ll need to use different techniques to successfully catch it. Here are a few tips for using the right technique for the fish you want:
Target Smaller Fish with Your Line Out
For smaller fish, casting your line out into the water and waiting for a bite is often the best approach. Fish like the bitterling, crucian carp, and pale chub are all easy to catch with this technique.
Use Bait to Attract Larger Fish
For larger fish, using bait can be helpful in attracting them to your line. Fish like the black bass, bluegill, and carp can all be caught using bait.
Move Around to Find Fish
Fish are not always stationary, so it’s important to move around and find them. Fish often congregate around structures in the water, such as rocks, bridges, and docks. Casting your line near these areas can increase your chances of catching a fish.
Use Different Lures for Different Species
Different fish species are attracted to different types of lures. For example, bass are often attracted to crankbaits and spinnerbaits, while trout are attracted to flies and lures that mimic insects.
Be Patient
Catching fish in Animal Crossing requires patience. Don’t get discouraged if you don’t catch a fish right away. Keep casting your line out and trying different techniques until you’re successful.
Upgrade Your Fishing Rod
The first and most important step to catching fish on Animal Crossing is to upgrade your fishing rod. There are three different types of fishing rods available in the game: the standard rod, the better rod, and the golden rod.
The standard rod is the most basic type of fishing rod and can be purchased from Tom Nook’s store for 500 Bells. The better rod is a more powerful version of the standard rod and can be purchased from Tom Nook’s store for 1,500 Bells. The golden rod is the most powerful type of fishing rod and can be obtained by catching a large fish or by winning a fishing tournament.
Each type of fishing rod has different stats that affect how well it performs. The standard rod has a power of 1, the better rod has a power of 2, and the golden rod has a power of 3. The power of a fishing rod determines how far you can cast your line and how much line you can reel in.
Fishing Rod |
Power |
Price |
Standard Rod |
1 |
500 Bells |
Better Rod |
2 |
1,500 Bells |
Golden Rod |
3 |
Obtained by catching a large fish or winning a fishing tournament |
In addition to power, each type of fishing rod also has a different durability. The standard rod has a durability of 10, the better rod has a durability of 20, and the golden rod has a durability of 30. The durability of a fishing rod determines how many times you can use it before it breaks.
Find Rare Fish Types
Fishing in Animal Crossing is a fun and rewarding experience that can net you some rare and valuable fish. Here are a few tips on how to catch rare fish in Animal Crossing:
1. Use the Right Bait
Different fish are attracted to different types of bait. For example, the Stringfish is only caught using Fish Bait. You can purchase bait from Nook’s Cranny or craft it yourself using clams.
2. Fish at the Right Time of Day
Some fish are only available to catch during certain times of the day. For example, the Coelacanth can only be caught between 4 PM and 9 AM. You can check the fish encyclopedia in your NookPhone to see the specific times of day that each fish is available.
3. Fish in the Right Location
Different fish can be found in different locations. For example, the Tuna can only be found in the ocean, while the Pond Smelt can only be found in ponds.
4. Be Patient
Catching rare fish takes time and patience. Don’t get discouraged if you don’t catch a rare fish right away. Just keep fishing, and eventually you’ll be rewarded with a valuable catch.
5. Use a Fish Net
A fish net can be used to catch multiple fish at once. This can be helpful when trying to catch rare fish, as you’ll have a better chance of catching one. You can purchase a fish net from Nook’s Cranny or craft it yourself using wood.
6. Sell Your Fish to CJ
CJ is a traveling fish collector who will pay you a higher price for rare fish. He visits your island once a week, so be sure to stock up on rare fish to sell to him.
7. Fishing Tournaments
Fishing tournaments are held on your island every Saturday. These tournaments are a great way to catch rare fish, as you’ll be competing against other players to catch the biggest and most valuable fish. The top three players in each tournament will win prizes, including rare fish.
Tournament Rank |
Prize |
1st |
Golden Rod |
2nd |
Silver Rod |
3rd |
Bronze Rod |
Sell Your Fish for Profit
Selling your fish in Animal Crossing: New Horizons can be a great way to earn some extra Bells. Here are a few tips for getting the most out of your fish sales:
Check the Nook’s Cranny Prices
The price of fish varies depending on the time of day, day of the week, and even the weather. Be sure to check the prices at Nook’s Cranny before you sell your fish to make sure you’re getting the best possible deal.
Sell Your Fish to CJ
CJ is a special character who appears on your island once per week. He will buy your fish for a higher price than Nook’s Cranny, so it’s worth waiting for him to show up if you can.
Use Fish Bait to Catch More Valuable Fish
Fish bait can be used to attract more valuable fish, which can sell for a higher price. You can craft fish bait using clams or purchase it from the Nook Stop.
Don’t Sell Your Fish to Flick
Flick is a special character who appears on your island once per week. He will buy your bugs for a higher price than Nook’s Cranny, but he does not buy fish.
Sell Your Fish in Bulk
You can sell multiple fish to Nook’s Cranny or CJ at once. This can save you time and effort, and it can also help you get a better price for your fish.
Use the Fish Encyclopedia to Track Your Catches
The Fish Encyclopedia in your NookPhone can help you track the fish you’ve caught and see how much they sell for. This can be helpful for planning your fish sales and maximizing your profits.
Don’t Forget to Donate to the Museum
Donating fish to the museum is a great way to complete your collection and earn rewards. However, once you’ve donated a fish, you can’t sell it again. So, be sure to sell any fish you don’t want to donate before you give them to Blathers.
Fish |
Price (Nook’s Cranny) |
Price (CJ) |
Sea bass |
500 Bells |
750 Bells |
Tuna |
700 Bells |
1050 Bells |
Sturgeon |
1000 Bells |
1500 Bells |
Complete Fishing Tournaments
Fishing tournaments are a great way to earn some extra Bells and items in Animal Crossing. To participate in a tournament, head to the pier on the day of the event and talk to CJ. He’ll give you a fishing rod and a bucket. Your goal is to catch as many fish as you can within the time limit. The player who catches the most fish will win the tournament and earn some great rewards.
Here are some tips for completing fishing tournaments:
- Use the right bait. Different fish are attracted to different types of bait. Experiment with different baits to see what works best for the fish you’re trying to catch.
- Cast your line in the right place. Fish are more likely to bite if you cast your line in the right spot. Look for areas where the water is moving or where there are bubbles.
- Be patient. Fishing takes time and patience. Don’t get discouraged if you don’t catch a fish right away. Keep casting your line and eventually you’ll be rewarded.
In addition to the tips above, here are some specific strategies for completing fishing tournaments:
- Target the right fish. Not all fish are created equal. Some fish are worth more Bells than others. Focus on catching the fish that are worth the most Bells.
- Use the right tools. The right tools can make a big difference in your success. Use a fishing rod with good stats and use bait that is effective for the fish you’re trying to catch.
- Be quick. Time is of the essence in fishing tournaments. Don’t spend too much time trying to catch each fish. Move quickly and efficiently to maximize your catch.
- Don’t be afraid to ask for help. If you’re struggling to catch fish, don’t be afraid to ask for help from other players. They may be able to give you some tips or help you out.
- Have fun. Fishing tournaments are supposed to be fun. Don’t get too stressed out about winning. Just relax and enjoy the experience.
Place |
Bells |
Item |
1st |
10,000 |
Golden Trout |
2nd |
5,000 |
Silver Trout |
3rd |
2,500 |
Bronze Trout |
By following these tips, you can increase your chances of winning fishing tournaments and earning some great rewards.
Learn from Other Anglers
One of the best ways to improve your fishing skills is to learn from others. There are many experienced anglers who are willing to share their tips and tricks. You can find these anglers on fishing forums, online communities, and even in your local fishing club. By asking questions and observing their techniques, you can quickly learn how to catch more fish.
1. Check the Fish Database
The Fish Database in Animal Crossing: New Horizons contains information on every fish species that can be caught. This information includes the time of day, location, and weather conditions that are most likely to yield a successful catch. By studying the Fish Database, you can significantly increase your chances of catching the fish you’re looking for.
2. Use Different Bait
Different fish species are attracted to different types of bait. For example, clams are effective for catching mussels and manila clams, while worms are better for catching black bass and bluegill. Experiment with different bait options to find what works best for the fish you’re targeting.
3. Cast Your Line in the Right Spot
The location of your cast can have a major impact on your success. Fish tend to congregate in areas where there is food and cover. Look for spots near underwater structures, such as rocks, logs, and jetties. These areas are likely to hold more fish than open water.
4. Be Patient
Fishing is a game of patience. It can take time to find the right spot, cast your line perfectly, and wait for a fish to bite. Don’t get discouraged if you don’t catch anything right away. Just keep practicing and you’ll eventually start to reel in the big ones.
5. Use the Right Fishing Rod
The type of fishing rod you use can also affect your success. There are different rods available for different types of fishing. For example, a shorter rod is better for fishing in close quarters, while a longer rod is better for casting long distances.
6. Upgrade Your Fishing Rod
As you progress in the game, you can upgrade your fishing rod to catch larger fish. Upgraded rods have increased durability and casting distance, which will allow you to catch fish that are otherwise unattainable.
7. Increase Your Fishing Skill
Your fishing skill level also affects your ability to catch fish. The higher your skill level, the easier it will be to reel in fish and the less likely you are to lose them.
8. Catch Fish on Rainy Days
Fish are more active on rainy days. This is because the rain creates a lot of movement in the water, which attracts fish. If you’re having trouble catching fish, try going out on a rainy day.
9. Use Fish Bait
Fish bait can be used to attract fish to your hook. There are different types of fish bait available, so experiment to find what works best for the fish you’re targeting.
10. Fish at Different Times of Day
Different fish species are active at different times of day. For example, some fish are more likely to bite at dawn or dusk, while others are more active during the day or night. Experiment with fishing at different times of day to find when the fish you’re targeting are most active.
How To Catch Fish On Animal Crossing
To catch fish in Animal Crossing, you will need a fishing rod. You can get a fishing rod from Tom Nook at the Resident Services building. Once you have a fishing rod, equip it by pressing the A button and selecting it from your inventory. Then, face a body of water and press the A button to cast your line. When a fish bites, the bobber will sink. Press the A button again to reel in the fish.
There are different types of fish that you can catch in Animal Crossing. The type of fish that you catch will depend on the time of day, the weather, and the location. For example, you are more likely to catch salmon in the morning and evening, and you are more likely to catch tuna in the ocean.
You can also use bait to attract fish. Bait can be purchased from Tom Nook or you can craft it yourself. To use bait, equip it by pressing the A button and selecting it from your inventory. Then, cast your line into the water and wait for a fish to bite. Bait will increase the chances of a fish biting, and it will also increase the size of the fish that you catch.
People Also Ask About How To Catch Fish On Animal Crossing
How do you catch a fish in Animal Crossing: New Horizons?
To catch a fish in Animal Crossing: New Horizons, you will need a fishing rod. You can get a fishing rod from Tom Nook at the Resident Services building. Once you have a fishing rod, equip it by pressing the A button and selecting it from your inventory. Then, face a body of water and press the A button to cast your line. When a fish bites, the bobber will sink. Press the A button again to reel in the fish.
What is the best way to catch a fish in Animal Crossing?
The best way to catch a fish in Animal Crossing is to use bait. Bait can be purchased from Tom Nook or you can craft it yourself. To use bait, equip it by pressing the A button and selecting it from your inventory. Then, cast your line into the water and wait for a fish to bite. Bait will increase the chances of a fish biting, and it will also increase the size of the fish that you catch.
What are the different types of fish in Animal Crossing?
There are over 80 different types of fish in Animal Crossing. The type of fish that you catch will depend on the time of day, the weather, and the location. For example, you are more likely to catch salmon in the morning and evening, and you are more likely to catch tuna in the ocean.