How to eel stardew valley

Overview

The elusive eel is a prized catch for many Stardew Valley farmers, not just for its sell price but also for its use in various recipes and quests. Knowing when and where to find these slippery creatures is key to successfully adding them to your inventory. This guide will break down the optimal conditions and locations for catching eels, ensuring you can reel them in with confidence.

Ocean Fishing for Eels

The most common and often most successful place to find eels is in the ocean. However, their appearance is time-sensitive and season-dependent.

When to Fish

Eels are strictly nocturnal creatures in Stardew Valley's ocean. You will only find them biting between the hours of 6 PM and 2 AM. Attempting to fish for them outside these hours in the ocean will be fruitless.

Which Seasons?

The ocean is only teeming with eels during two specific seasons: Spring and Fall. If you try to catch eels in the ocean during Summer or Winter, you won't find them. Plan your fishing trips accordingly.

Where in the Ocean

You can cast your line anywhere along the ocean shoreline. This includes the beach to the south of your farm, the pier, and even Willy's Fish Shop area. The key is being in the ocean biome during the correct time and season.

Secret Woods Eel Location

For those who have progressed further in the game and unlocked the Secret Woods, there's another reliable spot to catch eels, and it's available year-round and at any time of day.

Accessing the Secret Woods

The Secret Woods are located north of the Cindersap Forest (the area west of your farm). A large, broken log blocks the entrance. You will need a Steel Axe (or better) to break this log and gain access. Once cleared, the path remains open.

Fishing in the Secret Woods

Inside the Secret Woods, there is a small pond. Eels can be found fishing in this pond during any season and at any time of day. This makes the Secret Woods a fantastic backup or alternative location if you're struggling to find eels in the ocean or if it's not the right season/time.

Tips for Catching Eels

Eels are considered a 'night fish' and can be somewhat challenging to catch, especially for newer players. Here are some tips to improve your success rate:

• Fishing Level: The higher your fishing level, the easier it will be to catch any fish, including eels. Leveling up your fishing skill by catching more fish is crucial.
• Bait and Tackle: Using bait like Worm Chunks or Curiosity Bait can increase the bite rate. Specialized tackle, like the Trap Bobber (which slows the escape rate of fish) or Cork Bobber (which increases the fishing bar size), can make a significant difference.
• Food Buffs: Consuming food that provides a +Fishing buff, such as Dish o' The Sea or Fish Taco, can temporarily boost your fishing skill, making the catch easier.
• Patience: Like any fishing in Stardew Valley, patience is key. Don't get discouraged if you don't catch one immediately.

Eel Uses

Catching eels is rewarding due to their utility:

• Shipping: Eels can be sold for a decent profit. Their base price is 150g, going up with quality.
• Recipes: Eels are required for the Sashimi recipe (which can be made from any fish) and the more complex Maki Roll recipe.
• Quests: Eels are often requested for quests, particularly by characters like Willy or for the "Surprise" Letter from the Unknown, offering valuable rewards.
• Artisan Goods: Eels can be used in the Mayonnaise Machine to produce Mayonnaise.

By understanding the specific conditions and locations, you'll be well on your way to becoming an expert eel fisherman in Stardew Valley.