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In the charming and idyllic world of Stardew Valley, there are few things more rewarding than casting a line into the shimmering waters of your very own fish pond. With a wide variety of fish species to choose from, each with its unique traits and benefits, selecting the best fish for your pond can be a daunting task. However, by carefully considering factors such as profitability, aesthetics, and special abilities, you can create a thriving fish pond that will provide you with both financial and aesthetic rewards.
Transitioning to the next paragraph, introducing the most profitable fish for fish ponds:
For the financially savvy farmer, choosing the most profitable fish for your pond is of paramount importance. With their impressive selling prices and fast growth rates, the Sturgeon and the Lava Eel stand out as the clear frontrunners. The Sturgeon commands a hefty price of 200g per fish, while the Lava Eel, a fiery denizen of the Volcano Dungeon, fetches an even more impressive 750g. By stocking your pond with these lucrative species, you can maximize your earnings and accumulate a substantial fortune in no time.
Selecting the Ideal Fish for Your Stardew Pond
When selecting fish for your Stardew Valley pond, several factors should be considered. First and foremost, the size of your pond will influence the type of fish you can keep. Small ponds are suitable for smaller fish, such as Carp or Chub, while larger ponds can accommodate more extensive species like Sturgeon or Legend. Additionally, each fish has unique preferences regarding water quality, temperature, and food. Matching your pond conditions to the specific needs of the fish you intend to stock is crucial for their health and well-being.
The selling price of fish is another essential factor to consider when making your selection. Some fish, such as Trout or Salmon, command higher prices than others, making them more profitable if you plan to sell them for a profit. However, it’s important to remember that the rarity of a fish also plays a role in its value. While common fish may not fetch as much at the market, they are easier to acquire, making them a reliable source of income.
Lastly, the aesthetic value of fish should not be overlooked. The vibrant colors and graceful movements of some species can add a touch of beauty to your pond. If you’re looking for fish that will complement the overall appearance of your farm, consider varieties that offer visual appeal in addition to economic benefits. By carefully considering these factors, you can choose the ideal fish for your Stardew Valley pond, creating a thriving and aesthetically pleasing water feature.
Consider the Pond’s Size
The size of your pond will significantly impact the types of fish you can keep. Smaller ponds are suitable for smaller fish, such as Carp or Chub, while larger ponds can accommodate more extensive species like Sturgeon or Legend. It is important to choose fish that are appropriate for the size of your pond to ensure they have adequate space to swim and thrive.
| Pond Size | Suitable Fish Species |
|---|---|
| Small Pond (3×3 tiles) | Carp, Chub, Sunfish |
| Medium Pond (5×5 tiles) | Rainbow Trout, Salmon, Tilapia |
| Large Pond (7×7 tiles) | Sturgeon, Legend, Octopus |
Enhancing the Beauty and Delight of Your Fish Pond: Enchanting Goldfish
The vibrant hues and playful nature of goldfish make them a popular choice for Stardew Valley fish ponds. With their diverse color variations and enchanting presence, these fish add a touch of magic to any pond.
Aquacultural Benefits
In addition to their aesthetic appeal, goldfish also offer practical benefits to your fish pond. They are relatively easy to breed, providing a steady supply of eggs for future generations. Their omnivorous diet makes them adaptable to various food sources, reducing the need for specialized feeding.
Moreover, goldfish are known for their ability to improve water quality. They consume algae and other microorganisms, contributing to the overall health of the pond ecosystem. This cleaning action helps maintain clear water, providing a favorable environment for other pond inhabitants.
| Variety | Coloration |
|---|---|
| Calico | Gold, red, blue, and black |
| Comet | Metallic silver or gold with a white belly |
| Shubunkin | Broad, multicolored scales with a calico pattern |
Majestic Stardrop: A Fish of Legendary Shimmer
The Majestic Stardrop is a radiant and elusive fish found in the depths of the ocean. Its scales shimmer with iridescent hues, reflecting a spectrum of ethereal colors. Its presence is said to bring tranquility and balance to its surroundings.
This enigmatic creature is incredibly rare, appearing only during specific moon phases in the Forest Spring. To catch this coveted fish, anglers must possess the patience of a seasoned hunter and the skills of a master fisher.
The Stardrop is a prized possession among collectors and culinary enthusiasts. Its meat is said to possess a delicate flavor and a subtle sweetness. The scales are often used as decorative adornments, illuminating spaces with their ethereal glow.
Catching the Majestic Stardrop
Catching the Majestic Stardrop requires meticulous preparation and unwavering determination. Here are some key tips to increase your chances of success:
- Choose the Right Equipment: Opt for a high-quality rod with strong fishing line. A stronger bait such as Squid or Sea Urchin will attract the Stardrop’s attention.
- Study the Fish’s Behavior: The Stardrop is known to appear in the Forest Spring during Summer, from 6 am to 10 pm. It is typically found near the bottom of the pond.
- Master the Fishing Mechanics: The Stardrop is a formidable opponent. Practice your timing and casting skills to ensure a successful catch. Be patient and persistent, as it may take several attempts to reel in this legendary fish.
Energetic Rainbow Trout: A Lively Addition
Rainbow trout are prized for their vibrant coloration and energetic nature. They add a touch of beauty and excitement to any fish pond. Their playful and active behavior makes them a joy to observe, bringing life and animation to your Stardew Valley fish pond.
Feeding and Care
Rainbow trout require a steady supply of high-quality fish food. They thrive on a diet that includes pellets, live insects, and occasional treats like mealworms or bloodworms. Ensure regular water changes to maintain optimal water quality and provide a healthy environment for your trout.
Breeding
Breeding rainbow trout in your fish pond is a rewarding experience. When two adult trout are present, they will occasionally spawn, producing a batch of eggs. These eggs will hatch into tiny fry, which can be raised to adulthood with proper care and feeding.
Additional Tips
Consider the following tips to enhance the well-being of your rainbow trout:
| Tip | Description |
|---|---|
| Provide Ample Space: | Rainbow trout require a minimum of 4 tiles of space per fish to swim comfortably. |
| Add Decorations: | Include plants, rocks, or other decorations to create hiding spots and stimulation for your trout. |
| Monitor Water Temperature: | Rainbow trout prefer cool water temperatures between 50°F and 65°F. Use a heater or chiller to maintain ideal conditions. |
Tranquil Lava Eel: A Fiery Mystery
The Tranquil Lava Eel is an enigmatic fish found in the depths of the Volcano Dungeon. Its fiery appearance belies a surprising tranquility, making it a sought-after catch for fish pond enthusiasts.
Habitat and Appearance
As its name suggests, the Tranquil Lava Eel resides in the lava-filled waters of the Volcano Dungeon. Its body is adorned with vivid shades of orange, red, and black, resembling the molten rock that surrounds it. Despite its fiery appearance, the Tranquil Lava Eel exudes a calming presence, hence its name.
Diet and Behavior
The Tranquil Lava Eel is an omnivorous species that feeds on both plant matter and small aquatic creatures. Its diet consists primarily of algae, fruits, and insects. In fish ponds, it can be provided with a balanced diet of algae, fish bait, and cooked vegetables.
Reproduction
Tranquil Lava Eels reach maturity at around 28 days and can lay eggs every 5 days. The eggs are deposited in clusters and hatch after approximately 10 days. The fry are fully grown within 21 days, making the Tranquil Lava Eel a relatively fast-breeding species.
Benefits of Keeping in a Fish Pond
In addition to its visual appeal, the Tranquil Lava Eel offers several benefits for fish pond enthusiasts:
| Benefit | Description |
|---|---|
| Increased Fish Pond Quality | The Tranquil Lava Eel contributes to the overall quality of the fish pond, making it more appealing to other species and improving the growth rates of all fish in the pond. |
| Lava Eel Eggs | Tranquil Lava Eels produce valuable Lava Eel Eggs, which can be used for cooking or sold for a high price. |
| Calming Presence | The presence of the Tranquil Lava Eel in a fish pond has been shown to reduce stress levels in other fish, creating a more harmonious environment. |
Mischievous Void Salmon: A Nocturnal Enigma
The enigmatic void salmon is a fish of mystery and allure in Stardew Valley. Its dark, almost ethereal appearance and nocturnal habits set it apart from all other species.
This elusive fish can only be found in the deepest, darkest waters of the ocean, far from the reach of sunlight. It’s said that void salmon have the ability to sap energy from their surroundings, creating eerie shadows and an unsettling stillness in their vicinity.
Despite their mysterious nature, void salmon are surprisingly common. They can be caught at any time, but their numbers peak during the darkest hours of the night. To lure them, players can use Void Salmon Roe or other rare baits.
Once hooked, void salmon put up a fierce fight. Their slippery scales and powerful jaws make them a challenge for even experienced anglers.
Catching a void salmon is more than just a fishing triumph. It also unlocks access to the Void Essence item, a rare and powerful resource. This essence can be used to craft unique items, such as the Void Sword and Void Mayonnaise.
In addition to their practical value, void salmon are also highly sought after by collectors. Their unique appearance and nocturnal habits make them a prized catch for any angler looking to complete their collection.
| Characteristics | Details |
|---|---|
| Appearance | Dark, almost ethereal appearance with large, glowing eyes |
| Habitat | Deep, dark ocean waters |
| Time of Activity | Nocturnal |
| Bait | Void Salmon Roe, rare baits |
| Fighting Ability | Fierce and challenging |
| Unlocks | Void Essence |
Regal Sturgeon: A Majestic Giant
The regal sturgeon is a magnificent fish that graces the depths of Stardew Valley’s fish ponds. Renowned for its size and regal appearance, this fish captivates anglers with its elusive nature and bountiful rewards.
7. Profitability and Growth Time
The regal sturgeon boasts exceptional profitability, yielding a base price of 1,000g. However, its true value lies in its roe, which fetches a remarkable 2,000g per harvest. The fish reaches maturity within 12 days, meaning you can reap the financial benefits quickly.
| Young | Adult | |
|---|---|---|
| Breeding | Not Possible | Yes (2) |
| Fish Pond Capacity | 10 | 20 |
Elusive Crimsonfish: A Coveted Catch
Crimsonfish, known for their vibrant scarlet hues, hold a special allure in the world of Stardew Valley. These elusive creatures frequent the depths of the Mountain Lake, making their capture a thrilling challenge for seasoned anglers.
Mountain Lake: A Crimson Abyss
Nestled amidst towering mountains, the Mountain Lake serves as the exclusive habitat for Crimsonfish. This serene expanse offers depths reaching 16 tiles, providing ample space for these agile swimmers to hide.
Seasonal Rarity: Summer Delights
Crimsonfish grace the waters of Mountain Lake solely during the summer months. Between 6 AM and 6 PM, they become available, offering a tantalizing window for eager anglers.
Alluring Bait: Tempters of the Deep
To entice Crimsonfish, anglers should employ the use of Squid Bait or Wild Bait. These succulent delicacies will pique the curiosity of these elusive creatures, increasing the chances of a successful catch.
Skill Mastery: The Key to Success
Catching Crimsonfish requires a high level of Fishing skill. Ideally, anglers should aim for Level 6 Fishing to ensure a smoother capture process and minimize the risk of losing the prized catch to untimely escapes.
Slippery Escape: A Battle of Wits
Known for their swift movements, Crimsonfish are notorious for escaping hooks. To prevent this frustrating scenario, it is crucial to use a Trap Bobber or Cork Bobber. These special bobbers increase the catch rate and provide additional control during the reeling process.
Pond Placement: A Sanctuary for Crimsonfish
For those seeking to cultivate their own Crimsonfish stock, constructing a fish pond on the farm is highly recommended. By placing Crimsonfish within the pond, they will breed and multiply, allowing for a continuous supply of these prized specimens.
Gourmet Delight: A Culinary Masterpiece
Not only are Crimsonfish coveted for their rarity, but they also possess exquisite culinary value. When cooked into Sashimi, a dish available at Cooking Level 8, Crimsonfish yield a remarkable +4 Fishing buff. This delectable treat enhances fishing capabilities, making future catches even more rewarding.
Bountiful Octopus: A Cephalopod Surprise
The Bountiful Octopus, a captivating cephalopod inhabitant of the fish pond, offers a unique blend of aesthetics and economic value. Its eight iridescent tentacles gracefully sway in the water, creating a mesmerizing spectacle. Beyond its allure, this creature holds significant monetary potential.
Boon to Your Bank Account
The Bountiful Octopus is a remarkable investment for any fish pond. Its average selling price of 3,000g ensures a steady flow of income. However, its true financial prowess lies in its ability to produce Autumn’s Bounty every two minutes. This rare item, worth 1,000g on average, can significantly enhance your coffers.
Purchasing and Preparing Your Pond
Acquiring a Bountiful Octopus requires a well-prepared pond. Ensure that the pond is fully upgraded (level 2) and contains a minimum of three algae plants. Once the conditions are met, head to the Traveling Cart or the Night Market on Ginger Island, where you may have the fortune of encountering this cephalopod marvel.
Feeding and Care
The Bountiful Octopus is relatively low-maintenance. It thrives on any type of pond weed, making feeding effortless. The recommended ratio of eight pond weeds to one roe ensures optimal health and productivity.
Pond Dynamics
The Bountiful Octopus benefits from cohabitation with other fish species. The Super Cucumber and Sturgeon can increase the chances of Autumn’s Bounty production, while the Lava Eel boosts the octopus’s market value. Avoid pairing it with the Void Salmon, as their decaying fish roe can deplete the pond’s algae supply and hinder the octopus’s growth.
Size, Age, and Seasonality
| Size |
|---|
| Tiny (100% baby) |
| Small (50% adult) |
| Medium (75% adult) |
| Large (100% adult) |
| Age |
|---|
| Baby (0 days) |
| Juvenile (10 days) |
| Adult (20 days) |
| Elder (60 days) |
| Seasonality |
|---|
| All seasons |
Versatile Squid: A Resourceful Pond Dweller
A Bountiful Source of Ink
Squids are a versatile addition to any fish pond, renowned for their ability to produce a valuable ink. This ink can be used in various ways, such as crafting high-quality dyes and fertilizers, adding a unique touch to your farm.
Nutritional Value and Profit
Squids are a rich source of nutrients, providing energy and essential fatty acids. Their roe is also highly valued for its culinary properties, commanding a respectable price in the market.
Harvesting Pearls
In addition to their ink and nutritional value, squids have a chance of producing rare pearls. These pearls can be sold for a substantial profit or used in crafting valuable jewelry.
Pond Size and Compatibility
Squids thrive in ponds of at least 6×6 tiles. They are compatible with other fish species, making them an excellent choice for mixed-species ponds.
Pond Environment
Squids prefer ponds with a clean, well-aerated environment. Regular cleaning and water filtration are essential for maintaining their health and productivity.
Feeding Habits
Squids are omnivorous and accept a variety of food items. A balanced diet that includes algae, worms, and small invertebrates is recommended.
Benefits in Numbers
Here is a summary of the key benefits of raising squids in fish ponds:
| Benefit | Value |
|---|---|
| Ink Production | High-quality dyes and fertilizers |
| Nutritional Value | Energy, essential fatty acids |
| Roe Sales | Culinary value |
| Pearl Production | Rare and valuable |
| Pond Compatibility | Can live with other species |
| Pond Size | Minimum 6×6 tiles |
| Environment | Clean, well-aerated water |
| Diet | Omnivorous, including algae, worms, invertebrates |
Best Fish for Fish Ponds in Stardew Valley
Choosing the right fish for your fish ponds in Stardew Valley can significantly impact your income and gameplay strategy. Here are the top picks for the best fish to breed and raise:
Sturgeon: The Sturgeon is the most valuable fish in the game, selling for 650g per roe. They are also the most profitable fish to put in Preserves Jars, producing Aged Roe which sells for 1,040g. Sturgeon take 24 hours to mature, so consider stocking multiple ponds to maximize their output.
Lava Eel: The Lava Eel is another profitable fish, selling for 400g per fish. They mature quickly, taking only 4 hours, making them ideal for players who want to earn money quickly. Lava Eels can only be caught in the Volcano Dungeon, so you’ll need to invest in upgrades to reach them.
Blobfish: The Blobfish is a unique fish that only produces roe when it’s raining. Its roe sells for 300g, making it a decent earner during rainy seasons. Blobfish mature in 12 hours, and they can be found in the Mutant Bug Lair.
