While farming takes center stage, Stardew Valley offers a variety of activities to keep players engaged, including the art of fishing.
This article will delve into the fishing world and specifically focus on the elusive Walleye fish. Discover the best strategies, locations, and seasons to catch this prized fish and its importance in quests, crafting, and other aspects of the game!
What is Walleye?
Walleyes are known for their unique behavior patterns. They exhibit moderate difficulty and are considered medium-sized fish. Understanding their behavior and size can enhance your fishing prowess.
How to Catch Walleye in Stardew Valley
Below is a detailed step-by-step guide to fishing in Stardew Valley, including the necessary actions to equip gear, cast the line, and successfully catch Walleye.
Locations to Catch Walleye in Stardew Valley
Walleye is a freshwater fish that can be found in the River, Mountain Lake, and Cindersap Forest Pond in Stardew Valley. These locations should be your primary focus when searching for Walleye.

Pelican Town River
Explore the Pelican Town River area to increase your chances of catching Walleye. Experiment with different casting spots and techniques to find the most productive regions.
Cindersap Forest Pond
The Cindersap Forest Pond is another location for Walleye fishing, nestled around trees and lush grass. Cast your line into the pond and employ the fishing techniques outlined earlier to increase your chances of success.
Mountain Lake
Mountain Lake also serves as a potential spot to catch Walleye. Pay attention to the in-game time and weather conditions when fishing at this location.
Timing
Walleye are available for fishing between 12 PM and 2AM. Ensuring your character has enough energy for late-night fishing is crucial, so plan your activities accordingly.
Consuming food items such as purchasing energy-boosting snacks from the Stardrop Saloon or your own kitchen can help maintain your character’s energy levels.

Fall and Winter Seasons
Fall and Winter are the only seasons for Walleye fishing. These seasons are the most opportune time to focus on catching this elusive fish.
Rainfall
Walleye only appears on rainy days. You can wait for natural rainy days or use a Rain Totem to create rainfall.
You must reach Foraging Level 9 and gather the ingredients to craft a Rain Totem with 1x Hardwood, 1x Truffle Oil, and 5x Pine Tar. Alternatively, you can obtain this totem in Trease Rooms at the Skull Cavern.
Fishing Techniques and Gear
Tips for the Mini-Game
The fishing mini-game in Stardew Valley requires skill and precision. Mastering the art of casting and catching is essential.
Pay attention to the fish’s movement and use short, quick taps on the action button to keep the fish in the green bar steady. Learning the behavior patterns and constant practice will improve your chances of catching Walleye.

Recommended Fishing Gear for Catching Walleye
1. Fishing Rods
Start with the basic Bamboo Pole, then upgrade to the Fiberglass Rod and, eventually, the Iridium Rod, which offers the best performance and ability to equip both baits and tackle.
2. Additional Gear
Enhance your fishing experience by using bait and trap bobbers. Bait increases bite rates, while trap bobbers make fish escape less likely.
Using Magic Bait for Catching Walleye
Magic Bait provides a reliable method for catching Walleye, regardless of the season or weather conditions. Using the appropriate tackle and bait can significantly improve your chances of catching Walleye in Stardew Valley.
Experiment with different combinations and techniques to find the most effective approach for your fishing endeavors.
Fishing Techniques
Combine Magic Bait with effective fishing techniques to maximize your chances of catching Walleye. Pay attention to the fish’s movements, adjust your casting distance, and precisely tap to steady the green bar.

Uses of Walleye in Stardew Valley
Quests and Bundles
The Walleye has significance in several quests. It may be requested on the “Help Wanted” board during Fall or Winter. Upon completion, there is a monetary reward and 150 Friendship points for those who request it.
The Night Fishing Bundle at the Community Center Fish Tank requires one Walleye. Another bundle that requires Walleye is the Quality Fish Bundle, but it needs to be either Gold-quality or Iridium-quality.
Crafting
Walleye has multiple crafting and usage purposes. It can be used in recipes such as Sashimi, Quality Fertilizer, and Maki Roll. Moreover, Walleye can be utilized to craft a Fishing Vest and obtain yellow dye.
Selling Information
Walleyes fetch a decent price, making them a valuable catch. Consider selling them directly or utilizing them in quests and crafting to maximize their value.
Walleye | Selling Price | Fisher (+25%) | Angler (+50%) |
Base | 105g | 131g | 157g |
Silver | 131g | 163g | 196g |
Gold | 157g | 196g | 235g |
Iridium | 210g | 262g | 315g |
Effects on Energy and Health

Consuming Walleye offers a moderate energy boost and a small amount of health regeneration. It can be a valuable food source, especially during busy days on the farm or deep mining excursions.
Walleye | Energy | Health |
Base | +30 | +13 |
Silver | +42 | +18 |
Gold | +54 | +24 |
Iridium | +78 | +35 |
Villagers' Preferences and Reactions
Some villagers in Stardew Valley have Walleye as a Neutral gift, such as Demetrius, Elliot, Leo, Linus, Pam, Sebastian, and Willy. The others Dislike or Hate it.
Building positive relationships with villagers by gifting them their preferred items can unlock new dialogue and increase friendship.

Conclusion
Mastering the art of catching Walleye in Stardew Valley requires patience, skill, and a deep understanding of the game’s mechanics [1]. The techniques, tips, and strategies outlined in this guide significantly increase your chances of reeling in this elusive fish.
Use the appropriate gear, consider the best seasons and locations, and explore Walleye’s numerous benefits in quests, crafting, and interactions with villagers.