Keeping Fish in Animal Crossing: A Guide to Purpose and Value

So, You’ve Got a Fish in Animal Crossing… Now What? (Don’t Panic!)

Great job! You’ve cast your line and caught a pixelated fish in Animal Crossing. Now what? You may wonder what to do with your new scaly friend. Let’s explore the options together.

Don’t worry, island dweller! This isn’t a fish-hoarding simulator (unless you want it to be). There’s a long list of things to do with your finned friends. Let’s dive right in!

What’s the Catch? (Uses for Your Fishy Friends)

1. Donate to the Museum: Become a Patron of the Aquatic Arts

   First, consider donating your catch to the museum. It helps science, culture, and Blathers’ insect worries (the fish are safe).

   • Unlock the Museum Magic: Tom Nook’s Creature Feature

     Accessing the museum isn’t automatic. You need to earn it first. Here’s how to get Blathers and his beloved museum on your island:

     • Catch Five Critters: Grab your net and rod! You need five unique species of fish or bugs. Variety is essential for museum life.
     • Nook’s the Hook-Up: Head to Resident Services and talk to Tom Nook. Tell him, “I found a creature!” (Excitement is optional).
     • Donation Station: Donate those five critters to Tom Nook. He’s a temporary, less wise Blathers.
     • Blathers is Calling, and He Must Go: Nook will ring Blathers up. Prepare for owl excitement.
     • Tentative Museum Times: Next, Nook will ask where to place the museum tent. To Blathers, a tent is a real luxury.
     • Blathers Arrives, Museum Dreams Thrive: Blathers will set up his tent the next day. From there, donate all the fish, bugs, and fossils. You are a museum benefactor now.

2. Sell, Sell, Sell! Cash in on Your Catch

   Maybe selling fish sounds better. Island life costs Bells, after all. Those Bells don’t grow on trees… well, sort of, but you get it.

   • Nook’s Cranny: Your Everyday Fishmonger

     Nook’s Cranny is where you can sell almost anything, even fish. Timmy and Tommy might not be biologists, but they love a good salmon too.

     • Versatile Valuables: Fish aren’t just for selling! Donate them, gift them to villagers (results may vary), or decorate your home with fancy fish tanks. Interior design meets fish!
     • Direct Sales or Drop-Off Fails: Sell directly to Timmy and Tommy for full price during store hours. Or use the drop-off box after hours. It takes a 20% cut. Think of it as a convenience fee for lazy selling.
     • C.J. Makes it Pay: Sometimes wait for C.J., the cool beaver who buys fish for 150% of Nook’s Cranny price.

   • C.J. the Beaver: Your High-Value Fish Broker

     C.J. helps maximize your fish profits. He’s like a chill Gordon Gekko of the Animal Crossing fish market.

     • Random Visits, Maximum Gains: C.J. (and Flick, with bugs) randomly appear on your island. Offload your creatures for a sweet 50% bonus. Cha-ching!
     • Tournament Time is Money Time: During Fishing Tourneys, C.J. pays good money for your fish—150% of normal price.

   • The Drop-Off Box: Convenience at a Cost

     Want to sell fish at 3 AM? The drop-off box at Nook’s Cranny is your all-day selling solution. Remember, convenience costs 20%. Selling in pajamas has its price.

     • Less Bells, Less Hassle: Selling through the drop-off box is easy but gives you 20% less than selling inside. Think of it as the price for after-hours service.

   • Flick and Bugs: A Bug-Related Bonus Tip (But Still Relevant-ish)

     Sure, Flick deals with bugs, not fish. But if you want extra creature profits, keep Flick in mind. He buys bugs for 150% of Nook’s prices too!

     • Bug Bonanza Bonus: Flick pays more for bugs than Timmy. Good to know if you catch bugs too.

3. Home Décor: Aquariums are the New Black

   Who needs boring furniture? Put a fish in a tank and BAM! Instant conversation starter. It’s cooler than an old vase from your aunt.

   • Fin-tastic Furnishings: Fish are more than commodities; they’re potential decor! Display them in tanks inside your home. It’s like having an art gallery.

4. Model Mania: C.J.’s Crafty Commissions (New Horizons Exclusive)

   New Horizons players should rejoice! C.J. offers another service: fish models! Give him three same fish and he will make a custom model with Flick. It’s like getting a fish statue—just cooler.

   • Miniature Marine Monuments: In New Horizons only, give fish to C.J., and Flick creates models. Perfect for showing off prized catches without any fish smell.

5. Gifting: Fishy Presents for Fishy Friends (or Foes?)

   Want to impress a villager? Or annoy someone? Fish make great gifts! Reactions might depend on the villager. Giving a boot may annoy them; gifting a Golden Trout brings friendship points!

   • Presenting Piscatorial Presents: Fish can be given as gifts to villagers. Whether it’s thoughtful or bizarre depends on the villager’s personality.

Reel ‘Em In: Fishing Mechanics and Pro Tips

Knowing what to do is half the battle. You must catch them first, right? Fishing isn’t complex, but finesse matters. Let’s go from novice to expert angler.

1. How to Actually Fish (It’s Simpler Than You Think)

   Fishing seems simple, and mostly it is. But mastering basics fills pockets and donation boxes with finned treasures.

   • Cast Away! (The ‘A’ Button is Your Friend)

     Cast your line by pressing ‘A’. Aim so the bobber lands in front of the fish. It should look like a dinner invitation they can’t refuse.

     • Button Bliss: Press the ‘A’ Button to cast your line. It’s that simple!
     • Bobber Placement Perfection: Drop that bobber right by the fish. Presentation counts!

   • Positioning is Power (Slightly)

     “Power” may be an overstatement. Standing correctly makes casting easier. Just avoid falling into the water—that’s not effective fishing!

     • Strategic Stance: Positioning helps aiming your cast.

   • Pull the Trigger (Again, ‘A’ Button Magic)

     Missed your cast? Fish not biting? No worries! Press ‘A’ again to reel in your line and try again. Keep going!

     • Redo Your Reel: If off-target or ignored, press ‘A’ to pull back and recast.

2. Why Did the Fish Bolt? (Common Fishing Faux Pas)

   Ever had a fish nibble, and then you yank the rod, but… nothing? Frustrating! Let’s troubleshoot missed opportunities.

   • Premature Pulling Problems (Timing is Everything)

     The main fishing mistake? Pulling too early. Patience matters! Wait for the actual bite, not just nibbles.

     • Early Bird Gets No
3. • • Worms (or Fish): Fish swim away if you pull the rod too soon. It’s like grabbing a cookie from the oven before it’s done – messy and sad.

   • Nibble vs. Grab: Fishing Tips

     Fish make two sounds: a light nibble and a solid “CHOMP” when they grab the hook. Wait for the ‘chomp’! Your ears are key tools for fishing (besides the rod).

     • Listen, Angler: Fish sound different when nibbling and grabbing the hook. Learn to tell them apart!
     • Reaction Time: If you’re slow to react, the fish escapes. Balance patience with quick reflexes.

4. Bait Up! (Fish Bait)

   Want fish to come to you? Use fish bait. It’s like ringing a dinner bell for fish nearby. Not really ten miles, but you get it.

   • DIY Bait: Manila Clams

     Making bait is easy (and cheap). Manila clams, found on the beach, are perfect. Beachcombing becomes a fun task!

     • Bait from the Beach: Craft fish bait from manila clams. Dig ’em up – it’s like a treasure adventure, but with clams.
     • Crafting Time: Use a DIY workbench, mix manila clams, and voilà! Bait! Toss it in the water and wait for the fish!

   • Nook’s Cranny Bait (If You Don’t Want Clams)

     Too lazy to find clams? Nook’s Cranny sells fish bait. It’s pricey, but time is money, right?

     • Store-Bought Bait: Buy fish bait from Nook’s Cranny. Convenience comes with a cost.

   • Bait Benefits

     Fish bait is like magic for summon fish. Toss it in, and a fish shadow pops up instantly. Efficient fishing at its best.

     • Quick Fish: Toss bait, and fish appear on demand. No more waiting for shadows to pop up!
     • Shadow Spawning: Bait creates fish shadows nearby, making catching easy. Like ordering fish delivery; you still reel them in.
     • Compact Inventory: Fish bait takes one inventory slot and stacks up to 10. Handy!
     • Bait Investment: Bait sells for 200 Bells, double that of a manila clam. Using it to catch valuable fish pays off in the long run.

5. Dive In! Swim and Snag Sea Creatures

   Beyond rods and rivers lies an ocean of creatures! Swimming and diving adds a new layer to aquatic collecting. Time to explore!

   • Wetsuit Wonders: Swim Gear

     You can’t just jump into the ocean in regular clothes (unless you want to look silly). Get a wetsuit! Here’s how to get one:

     • Wetsuit Requirement: Need a wetsuit to swim. Obvious!
     • Nook’s Cranny or Nook Stop: Buy a wetsuit at Nook’s Cranny for 3,000 Bells, or get it at Nook Stop for 800 Nook Miles.
     • Equip Now! Get your wetsuit from inventory. No changing rooms needed!
     • Entering the Ocean: Walk to the beach, press ‘A’ to jump in. Splashes are encouraged.

   • Bubble Bonanza! Dive for Creatures

     Bubbles are signs of dive-able sea creatures! Swim near them, dive down (‘Y’ button), and catch scallops, starfish, or stranger finds.

     • Bubble Signs: Look out for bubbles swimming! Those mark your dive spots!
     • Dive Action: Swim to bubbles, press ‘Y’ to dive. It’s underwater treasure hunting!
     • Chase Shadows: If a shadow moves underwater, swim by tapping ‘A’. When over it, press ‘A’ again to catch. Underwater speed matters.

6. River Crossings: Vaulting Poles and Bridges

   Rivers can block access to great fishing spots. But no worries, brave angler! Multiple ways exist to cross those watery barriers.

   • Vaulting Pole: Cross Rivers

     The vaulting pole is your go-to for early river crossings. Like a stick that helps you jump rivers (or at least not fall).

     • Pole Power: The Vaulting Pole lets you jump rivers easily. Like island parkour!
     • Get the Recipe: Get the Vaulting Pole recipe from Blathers after he sets up his tent. He’s about museums and movement.
     • Pole Purchase: Buy the pole recipe at Nook’s Cranny after it’s upgraded.
     • Pole Crafting: Use 5 softwood pieces to craft this tool. Super easy!
     • Pole Mechanics: Equip the pole, stand near the riverbank, press ‘A’. Jump across!

   • Bridge Benefits: Permanent Crossings

     Vaulting poles are fine, but bridges offer permanent access (until you decide otherwise). Bridges provide easy river crossings.

     • Bridge Basics: Bridges allow permanent river crossings, no vaulting needed.

   • Waterscaping: Shape Your Island

     Feeling ambitious? In New Horizons, you can reshape rivers (or create new ones!) with a permit. Want a fishing pond? Waterscaping is the way to go!

     • Create rivers: Use waterscaping in New Horizons to alter or form rivers. Create your own island paradise!

Rare Finds and Big Bucks

Not all fish are equal. Some are common, others rare as a polite raccoon dog seller. Some fetch greater Bells than others. Let’s explore rarity and value.

1. The Rarest Fish in Animal Crossing

   Want bragging rights? Catch rare fish! Get ready for a challenge!

   • Coelacanth: Rain Legend

     The Coelacanth is famous for its rarity. It appears only when it rains (or snowed in older games). Rainy days can give you a Coelacanth!

     • Ancient Rarity: The Coelacanth is rare; it reigns supreme in the fish world.
     • Rain Requirement: This fish only shows up in rainy weather. Enjoy that drizzle!

   • Football Fish: Creepy Catch

     The Football Fish is rare and oddly creepy-looking. Still, rarity counts! Catch it between 4 PM and 9 AM for 2,500 Bells.

     • Creepy Yet Catchable: The Football Fish’s appearance is strange. Don’t judge it by looks!
     • Nocturnal Fishing: Catch between 4 PM and 9 AM for best results.
     • Bells Pay Off:Sells for a sweet 2,500 Bells.

   • Golden Trout: Mountain Elegance

     Golden Trout is both beautiful and rare. Found in mountain streams from March Through May and September through November. It’s worth 15,000 Bells at Nook’s Cranny.

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     • A Golden Gem:The Golden Trout is both rare and valuable – like highest fashion.
     • Seasonal Timing:Brought forth from March-May and September-November in mountain rivers.
     • Mighty Worth:Sells huge at Nook’s Cranny for 15,000 Bells!

2. The Most Valuable Fish of All

   Golden Trout is valuable, but are there bigger money fish? Let’s explore possible riches!

   • Golden Trout Again!: Double Dollar Delight

     Yep! The Golden Trout isn’t just rare; it’s also one of New Horizons’ top fishes in value – that makes it special!

     • A Top-Value Fish: This trout raises its value and fame among New Horizons’ catches.

3. Rainy Day Fishing Opportunities

   Rainy days may ruin your real-life outings but in Animal Crossing? Rain means rare fish chances! Grab your raincoat and rod!

   • The Dependable Coelacanth

     This fish relies solely on rain for appearances – truly unique! That’s why it deserves its own category.

4. • appears in the rain (or snow, in older games).
     • Rain-Exclusive Royalty: The Coelacanth is special. It appears only when it’s raining. Rainy days mean more Coelacanths!
     • No Snow in New Horizons: Just a reminder: Coelacanths don’t spawn in snow in New Horizons. Keep track of rain, not snow.

5. Pier Pressure? Pier Fishing Perks

   That wooden pier at your beach serves a purpose. Certain fish can only be found at piers! Time for some fishing fun on the planks.

   • Pier-tastic Fishing Spots

     The pier is not just pretty; it’s a great fishing spot! Some fish only spawn near piers. Fishing by the pier is essential!

     • No Pier Building, Just Pier Existing: You can’t create a pier in New Horizons, but each island has one (or two!). East or west beach, there’s a pier.
     • Airport as Pier Proxy: The airport terminal also acts as a pier for fishing. Try your luck there!

6. Rarest Animal in Animal Crossing? Villagers, Bugs, and Fish Edition

   Is there a “rarest” animal in Animal Crossing? It’s tricky. Let’s explore rarity in villagers, bugs, and fish.

   • Villager Rarity: All Villagers are (Statistically) Created Equal

     Contrary to what many think, no villager is inherently rarer. It’s all about odds. Each villager has the same chance of showing up (1 in 413, statistically).

     • No Villager VIPs (Rarity-Wise): No villager is truly “rarer.” Statistically, they are equally likely.
     • 1 in 413 Chance: Every villager has a 1 in 413 chance of appearing. Equal opportunities!

   • Villager Popularity: Personality and Pizzazz

     While no villager is rarer, some villagers are very popular! Traits and appearance affect desirability. Some villagers have more appeal.

     • Popularity vs. Rarity: Some villagers are more favored for their personality and looks. Popularity does not equal rarity.

   • Sasha: The Post-Update “Rare” Sensation

     Sasha, a newer villager, often gets labeled as “rare,” particularly after the 2.0 update. Is he actually rare or just trendy? Time will reveal his fate.

     • Sasha Speculation: Sasha is seen as “rare” by many since the 2.0 update. Excitement about new villagers?

   • Bug and Fish Rarity: The True Rare Critters

     In terms of actual rarity in-game, some bugs and fish are indeed harder to catch. Think of Gigas Giant Clam, Coelacanth, Golden Trout… these are hard to find.

     • True Rarity: Bugs and Fish: Certain bugs and fish genuinely exist as rarities in the game.
     • Gigas Giant Clam, Coelacanth, etc.: These creatures exemplify true rarity. Real collector’s items!

   • Tarantula Island: Bug Rarity Hotspot (Sort Of)

     Tarantula Island can be a great source of rare bugs if you find it using Nook Miles Tickets. Only if you handle the tarantula swarms, that is.

     • Tarantula Treasure Trove: Tarantula Island is a good spot for rare bugs. Dare to visit?

7. Most Difficult Fish to Catch: Shark Week, Every Week?

   Some fish prove to be very challenging! Sharks, for example, are known for their fighting spirit. Get ready for an intense fishing battle!

   • Shark Showdowns: Strength and Stubbornness

     Sharks, such as the Great White, stand among the hardest fish to catch. These fish are large and powerful. Catching them is a major challenge!

     • Shark Struggle: Sharks are tough catches. Expect a significant struggle!
     • Big and Bad (in a Fishing Sense): They are formidable sea creatures that fight hard.