Stardew Valley

Where To Catch Catfish in Stardew Valley: Ultimate Guide

Cami

20 November 2025

11 min read

You can catch catfish in Stardew Valley by fishing in rivers (like Pelican Town or Cindersap Forest) during rainy days in Spring or Fall from 6 AM to midnight. Alternatively, they can be found in the Secret Woods and Witch’s Swamp in Summer and Winter with a Rain Totem or Magic Bait.

Catfish are one of the more elusive catches in Stardew Valley—especially for new anglers. Whether you’re completing the Community Center, leveling up your Fishing skill, or just trying to make some easy gold, catching a catfish is a must at some point in your playthrough.

In this guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know about catfish Stardew Valley style, including the best spots, tools, seasons, and even how to snag one without picking up your fishing rod.

#Best Locations to Catch Catfish

Knowing the right stardew valley catfish location is half the battle. Catfish aren’t found just anywhere—they spawn in specific areas, and only under certain conditions.

#River Fishing (Spring & Fall Only)

The most consistent way to find catfish is in rivers when it’s raining.

Top river locations:

Pelican Town River – right in the heart of town, near Jodi’s or below the bridge.
Cindersap Forest River – south of your farm, near Leah’s cabin.
Forest Farm, Riverlands Farm, or Hill-Top Farm – if you chose one of these layouts.

Pro Tip: Fish from the bridge west of Jodi’s house early in the morning on a rainy day in Spring or Fall. It’s a catfish hotspot!

#Secret Woods Pond

If you’ve upgraded your axe and unlocked the Secret Woods, you’re in luck.

Available in Spring, Summer, Fall, and Winter (only with Rain Totem in Winter).

Rain required.

Great spot to avoid competition and find peaceful fishing vibes.

#Witch’s Swamp

Unlocked through late-game quests ("Dark Talisman" and "Goblin Problem"), this is another reliable spot:

Catfish spawn here in Spring, Summer, and Fall (Rain required).
In Winter, use a Rain Totem or Magic Bait.

#When to Catch Catfish

Timing is everything when it comes to when to catch catfish Stardew Valley style.

#Time of Day:

6:00 AM to 12:00 AM (Midnight)

#Seasons & Weather:

Magic Bait removes season/time/weather restrictions entirely. Use it to catch catfish anytime, anywhere they normally spawn.

#How to Catch a Catfish in Stardew Valley

Alright, now you know where to find catfish Stardew Valley wise. But how do you actually catch one? They’re fast, aggressive, and tricky—especially with a low Fishing level.

#Recommended Gear:

1. Fiberglass Rod (Fishing Level 2) or Iridium Rod (Fishing Level 6)

2. Bait – decreases bite time.

3. Trap Bobber – slows down how fast the catch meter drains.

4. Dish o’ the Sea (+3 Fishing) – recipe: 2 Sardines + 1 Hashbrown.

#Strategy Tips:

Start early: Give yourself the full day to fish.
Fish in deep water: Dark blue tiles improve quality and spawn chance.
Stay below the fish: Catfish tend to dart upward quickly, so react fast.
Use food buffs: Even just +1 Fishing makes a huge difference.

#Alternative Ways to Get Catfish

Not in the mood to fish? No worries—there are other ways to get catfish in Stardew Valley.

#1. Traveling Cart

Appears Fridays & Sundays in Cindersap Forest.
Catfish cost: 600g–1,000g
Random stock, so check frequently.

#2. Garbage Cans

Check any can in Pelican Town during Spring or Fall.
Low drop chance, but it’s free!

#3. Mail Gifts

Linus may randomly send one after you befriend him.
Your pet cat (max friendship) might also gift you one.

#4. Fish Pond

Once caught, place one in a Fish Pond.
They reproduce every 4 days.
Pond capacity starts at 3, grows to 10 after completing quests.
Produces Catfish Roe for steady income.

#What to Do with Catfish

You’ve caught one (or ten). Now what?

#1. Sell It for Gold

Tip: Use the Angler profession for max profits.

#2. Complete the River Fish Bundle

Found in the Community Center.
Reward: 30 Bait and progress toward major upgrades.

#3. Craft and Cook

Sashimi: Any fish (including catfish) – +75 energy.
Quality Fertilizer: 1 Fish + 2 Sap – boosts crop quality.

#4. Gift It (Carefully)

Willy loves catfish!
Most villagers are neutral or dislike it. Some (like Haley and Evelyn) hate it.

#5. Use in Tailoring

Combine with the sewing machine to create the Fish Shirt (dyeable).
Use Catfish Roe to make Aged Roe in a Preserves Jar for extra profit.

#FAQs

#Where can I catch catfish in Stardew Valley?

You can catch catfish in rivers (Pelican Town, Cindersap Forest) during rainy Spring and Fall days. Also found in the Secret Woods and Witch’s Swamp year-round (rain required).

#How do I catch a catfish in Stardew Valley?

Fish with a Fiberglass or Iridium Rod on rainy days between 6 AM and midnight. Use Bait and Trap Bobber for best results.

#Can I catch catfish in Winter?

Yes! Use a Rain Totem to make it rain or equip Magic Bait to bypass weather restrictions.

#Where else can I get catfish?

Buy from the Traveling Cart, check garbage cans, receive one by mail from Linus or your pet, or breed them in a Fish Pond.

#What’s the best time to catch catfish?

Start early on a rainy Spring or Fall day. Fish between 6 AM – 12 AM in rivers or anytime in the Secret Woods and Witch’s Swamp (rain needed).

#Alright, let's wrap this up!

Catching a catfish in Stardew Valley might feel like a mini-boss battle early on, but it’s totally doable with the right prep. With this guide, you’ve got everything you need to hook that slippery fish—whether it’s for the Community Center, your Fish Pond empire, or a big rainy day payday.

So next time you see those clouds roll in? Grab your rod and head to the river—you know exactly where to get catfish in Stardew Valley now.

Happy fishing, and don’t forget to pet your cat. It might just gift you one!

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