Most Expensive and Rare Fish locations in Animal Crossing: Tips and Tricks

Where can I find certain fish in Animal Crossing?

Fishing in Animal Crossing: New Horizons is one of the most rewarding activities, not only for the joy of the catch but also for the substantial earnings. With a plethora of seasonal fish, certain months can offer particularly lucrative opportunities. This guide will walk you through the most valuable and rare fish in Animal Crossing, offering tips on how to catch them and maximize your rewards.

Table of Contents

Introduction to Fishing in Animal Crossing

In the vibrant world of Animal Crossing: New Horizons, fishing is more than just a pastime—it’s a crucial way to earn bells and enhance your island life. Among the various collectible items, Animal Crossing fish stand out due to their seasonal availability and varying values. This guide focuses on the rarest and most expensive fish in the game, providing detailed information on where and when to find them.

The Importance of Seasonal Fishing

Each season brings a different set of fish to the waters around your island. Summer, in particular, is a treasure trove for rare and high-value fish. Knowing when and where to fish can make a significant difference in your earnings.

Selling Fish: Nook’s Cranny vs. CJ

Most Animal Crossing fish can be sold at Nook’s Cranny for a decent price, but selling to CJ can increase your profits by 30%. For example, a fish that sells for 10,000 bells at Nook’s Cranny will fetch 15,000 bells from CJ. This difference can add up quickly, making it worth your while to sell to CJ whenever possible.

Top 10 Most Expensive Animal Crossing Fish

Below is a list of the most valuable fish in Animal Crossing: New Horizons. These fish not only bring in high bells but also add prestige to your collection.

1. Golden Trout

Sells for 15,000 Bells

The Golden Trout is one of the most prized catches in Animal Crossing: New Horizons. This medium-sized shadow can be found in the River at the Clifftop, making it a bit challenging to locate. It is available from 4 p.m. to 9 a.m., between March to May and September to November, in both hemispheres.

Nook’s Cranny Purchase Price: 15,000 Bells

CJ Purchase Price: 22,500 Bells

2. Stringfish

Sells for 15,000 Bells

The Stringfish is another highly valuable river fish. Look for its very large shadow in the River at the Clifftop, from 4 p.m. to 9 a.m. This fish is available in the Northern Hemisphere from December to March and in the Southern Hemisphere from June to September.

Nook’s Cranny Purchase Price: 15,000 Bells

CJ Purchase Price: 22,500 Bells

3. Coelacanth

Sells for 15,000 Bells

The Coelacanth is a prehistoric fish that can be found all year round, but only in rainy weather. Its large shadow can be seen in the sea at any time of day or night, making it a rare and exciting catch.

Nook’s Cranny Purchase Price: 15,000 Bells

CJ Purchase Price: 22,500 Bells

4. Barreleye

Sells for 15,000 Bells

The Barreleye, with its small shadow, can be found in the ocean from 9 p.m. to 4 a.m. This rare fish is available throughout the year, adding a mysterious element to nighttime fishing.

Nook’s Cranny Purchase Price: 15,000 Bells

CJ Purchase Price: 22,500 Bells

5. Great White Shark

Sells for 15,000 Bells

The Great White Shark, identifiable by its large shadow with a dorsal fin, can be caught in the sea between 4 p.m. and 9 a.m. during the summer months. In the Northern Hemisphere, it’s available from June to September, and in the Southern Hemisphere, from December to March.

Nook’s Cranny Purchase Price: 15,000 Bells

CJ Purchase Price: 22,500 Bells

6. Dorado

Sells for 15,000 Bells

The Dorado is a golden-colored river fish, found everywhere in the river from 4 a.m. to 9 p.m. It has a huge shadow and is available in the Northern Hemisphere from June to September and in the Southern Hemisphere from December to March.

Nook’s Cranny Purchase Price: 15,000 Bells

CJ Purchase Price: 22,500 Bells

7. Whale Shark

Sells for 13,000 Bells

The Whale Shark, another large shadow fish with a dorsal fin, can be found in the sea at any time of day or night. It appears from June to September in the Northern Hemisphere and from December to March in the Southern Hemisphere.

Nook’s Cranny Purchase Price: 13,000 Bells

CJ Purchase Price: 19,500 Bells

8. Saw Shark

Sells for 12,000 Bells

The Saw Shark, with its distinctive shadow and dorsal fin, can be caught in the sea from 4 p.m. to 9 a.m. during the summer months. It is available from June to September in the Northern Hemisphere and from December to March in the Southern Hemisphere.

Nook’s Cranny Purchase Price: 12,000 Bells

CJ Purchase Price: 18,000 Bells

9. Sturgeon

Sells for 10,000 Bells

The Sturgeon can be found at the mouth of the river, appearing as a large shadow. It is available at any time of day and has a long season: September through March in the Northern Hemisphere and March through September in the Southern Hemisphere.

Nook’s Cranny Purchase Price: 10,000 Bells

CJ Purchase Price: 15,000 Bells

10. Napoleonfish

Sells for 10,000 Bells

The Napoleonfish appears as a huge shadow in the ocean and is available from 4 a.m. to 9 p.m. during two summer months. In the Northern Hemisphere, it’s available in July and August, while in the Southern Hemisphere, it’s available in January and February.

Nook’s Cranny Purchase Price: 10,000 Bells

CJ Purchase Price: 15,000 Bells

Strategies for Catching Rare Animal Crossing Fish

Finding and catching these rare Animal Crossing fish requires a combination of patience, strategy, and a bit of luck. Here are some tips to improve your chances:

Know the Seasons and Times

Each fish has specific times and seasons when they are available. Make sure to check the in-game Critterpedia for this information, and plan your fishing trips accordingly.

Use Fish Bait

Crafting and using fish bait can significantly increase your chances of encountering rare fish. Fish bait can be made from manila clams, which are found by digging up the small water spouts on the beach.

Pay Attention to Shadows

Fish shadows vary in size, and each rare fish has a specific shadow size. Learning to recognize these shadows can help you target the fish you are seeking.

Fish in the Right Locations

Certain fish are only found in specific locations, such as rivers, clifftops, or the sea. Make sure you are fishing in the correct area for the fish you want to catch.

Selling Your Catch: Maximizing Profits

Once you’ve caught your rare Animal Crossing fish, deciding where and when to sell them can impact your earnings significantly.

Selling to Nook’s Cranny

Nook’s Cranny is always a reliable place to sell your fish. While the prices are good, selling to CJ can yield even better returns.

Selling to CJ

CJ, the beaver character who visits your island periodically, offers 30% more for your fish. It’s worth holding onto your valuable catches until he visits.

Donating to the Museum

While it can be tempting to sell every rare fish you catch, don’t forget to donate at least one of each type to Blathers’ Museum. Completing the museum collection is a rewarding experience and adds to your island’s charm.

Conclusion: Embrace the Thrill of the Catch

Fishing for rare Animal Crossing fish in New Horizons is a fulfilling endeavor that combines strategy, patience, and a bit of luck. By understanding the best times and places to fish, using bait effectively, and making smart selling decisions, you can maximize your earnings and enjoy the diverse aquatic life your island has to offer.

Remember, the joy of Animal Crossing lies in its blend of relaxation and challenge. Happy fishing, and may your nets always be full of the rarest catches!

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