Catfish
A whiskered bottom-feeder that feeds on small molluscs. Its barbels help it navigate murky river waters.
Quick answer
Where to catch Catfish in Stardew Valley
Catch Catfish at River or Secret Woods or Witch's Swamp during Spring, Summer, Fall from 6:00 AM - 12:00 AM in rainy weather. It sells for 200g at normal quality and 400g when smoked; difficulty 75 makes tackle preparation important.
River or Secret Woods or Witch's Swamp
Spring, Summer, Fall
6:00 AM - 12:00 AM, rainy weather
200g base, 400g iridium
130g Roe -> 260g Aged Roe
Trap Bobber or Barbed Hook
Keep only if needed for bundles, gifts, cooking, or ponds
Is Catfish worth keeping?
Keep Catfish if it fills a bundle, recipe, gift, Fish Pond, or collection goal.
When to sell or smoke it
Sell or smoke extra Catfish when you need gold and do not have a specific use for it.
Fish Pond and Roe
A Catfish Fish Pond can produce Roe, but output depends on pond population and daily rolls. Formula value: 130g Roe, then 260g Aged Roe.
Where & When to Find Catfish
Location
- River
- Secret Woods
- Witch's Swamp
Found in rivers and secret woods during rainy days across three seasons.
Time & Conditions
Difficulty & Catching Strategy
Difficulty: 75
HardChallenging catch requiring skill
Mixed Behavior
Unpredictable movement that alternates between different patterns. Requires adaptability.
Tip: Stay centered and react to changes. Don't commit too heavily to one direction.
Expert Tips for Catfish
Wait for a rainy day in spring, summer, or fall. The river locations in town are excellent spots. This fish is needed for the River Fish Bundle.
Recommended Tackle
Trap Bobber
Slower catch bar drain
Best for: Difficult fish that move a lot
Barbed Hook
Clinging to fish
Best for: Smooth/mixed behavior fish
Tackle requires an Iridium Rod. Purchase from Willy's shop at Fishing Level 6.
Sell Prices by Quality
| Quality | Price |
|---|---|
| Normal | 200g |
| Silver | 250g |
| Gold | 300g |
| Iridium | 400g |
Smoked Fish Value
The Fish Smoker uses 1 Coal and doubles the fish sell price while preserving quality. Fisher or Angler changes the fish value first; Artisan then increases the smoked product.
| Input Quality | Fish Value | Smoked Value |
|---|---|---|
| Normal | 200g | 400g |
| Silver | 250g | 500g |
| Gold | 300g | 600g |
| Iridium | 400g | 800g |
Formula: fish sell price x 2. See the formula audit for source notes.
Uses for Catfish
- Quality Fish Pond fish
- Maki Roll ingredient
- Sashimi
Did You Know?
Catfish are named for their prominent barbels (whiskers) which resemble a cat's whiskers.