ARK: Survival Evolved's fishing mechanics might seem daunting at first, but mastering them unlocks a reliable source of food and valuable resources. This guide will cover everything from acquiring a fishing pole to reeling in your biggest catch, answering common questions along the way.
What You Need to Start Fishing in ARK
Before you can cast your line, you'll need a few essentials:
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A Fishing Rod: This is crafted at a crafting station (such as a campfire, cooking pot, or fabrication bench) using thatch, fiber, and wood. The exact recipe varies slightly depending on the game version, so check your in-game crafting menu for the most up-to-date information.
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Bait: You'll need bait to attract fish. The easiest bait to obtain is Mejoberries, which are readily available throughout the ARK's various biomes. Other types of berries and even cooked meat can also serve as bait, though their effectiveness may vary.
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A Body of Water: Obviously, you need water! Lakes, rivers, and oceans all contain different types of fish, each with unique characteristics and rarity.
How to Equip and Use the Fishing Pole
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Equip the Fishing Rod: Open your inventory, find your crafted fishing rod, and equip it to your hotbar.
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Select the Fishing Rod: Select the fishing rod from your hotbar.
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Add Bait: Once the fishing rod is equipped, you'll see an option to add bait. Select the bait (like Mejoberries) from your inventory and add it to the rod.
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Cast Your Line: With the rod equipped and baited, right-click to cast your line into the water. You'll see your line extend. The further you cast, the greater your chances of encountering a wider range of fish.
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Waiting for a Bite: Be patient! The screen will display a notification when you get a bite.
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Reeling in Your Catch: Once you get a bite, quickly start reeling in your catch by repeatedly pressing the left mouse button (or the equivalent on your console). Fighting larger fish requires more patience and steady reeling, as they will pull back. If your line snaps, you'll lose your bait and the fish.
What Kind of Fish Can I Catch?
The types of fish you can catch depend heavily on the location and biome you're fishing in. Coastal waters offer different species than inland lakes and rivers. Experiment with different locations to discover the diverse aquatic life ARK has to offer. Some fish are rare and valuable, requiring persistence and the right bait.
What are some tips for successful fishing?
- Experiment with different baits: Some fish might be more attracted to certain types of bait.
- Find the right location: Different bodies of water have different fish populations.
- Be patient: Fishing in ARK takes time and patience. Don't get discouraged if you don't catch anything immediately.
- Upgrade your gear: While a simple fishing rod will work, consider crafting better rods later in the game for increased durability and potentially better chances of catching larger fish.
How do I deal with larger fish?
Larger fish will put up a stronger fight, requiring you to reel steadily and patiently. Jerky movements can cause your line to snap. It might be beneficial to increase your stamina stats or use stamina-boosting consumables to enhance your fishing endurance.
What can I do with the fish I catch?
Caught fish can be cooked over a campfire or cooking pot to provide valuable nourishment. Certain fish also provide unique resources, like oils or specific components for crafting.
By following these steps and understanding the nuances of ARK's fishing system, you'll be well on your way to becoming a master angler and securing a vital source of food and resources for your survival. Remember to consult the in-game wiki or online resources for the most accurate and up-to-date information specific to your version of ARK: Survival Evolved.
