Animal Crossing: City Folk ౼ Wii Fish Guide
Welcome, aspiring anglers! This comprehensive guide details every finned friend in Animal Crossing: City Folk for the Wii, aiding your fishing adventures.

Discover locations, times, and rarities to become a master fisher and fill your museum with aquatic treasures!
Fishing in Animal Crossing: City Folk is a delightful pastime, offering relaxation and valuable rewards. It’s a core gameplay loop, providing Bells, museum donations, and a satisfying challenge. To begin, acquire a fishing rod from Timmy and Tommy Nook’s shop.
Approach the water’s edge – rivers, the ocean, or even the pond – and watch for fish shadows. Press ‘A’ when close to a shadow, initiating a mini-game. Successfully time your button press as the fish bites to reel it in! New fish were introduced in City Folk, expanding the aquatic diversity. Mastering fishing unlocks a world of underwater treasures.
Understanding Fish Shadows
Fish shadows are your primary clue to what lurks beneath the surface in Animal Crossing: City Folk. However, shadow size isn’t always a reliable indicator of species. Larger shadows can signify common fish like Sea Bass, but also rarer catches like the Napoleonfish or even the elusive Coelacanth.
Pay close attention to the shape of the shadow. Some fish have distinct silhouettes. Learning to differentiate these shapes, combined with the time of day and location, dramatically increases your chances of landing specific fish. Remember, a large shadow doesn’t guarantee a rare find!
Fishing Locations in City Folk
Several key locations offer unique fishing opportunities in Animal Crossing: City Folk. The ocean is prime territory for a wide variety of fish, including rarer species like Tuna and the Napoleonfish. Rivers host different fish, such as the Popeyed Goldfish and Killifish. Don’t overlook the holding pond, a hotspot for specific, often rarer, river dwellers.
The town’s pier is also a productive spot. Remember that certain fish, like the Coelacanth, are exclusively found in the ocean and require specific weather conditions. Exploring all locations maximizes your chances of completing your museum’s fish collection!
Fishing Times and Seasons
Timing is crucial for successful fishing in Animal Crossing: City Folk. Many fish have specific time windows when they appear, ranging from dawn to dusk. Some, like the Coelacanth, are only available during rainy or snowy conditions between 4 PM and 9 AM.
Seasonal changes dramatically impact fish availability. Different species spawn during different months, meaning a fish plentiful in summer might vanish in winter. Regularly checking which fish are currently available is vital. Patience and consistent fishing throughout the day and year are key to catching them all!
Common Fish
Beginner fishers will frequently encounter several species throughout the year. The Puffer Fish, Horse Mackerel, Barred Knifejaw, and Sea Bass are readily available in the ocean. These fish are excellent for building up your museum collection and earning early Bells.
While not exceptionally valuable, consistently catching these common fish provides a steady income and contributes to completing your critterpedia. Don’t underestimate their importance in the early stages of your City Folk fishing journey! They are a reliable source of income.
Puffer Fish
The Puffer Fish is a common catch in Animal Crossing: City Folk, primarily found in the ocean. It’s recognizable by its unique, inflated appearance and is available year-round, making it a consistently accessible species for new players.
You can sell a Puffer Fish for 500 Bells. While not a high price, it’s a reliable early-game source of income. It’s a frequent addition to the museum, and catching several contributes to completing your critterpedia. Its shadow is a medium size, making it relatively easy to identify!
Horse Mackerel
The Horse Mackerel is another frequently encountered fish in Animal Crossing: City Folk, inhabiting the ocean waters around your town. It’s available throughout the entire year, offering consistent fishing opportunities regardless of the season. This makes it a dependable catch for both beginners and seasoned players alike.
You can sell the Horse Mackerel to Tom Nook for 600 Bells. While not exceptionally valuable, it’s a step up from the Puffer Fish and contributes to your overall Bell earnings. Its shadow is medium-sized, aiding in identification while casting your line.

Barred Knifejaw

The Barred Knifejaw is a common ocean-dwelling fish in Animal Crossing: City Folk, readily available to anglers throughout the year. Its consistent presence makes it a reliable catch for players aiming to bolster their museum collection or earn some quick Bells. Identifying its shadow – a medium size – is key to successful fishing.
Tom Nook will purchase the Barred Knifejaw from you for 700 Bells. This slightly higher value compared to other common fish makes it a worthwhile target. It’s a good stepping stone towards catching more valuable and rarer species in the game.
Sea Bass
The Sea Bass is arguably the most frequently caught fish in Animal Crossing: City Folk, often considered a staple for new players. Found in the ocean year-round, its shadow is a medium size, making it easily identifiable, though often frustratingly common! Many players encounter numerous Sea Bass before landing a rarer catch.
Despite its abundance, Tom Nook will buy a Sea Bass for 600 Bells. While not a fortune, consistent catches can contribute to your growing Bell balance. Don’t be discouraged by its prevalence; persistence is key to discovering the ocean’s true treasures!
River Fish
Rivers in City Folk teem with a diverse range of fish, offering unique challenges and rewards for dedicated anglers. Unlike the ocean, river fishing often requires more precise timing and location scouting. Several species, like the Popeyed Goldfish and Killifish, are exclusive to these freshwater environments.
Expect to find varying sizes of shadows, indicating different fish types. Some river fish, such as the Crucian Carp and Bitterling, are considered relatively common, while others, like the Stringfish, are highly sought-after rarities. Prepare for a rewarding, yet sometimes patient, fishing experience!
Popeyed Goldfish
The Popeyed Goldfish is a distinctive river resident in Animal Crossing: City Folk, easily recognized by its bulging eyes! This fish can be caught between 9:00 AM and 4:00 PM, making it a prime target for daytime fishing trips. It’s considered a relatively rare find, adding a touch of excitement to your river expeditions.
Anglers can sell their catch for 1,300 Bells, a decent reward for the effort. Don’t forget to donate one to Blathers at the museum to complete your aquatic collection! Keep an eye out for its medium-sized shadow along the riverbanks.

Killifish
The Killifish is a small, but charming, addition to the aquatic life in Animal Crossing: City Folk. This fish is exclusively found in the holding pond, making it a unique catch compared to river or sea dwellers. Interestingly, it can be caught all day long, offering flexibility for fishing enthusiasts!
Despite its availability, the Killifish is considered a rare find within the holding pond. You can sell this little fish for 300 Bells. While not a huge payout, every Bell counts! Be sure to add it to your museum collection for a complete display.
Crucian Carp
The Crucian Carp is a common river fish in Animal Crossing: City Folk, readily available for anglers of all skill levels. You can find this fish swimming in the rivers from 9 AM to 4 PM, providing a decent window for catching opportunities. It’s a reliable catch for those starting their fishing journey or needing a quick Bell boost.
You can sell the Crucian Carp for 1,300 Bells at Tom Nook’s store. While not the most valuable fish, it contributes nicely to your growing fortune. Don’t forget to donate one to the museum to complete your river fish exhibit!
Bitterling
The Bitterling is a somewhat elusive river fish found in Animal Crossing: City Folk. Anglers can attempt to catch this fish throughout the entire day, offering flexibility in your fishing schedule. However, it’s considered a rarer find compared to more common river inhabitants, requiring patience and persistence.
When you successfully reel in a Bitterling, you can sell it to Tom Nook for 300 Bells. While the price isn’t exceptionally high, it’s a worthwhile catch for completing your museum’s fish collection. Remember to donate one specimen to Blathers for a complete exhibit!
Rare Fish
Venturing into the realm of rare catches in Animal Crossing: City Folk requires dedication and a bit of luck! These fish aren’t commonly found and offer substantial rewards for dedicated anglers. Prepare to spend some time casting your line for these prized specimens.
Notable rare fish include the majestic Arowana and the enormous Arapaima, both fetching 10,000 Bells each. The striking Stringfish is also a rare find, valued at 15,000 Bells. Finally, the powerful Tuna joins this exclusive group, promising a hefty payout for a successful catch!
Arowana
The Arowana is a highly sought-after rare fish in Animal Crossing: City Folk, known for its distinctive appearance and considerable value. This impressive fish can be found in the ocean, presenting a rewarding challenge for patient players.
Successfully reeling in an Arowana will earn you a handsome 10,000 Bells, making it a valuable addition to your museum collection or a profitable sale at Tom Nook’s store. Keep an eye out for its unique shadow and prepare for a thrilling battle to land this aquatic prize!

Arapaima
The Arapaima is another prized rare fish within Animal Crossing: City Folk, representing a significant achievement for dedicated anglers. Like the Arowana, this massive fish inhabits the ocean waters, demanding skill and a bit of luck to catch.

Landing an Arapaima rewards you with a substantial 10,000 Bells, contributing nicely to your growing fortune. Its impressive size and unique look make it a fantastic exhibit for your museum. Be prepared for a lengthy struggle when you spot its large shadow – patience is key!
Stringfish
The elusive Stringfish is a highly sought-after rare catch in Animal Crossing: City Folk, known for its unique appearance and considerable value. This fish can only be found in the ocean, and requires dedication to obtain.
Successfully reeling in a Stringfish will earn you a handsome 15,000 Bells, making it one of the more profitable fish in the game. Its distinctive, elongated body makes it a standout addition to any museum collection. Be vigilant and persistent, as its shadow can be tricky to identify amongst others!
Tuna
Tuna represents a significant prize for dedicated fishers in Animal Crossing: City Folk. This rare ocean dweller demands patience and a keen eye to successfully catch. It’s a valuable addition to both your museum and your bank account!
Landing a Tuna will reward you with 10,000 Bells, a substantial sum within the game. Its large shadow can be spotted in the ocean, but be prepared for a challenging fight! Keep your fishing rod steady and your reflexes sharp to reel in this impressive specimen and boast about your angling prowess.

Very Rare Fish
Prepare for the ultimate angling challenge! These fish are the most elusive in Animal Crossing: City Folk, requiring dedication and a bit of luck to acquire. Successfully catching one is a true accomplishment, showcasing your mastery of the fishing mechanics.
The Very Rare category includes the majestic Napoleonfish and the powerful Blue Marlin, both offering substantial rewards. The legendary Coelacanth, caught only during rainy or snowy conditions, also falls into this tier. These fish represent the pinnacle of your fishing journey, offering both prestige and significant Bell values.
Napoleonfish
A true prize for dedicated anglers! The Napoleonfish is a Very Rare fish in Animal Crossing: City Folk, renowned for its striking appearance and substantial value. This magnificent fish can be found swimming in the ocean, but be warned – it’s notoriously difficult to catch, demanding patience and skillful casting.
Successfully reeling in a Napoleonfish will reward you handsomely, both in Bells and museum donation points. Its rarity makes it a coveted addition to any collection, solidifying your status as a seasoned fisher. Prepare for a challenging, yet rewarding, pursuit!
Blue Marlin
Prepare for an epic battle! The Blue Marlin is another Very Rare ocean dweller in Animal Crossing: City Folk, presenting a significant challenge for even experienced players. Its large shadow and powerful movements make it a thrilling catch, requiring precise timing and a bit of luck.
Landing this majestic fish is a testament to your angling prowess, offering a substantial reward of 15,000 Bells. The Blue Marlin is a highly sought-after specimen for museum completionists and those aiming to amass a fortune. Good luck, and hold on tight!
Coelacanth ౼ Catching Conditions
A prehistoric prize awaits! The Coelacanth, a Very Rare fish, demands specific conditions for a successful catch in Animal Crossing: City Folk. You’ll need to fish in the ocean – and only the ocean – during rainy or snowy weather. Forget sunny days; this ancient fish prefers inclement conditions!
Furthermore, the optimal time to cast your line is between 4 PM and 9 AM. Be patient, as its shadow is quite large, but the reward – 15,000 Bells – is well worth the effort. Prepare for a unique angling experience!
New Fish Introduced in City Folk
Expand your aquatic collection! Animal Crossing: City Folk significantly broadened the fishing roster, introducing several new species to the series. Prepare to encounter the Pike, a freshwater predator, alongside the vibrant Neon Tetra, adding a splash of color to your catches.
The ocean gains the Surgeonfish and Butterfly Fish, showcasing diverse marine life. Additionally, the elusive Napoleonfish joins the Very Rare category; Don’t forget the Lobster, Moray Eel, and Ray, completing the exciting additions. Happy fishing and museum donating!
Pike
The Pike is a freshwater fish newly introduced in Animal Crossing: City Folk, offering a rewarding challenge for dedicated anglers. This predatory fish can be found in the river, adding a new target to your fishing expeditions. It’s a welcome addition for completing the museum’s fish collection.
While not exceptionally rare, the Pike requires patience and a keen eye to spot its shadow. Successfully landing this fish contributes significantly to your Bell earnings and overall fishing prowess. Keep casting and enjoy the thrill of the catch!
Neon Tetra
The Neon Tetra is a vibrant addition to the aquatic life in Animal Crossing: City Folk, representing one of the new fish species introduced in this installment. This small, brightly colored fish inhabits the river, offering a visually appealing catch for players aiming to complete their museum collection.
Though not particularly valuable in terms of Bells, the Neon Tetra’s unique appearance makes it a desirable find. Patient anglers will be rewarded with this beautiful fish, enhancing their fishing experience and contributing to a more diverse museum exhibit.

Surgeonfish
The Surgeonfish, a striking new addition to Animal Crossing: City Folk’s underwater world, adds a splash of color to the ocean environments. This fish, identifiable by its unique shape and markings, presents a rewarding challenge for dedicated players seeking to expand their museum’s aquatic display.
Found exclusively in the ocean, the Surgeonfish requires patience and a keen eye to locate. While not the most lucrative catch, its rarity and distinctive appearance make it a prized possession for any avid Animal Crossing angler, contributing to a complete and impressive collection.
Butterfly Fish
The vibrant Butterfly Fish gracefully joins the roster of catchable species in Animal Crossing: City Folk, offering a beautiful addition to any player’s collection. This ocean-dwelling fish is known for its striking patterns and delicate appearance, making it a favorite among collectors aiming for a complete museum exhibit.
Locating the Butterfly Fish requires diligent searching within the ocean depths. Though not exceptionally valuable in Bells, its rarity and aesthetic appeal make it a satisfying catch, enhancing the overall fishing experience and contributing to a diverse and colorful aquatic display.
Lobster, Moray Eel, and Ray

These three unique creatures represent exciting additions to the oceanic fishing possibilities within Animal Crossing: City Folk. Lobsters, Moray Eels, and Rays each present a distinct challenge and reward for dedicated anglers. They are found exclusively in the ocean, adding variety to the fishing locations.
While not the most common catches, successfully reeling in one of these creatures provides a significant sense of accomplishment. They contribute to museum completion and offer a decent Bell value, making the effort worthwhile for players seeking both collection and financial gains.
Tips for Catching Difficult Fish
Securing rare and valuable fish demands patience and strategy. For larger shadows, like the Tuna or Blue Marlin, ensure your rod isn’t upgraded too much – a moderately upgraded rod offers a better fight. Listen carefully for the “!” sound indicating a bite, and press ‘A’ at the precise moment.
Crafting and using fish bait significantly increases encounter rates. Rainy or snowy weather boosts the chances of finding specific fish, such as the elusive Coelacanth. Persistence is key; don’t give up after a few failed attempts!
Using Fish in City Folk
Fish serve multiple purposes beyond museum donations in City Folk. Naturally, they’re a primary source of income, with prices varying greatly depending on rarity – from a humble 300 Bells for a Killifish to 15,000 for an Arapaima!
Villagers may occasionally request specific fish as gifts, improving your friendship levels. Certain fish can also be used in cooking recipes, though this feature is limited. Ultimately, selling your catch remains the most common and lucrative use for your angling achievements.
Fish Prices and Bell Values
Bell values dictate profitability, and City Folk offers a wide range. Common catches like Sea Bass fetch a modest 400 Bells, while rarer specimens command significantly higher prices. Arowana and Arapaima both sell for 10,000 Bells, representing substantial rewards for patient anglers.
The elusive Stringfish is worth a remarkable 15,000 Bells! Keep in mind that Nook’s Cranny (or Timmy and Tommy) prices remain consistent. Strategic fishing and selling are key to maximizing your earnings and funding your town’s development.