Reel in the Legendary: Your Ultimate Guide to Final Fantasy XV's Best Fishing Spots and Rare Catches
There's a unique kind of magic in Final Fantasy XV that happens when you put the Regalia in park, set up camp as the sun dips below the horizon, and trade the Engine Blade for a fishing rod. For Prince Noctis, fishing isn't just a side hobby; it's a passion, a connection to his past, and surprisingly, one of the most deep and rewarding mini-games in any modern RPG. But with the vast waters of Eos stretching from the Crown City to Altissia, knowing where to cast your line for the truly legendary catches can feel overwhelming.
This guide is your trusted companion, your personal Navyth, ready to walk you through the very best fishing locations and the secrets to landing every single rare fish. We're not just listing spots; we're giving you the strategy, the bait, and the know-how to transform you from a novice angler into the true Monarch of the Mere.
Gearing Up: The Foundation of a Master Angler
Before we journey to the secret fishing holes, let's talk preparation. You wouldn't face a Red Giant with a starter sword, so don't expect to land a legendary fish with a basic rod and line.
- Rods and Reels: Your progression is key. Start with the equipment from the fishing spots at Galdin Quay. As you level up your fishing skill by catching new species and bigger fish, you'll gain access to better gear. The Endurance Rod from Vesperpool is a crucial mid-game upgrade, but the ultimate prize is the Reel Love, obtained by completing all of Navyth's quests. It's non-negotiable for the final challenges.
- Line Strength: Your line is just as important. The Dragon's Beard line, also a reward for high skill, is essential for the strongest fish, as anything weaker will snap under their immense pressure.
- Bait is King: This is the most critical element for rare catch locations. Every fish has a preferred type of bait. Using the wrong bait means you'll never even see the fish you're after. We'll specify the perfect bait for each legendary target. Stock up on a wide variety from fishing shops, especially the Vesperpool Worm and the Crimson Lobster.
With your toolkit ready, let's explore the crown jewels of Eos's fishing spots.
The Three Legendary Waters: Prime Fishing Locations in Eos
While you can fish in many places, three locations stand head and shoulders above the rest for their diversity, challenge, and the sheer power of the fish that lurk beneath their surfaces.
1. The Vesperpool: The Ultimate Test
Unlocked after completing the "A Gentlemen's Agreement" quest, the Vesperpool is the premier endgame fishing destination. It's home to the most formidable freshwater foes and the final quest from Navyth.
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The Prize Catch: The Liege of the Lake (Pink Jade Gar) This isn't just a fish; it's a boss battle with a fin. The Pink Jade Gar is the undisputed king of Final Fantasy XV's waters, a massive, relentless fighter that will test your gear and your patience to their absolute limits.
- Where to Find It: Cast your line from the wooden pier on the western side of the Vesperpool, near the Myrlwood forest entrance.
- The Perfect Bait: You must use the Vesperpool Worm. Nothing else will attract this behemoth.
- The Strategy: This fight is a war of attrition. The Liege of the Lake has a massive health pool and will perform powerful, rapid tugs. Do not rush. Hold your ground, reel only when the fish is tired (indicated by the on-screen prompt and slowed struggling), and be prepared for a long, tense battle that can last several minutes. If your line tension meter hits red for even a second, it's likely game over.
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Other Notable Vesperpool Catches:
- Platinum Myrlrout: A valuable and strong fish found in the same area. Use the Crimson Lobster bait.
- Lucian Catfish: A common but large catch, great for building your fishing skill level.
2. Altissia: A Saltwater Spectacle
The romantic city of canals offers a completely different fishing experience. Accessed through the private pier near the hotel, this spot is all about powerful saltwater species.
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The Prize Catch: The Regal Arapaima While the Vesperpool has the Liege, Altissia has the Regal Arapaima, a monstrous fish that serves as the climax of the "A Fisherman's Tale" questline in the city.
- Where to Find It: At the private fishing spot in Altissia.
- The Perfect Bait: You'll need the Cat's Paw bait to lure this giant out.
- The Strategy: Similar to the Liege, the Regal Arapaima is incredibly strong. It uses long, charging runs that can quickly drain your line durability. The key is controlled reeling—short, steady bursts when it's not actively pulling, and constant attention to your tension meter.
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Other Notable Altissia Catches:
- King Catfish: A huge and challenging fish, perfect for practicing for the Regal Arapaima. Try using Sheep Milk bait.
- Gilded Sea Bass: A rarer, high-value catch in these waters.
3. The Vannath Coast & Galdin Quay: Early Game Gems
Don't overlook the early-game locations! The area around Galdin Quay and the broader Vannath Coast region is a fantastic training ground and home to some surprisingly tricky rare fish.
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The Prize Catch: The Coraldevil (King of the Three Valleys) This vibrant and elusive fish is the target of one of Navyth's earlier quests, "The Professor's Protege," and it's a significant step up in difficulty from the fish you'll have encountered before.
- Where to Find It: Head to the Three Valleys area, specifically the small pond just north of the Coernix Station - Alstor outpost.
- The Perfect Bait: The Crimson Lobster is your ticket to finding this beauty.
- The Strategy: The Coraldevil is fast and feisty. It will change directions quickly and give short, sharp tugs. The challenge here is reaction speed and not over-reeling during its frantic phases.
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Other Notable Coastal Catches:
- Nebra Grouper: Found in the waters right off the pier at Galdin Quay. A great fish for mid-level anglers.
- Electro Lamprey: A unique catch found in the Coernix Station - Alstor pond, requiring specific bait like the Leirperch.
Mastering the Mechanics: Tips for Landing Every Rare Fish
Knowing the location and bait is half the battle. The other half is execution.
- Patience is a Virtue: Rare fish won't always bite immediately. If you're not getting a bite after a dozen casts with the correct bait, move slightly to a new spot on the pier or bank and try again.
- Listen and Feel: Pay close attention to the controller vibrations and the sound cues. A strong, persistent rumble indicates a large fish. The "tug" sound effect is your signal to pull back on the rod.
- Manage Tension, Not Just the Reel: Your primary goal is to keep the line tension in the yellow or high green. Constantly holding the reel button will snap your line instantly against a powerful fish. Tap the reel button in rhythm with the fish's movements.
- Level Up Your Skill: Your fishing skill level, visible in the Ascension grid, directly reduces the stamina drain on Noctis. Invest in the relevant skills and simply catch a lot of fish to make the legendary battles much more manageable.
- Use the Right Food Buff: Before you head out, eat a meal at a campfire or restaurant that boosts your HP and Strength. While it doesn't directly affect fishing, the extra health can be a lifesaver if you get ambushed on the way to a remote spot.
From the serene dawn of the Vannath Coast to the epic twilight struggle in the Vesperpool, the fishing game of Final Fantasy XV offers a profound and satisfying journey. It’s a test of skill, preparation, and perseverance. So grab your best rod, stock up on the right bait, and head to these legendary fishing spots. The title of Eos's greatest angler, and the stories of the legendary fish you'll conquer, await. Happy fishing
