Fishing in Fallout 76
Screenshot via Bethesda

How to catch a fish in Fallout 76

Fishy update.

Things have got pretty “fishy” in Fallout 76 season 21, as all have enjoyed a new fishing minigame.

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You can start fishing easily by obtaining your first fishing rod, but things can be slightly confusing (especially if you’re someone new). This guide will provide you with all the essential details, starting with how to unlock fishing in the first place.

How to start fishing in Fallout 76 (Casting Off quest guide)

The first task is to initiate the Casting Off quest in Fallout 76, which is part of the new season. Go to the Mire Region on the Appalachia map. Open your Pip-Boy and tune your radio to catch the Linda-Lee Shortwave Signal broadcasting in the area.

You’ll gain access to a new location called the Fisherman’s Rest. You’ll meet Captain Raymon Clark and Linda-Lee at this location. Reach this Fisherman’s Rest to start the Casting Off quest, or speak with The Fisherman to get your first rod and initiate the quest.

The Fisherman in Fallout 76
Screenshot by Destructoid

How to catch fish in Fallout 76

Once you obtain the first Fishing Rod, your next job will be to catch fish. You’ll have to capture at least three of them in the quest.

To start catching fish, you’ll also need bait. There are three types of bait: Common, Improved, and Superb. For the first task, having Common Bait that costs four Caps per piece should be enough. Next, walk over to any deep water body like we do for collecting water. An option to fish will pop up on your screen. Selecting the option will cast your line, so just wait.

Option to fish in Fallout 76
Screenshot by Destructoid

Once a fish has caught your bait, wait for the bobber to go underwater. You’ll now have the option to reel in the fish. The minigame has a radar; you must move the LS to keep the fish highlighter on it. Keep doing this until the fish has been reeled in. While the fishing minigame is easy to master, note when the bobber goes under the water so as not to lose the bait.

How to upgrade your Fishing Rod in Fallout 76

The art of improving your Fishing Rod is locked behind catching more fish. As you complete the fishing challenges applicable for every season, you’ll gain access to more upgrades for your rod. You can apply these upgrades at either a Weapons Workbench or Tinker’s Workbench. Doing so is important to catch the Legendary Fish in the game.

How to capture Axolotl and Legendary Fish in Fallout 76

Once you have captured the ordinary fish, you can upgrade to legendary species and 12 different Axolotl. You’ll have to play the patience game for the latter since each month will spawn a new type. To capture all 12, you’ll have to play out 12 in-game months.

There are three legendary species to capture.

  • Wavy Willard: Found at Wavy Willard’s Water Park
  • Organ Grinder: Found at the Organ Cave
  • Ryl-Tkannoth, Maw-Begotten: Found at the Big Maw.

The odds of these species appearing will largely depend on the weather conditions, but their spawn rates are fairly low. It’s better to use good-quality bait to raise your chances of success.


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Arka Sarkar
Staff Writer