Getting Started with Fishing
Fishing in Black Desert Online offers a relaxing yet profitable way to engage with the game world. It's a life skill that can be pursued by any adventurer, regardless of their combat prowess. To begin, you'll need a fishing rod. The most basic rod can be obtained from a Fishing NPC in most major towns, such as Velia or Epheria. Once you have your rod, find a suitable body of water – rivers, lakes, and the ocean all offer different types of fish. Look for shimmering spots on the water's surface; these indicate a higher chance of catching fish.
The Fishing Minigame
When you cast your line, a minigame will commence. A fishing bar will appear, and you'll need to press the spacebar to cast your line. Once a fish bites, a new interface will pop up. A bobber will appear, and a fish icon will move erratically. Your goal is to keep the fish icon within the highlighted bar by pressing the appropriate directional keys (W, A, S, D) as indicated on screen. Timing and quick reflexes are key. Successfully completing the minigame rewards you with a fish. The rarity and type of fish depend on your fishing level, the location, and the time of day.
Improving Your Fishing Efficiency
As you fish, your Fishing skill level will increase. Higher fishing levels grant you a better chance of catching rarer fish and reduce the time it takes to reel them in. You can also equip fishing-enhancing gear. The Epheria Fishing Rod is a popular early-to-mid-game option, offering increased fishing speed. Later, you can aim for the Grandus Fishing Rod or even the highly sought-after Tuna Fishing Rod. use Fishing Suits and Fishing Boat upgrades to further boost your efficiency. Consider using Tuna Bait or other specialized baits to attract specific types of fish.
Selling Your Catch
The fish you catch can be sold to Fish Merchants in various towns. However, for maximum profit, consider processing them. Drying fish can increase their value, and cooking them into dishes can yield even greater returns. Some fish are also used in alchemy or as ingredients for other crafting professions. Keep an eye on the Central Market to see which fish are in high demand. Furthermore, certain rare fish can be traded to specific NPCs for valuable rewards.