East Lake Axewell

Your guide to East Lake Axewell in Pokemon Sword and Shield. Find items, learn about the Watt Trader, and prepare for Motostoke!

Alright, you're almost at Motostoke now! If you've been following along from Rolling Fields, you'll spot a glowing den right by the central lake. Just keep heading north from here, towards the big staircase that leads up to the city. You'll pass a couple of patches of tall grass, one close by on your right, and another one further ahead near the lake.

As you get to that second patch of tall grass by the lake, keep an eye out. To the east, there's a strong Pokémon, a Xatu, flying around. If you're feeling bold, there's a sparkling spot right in the middle of the dirt area where the Xatu is guarding. Go grab it – it's a hidden Poké Ball!

Keep pushing forward past all the tall grass until you see another glowing den near the lakeside. Just ahead, you'll find a big dirt area with paths leading left and right. If you go right, you might find a fisherman who'll trade you a random item for your Watts. Motostoke itself is just a short walk forward from here.

Before you head up the main staircase to Motostoke, take a moment to explore to the left. You'll find the Camping King here, who can change your tent's color and check out your Curry Dex. Right nearby, there's also a Watt Trader with a shop. You can spend your hard-earned Watts here.

Note on Watt Traders: These traders pop up in the Wild Area and sell special Poké Balls, Wishing Pieces (for Max Raid Battles), and random Technical Records (TRs). TRs teach moves, but they're single-use. Be aware that TRs are pretty expensive, and you might not be able to afford many with the Watts you earn early on. Don't stress too much about it now; you'll earn way more Watts after beating the game, which is the perfect time to stock up.

These vendors will be around, so get familiar with them. Once you're done exploring, it's time to head up the stairs to Motostoke.

Tip: Pokémon Checklist

The Pokémon you'll find around here are pretty similar to Rolling Fields. Most of the really interesting ones are in the lake, which you can't access yet. However, you can fish from the lakeside near the Motostoke entrance. Besides Magikarp, you might catch Goldeen, Shellder, and if you're really lucky, Wishiwashi. Since a Fire Gym is coming up soon, it might be a good idea to train one of these Water or Rock-types if your current team needs it.