Fishing is an integral aspect of Stardew Valley, contributing to the game’s warm and inviting atmosphere. Among the many fish players encounter, the Smallmouth Bass stands out. Whether your goal is to become the top angler in Pelican Town or fulfill a request from Demetrius, this fish is essential to your fishing adventures.
Though the Smallmouth Bass may not shine like more valuable fish, such as the Lava Eel, it still plays a significant role in your inventory and can enhance the ambiance of your pond.
Understanding the Smallmouth Bass in Stardew Valley

The Smallmouth Bass is a common species found in freshwater, noted for its susceptibility to pollution. It’s relatively easy to catch early in the game, boasting a low difficulty rating of 28. This makes it an accessible target, especially for novice fishermen.
While it does not contribute to any Community Center bundles, the Smallmouth Bass has multiple uses that can elevate its value within the game.
Optimal Locations for Catching Smallmouth Bass

Top Spots to Catch Smallmouth Bass
To increase your catch rate, target these two prime locations:
- Town River: Located within Pelican Town.
- Forest Pond: Situated in the Cindersap Forest.
These locations yield plenty of Smallmouth Bass during the appropriate seasons, making fishing a breeze.
Best Seasons and Times to Catch Smallmouth Bass
Catch timing is forgiving, as this fish bites at any hour and in all weather conditions, which is a considerable advantage. However, the prime seasons for fishing are:
- Spring and Fall: These are the optimum times for catching Smallmouth Bass.
Catching Smallmouth Bass: Strategies and Tips

Catching a Smallmouth Bass is quite straightforward. Equip your fishing rod, head to one of the mentioned locations, and cast your line. Due to its mixed behavior and low difficulty level, you won’t have to struggle much to reel one in. While any standard rod works, using superior gear can speed up the process of accumulation.
If you find yourself in a pinch, you might purchase a Smallmouth Bass from the Traveling Cart, typically priced between 150 g and 1,000 g, though these prices are often deemed excessive. Additionally, keep an eye on Garbage Cans during Spring and Fall; you might find a Bass hidden away.
Utilizing Smallmouth Bass in Stardew Valley

What are the practical uses of Smallmouth Bass beyond just fishing?
- Selling: It fetches between 50 g to 100 g as a base price, and can earn even more if benefited by the Fisher or Angler perks.
- Roe Production: Place them in a Fish Pond where they reproduce every two days, up to a maximum of 10 fish. The resulting dark brown Roe can be aged for higher profits.
- Crafting and Dyeing: Use them in crafting a Fishing Vest with the Sewing Machine, or in dye pots to create orange dye.
- Quests: Keep an eye on the Help Wanted board, especially during Spring and Fall, as it may request a Smallmouth Bass, awarding you with gold and friendship points. NPCs like Willy and Demetrius may also seek them.