If you’ve ever wondered how to catch rare water Pokémon in Pokémon Sword, mastering the fishing rod is your secret weapon. Using the fishing rod might seem simple, but knowing the right spots and techniques can make a huge difference.
In this guide, you’ll discover exactly how to use your fishing rod to reel in the best Pokémon and boost your team. Ready to become a fishing pro and catch Pokémon you didn’t even know existed? Keep reading, because your next big catch is just a cast away.

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Choosing The Right Fishing Rod
Fishing in Pokémon Sword requires the right rod for success. Different rods catch different Pokémon types. Knowing which rod to use helps you catch rare Pokémon.
This guide explains the three fishing rods you can use and their benefits.
Old Rod
The Old Rod is the first fishing rod you get. It is easy to find and use. This rod catches only common Pokémon near water.
- Good for beginners
- Catches weak Pokémon
- Found early in the game
Good Rod
The Good Rod is an upgrade from the Old Rod. It catches a wider variety of Pokémon. You can find it after some progress in the game.
| Feature | Old Rod | Good Rod |
|---|---|---|
| Pokémon Variety | Limited | Medium |
| Catch Rate | Low | Medium |
| Availability | Early Game | Mid Game |
Super Rod
The Super Rod is the best fishing rod available. It lets you catch rare and strong Pokémon. It is harder to get but worth the effort.
- Best catch rate
- Access to rare Pokémon
- Found late in the game
Where To Fish In Pokemon Sword
Fishing in Pokemon Sword lets you catch many water Pokemon. Different spots offer different catches.
Knowing where to use your fishing rod helps you find rare Pokemon easily. You can fish in lakes, rivers, and the sea.
Lakes And Ponds
Lakes and ponds are calm water spots found across the Galar region. They usually have easy-to-catch Pokemon.
- Lake of Outrage in Hammerlocke Hills
- Pond near the Bridge Field area
- Water spots in the Wild Area
Rivers
Rivers have flowing water and different Pokemon than lakes. Some rare Pokemon appear only in rivers.
| River Location | Common Pokemon | Rare Pokemon |
| Bridge Field River | Magikarp, Barboach | Gyarados |
| East Lake Axewell | Goldeen, Feebas | Milotic |
| West Lake Axewell | Poliwag, Psyduck | Poliwhirl |
Sea And Ocean Spots
The sea and ocean spots offer deep water fishing. You can catch strong and rare Pokemon here.
Best sea fishing spots include:
- Route 9 beach
- Stow-on-Side harbor
- Isle of Armor coastlines
Use your fishing rod at the edge of docks or shorelines for the best chance to catch strong water Pokemon.
Steps To Cast Your Line
Fishing in Pokémon Sword lets you catch water Pokémon using a fishing rod. You need to know how to cast your line properly to find Pokémon.
This guide explains the steps to use your fishing rod well. Follow the tips to have a better fishing experience.
Selecting The Rod
There are different rods in Pokémon Sword. Each rod works for different types of water and Pokémon.
- Old Rod:Good for catching common water Pokémon near the shore.
- Good Rod:Allows you to catch better Pokémon in deeper waters.
- Super Rod:The best rod for rare Pokémon in the deepest waters.
Casting Technique
Casting your line correctly helps you reach the right fishing spot. Use these steps to cast well.
- Stand near water where you want to fish.
- Open your bag and select the fishing rod.
- Press the button to cast your line into the water.
- Aiming is automatic, so just wait for the float to move.
Waiting For A Bite
After casting, watch the float carefully. It will tell you if a Pokémon is interested.
| Float Movement | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Float stays still | No Pokémon near the hook |
| Float dips underwater | A Pokémon is biting |
| Float moves side to side | A Pokémon is trying to bite |

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Catching Pokemon With The Rod
Using a fishing rod in Pokémon Sword lets you catch water Pokémon. You need to find water spots to fish. Fishing can bring rare Pokémon to your team.
This guide explains how to recognize bites, reel in Pokémon, and which Pokémon are common to catch with the rod.
Recognizing Bites
You will see splashes or ripples on the water when a Pokémon bites. Wait for the right moment before pulling the rod. If you pull too soon, the Pokémon will escape.
- Watch for water movement near the bobber.
- Listen for a splash sound.
- Be patient and wait until the bobber dips underwater.
- Do not pull the rod too early or too late.
Reeling In Pokemon
Once the Pokémon bites, press the button to reel it in. Keep the tension steady to avoid breaking the line. Use quick taps to pull the Pokémon closer.
- Press the reel button after the bite.
- Keep the tension steady by balancing reeling and waiting.
- Use quick taps to stop the Pokémon from escaping.
- Continue until the Pokémon is caught.
Common Fishing Pokemon
Here are some common Pokémon you can catch using the fishing rod in Pokémon Sword. They vary by location and water type.
| Pokemon | Type | Location |
| Magikarp | Water | Most water bodies |
| Goldeen | Water | Lakes and rivers |
| Barboach | Water/Ground | Swampy water areas |
| Chewtle | Water | Rivers and ponds |
| Feebas | Water | Specific fishing spots |
Tips To Improve Fishing Success
Fishing in Pokémon Sword helps you catch water-type Pokémon easily. Using the fishing rod correctly increases your chances.
These tips will help you fish better and get more Pokémon encounters while fishing.
Using Bait And Items
Bait helps attract Pokémon to your fishing spot. Using special items can also improve fishing results.
- Use Wishing Pieces to increase shiny Pokémon chances when fishing.
- Cast your line near water ripples for higher encounter rates.
- Bait can be thrown to lure Pokémon, but it is not available in all areas.
- Use the Super Rod to catch stronger and rarer Pokémon.
Best Times To Fish
Time of day affects which Pokémon appear when fishing. Some Pokémon only appear at certain times.
- Fish early morning or late evening for rare Pokémon.
- Night fishing can yield different species than daytime fishing.
- Check the in-game clock to plan your fishing trips.
Increasing Encounter Rates
More encounters mean better chances to catch Pokémon. Use these tips to increase your fishing encounters.
- Fish in spots with visible water ripples to find more Pokémon.
- Use the Super Rod for higher encounter rates and stronger Pokémon.
- Stay patient and keep reeling in when you see a bite.
- Use items like the Wishing Piece to boost shiny Pokémon chances.
Fishing Challenges And Rewards
Using a fishing rod in Pokémon Sword adds fun and excitement to the game. Players can take on fishing challenges to catch unique Pokémon.
These challenges offer special rewards and chances to find rare Pokémon. Understanding how to fish well helps you get the best results.
Fishing Tournaments
Fishing tournaments are special events where players compete to catch the biggest or rarest Pokémon. These events test your fishing skills and timing.
During tournaments, you need to reel in Pokémon quickly and carefully to avoid losing them. Winning gives you exclusive items and prizes.
- Participate at specific locations in the game
- Catch the biggest Pokémon to score points
- Use the right bait and fishing rod for better chances
- Complete tournaments to earn unique rewards
Rare Pokemon Catches
Fishing lets you find Pokémon that do not appear elsewhere. Some rare Pokémon only show up when you use a fishing rod in certain spots.
You can increase your chance of catching rare Pokémon by using special rods and fishing in different water bodies across the game map.
- Use the Old Rod for basic water Pokémon
- The Good Rod helps catch stronger water types
- The Super Rod is best for rare and powerful Pokémon
- Try fishing in lakes, rivers, and the sea
Earning In-game Rewards
Fishing rewards players with valuable items and Pokémon. These rewards help you in battles and completing your Pokédex.
You can earn berries, special fish, and even held items by catching Pokémon with your rod. Some rewards improve your fishing success.
- Fishing can give you rare berries used for healing
- Caught Pokémon may hold useful items
- Winning tournaments grants money and trophies
- Completing fishing tasks adds to your game progress

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Frequently Asked Questions
How Do You Get A Fishing Rod In Pokémon Sword?
You receive the fishing rod from a fisherman in the Wild Area. Visit the fishing spot to meet him and get the rod. This allows you to fish for water-type Pokémon in various locations throughout the game.
Where Can I Use The Fishing Rod In Pokémon Sword?
Use the fishing rod at water bodies like lakes, rivers, and ponds. Look for splashing spots in the Wild Area or towns. Casting your line there can help you catch different water Pokémon.
What Pokémon Can I Catch With The Fishing Rod?
You can catch various water-type Pokémon like Magikarp, Gyarados, and Barboach. The Pokémon available depend on the location and time of day. Using the fishing rod increases your chances to find rare water Pokémon.
Can I Use The Fishing Rod During Battles?
No, the fishing rod is only used outside battles to catch Pokémon. It cannot be equipped or used during gym battles or raids. Use it to find and add water Pokémon to your team.
Conclusion
Fishing with a rod in Pokémon Sword adds fun and variety. It helps you find water Pokémon easily. Cast your line near water spots to catch them. Patience and timing improve your chances to succeed. Keep trying different locations to discover new Pokémon.
Enjoy exploring and catching while using the fishing rod. It makes your adventure more exciting and rewarding. So grab your rod and start fishing today!