How to Master Fishing in Crimson Desert

A bearded man wearing a cloak holds a fish triumphantly. He stands by green vegetation and rocky terrain, exuding a sense of achievement.
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By Alexandria LopezStaff Writer

A bearded man wearing a cloak holds a fish triumphantly. He stands by green vegetation and rocky terrain, exuding a sense of achievement.
  • Primary Subject: Crimson Desert (Version 1.00.03 / 1.00.04)
  • Key Update: Players can now engage in a dedicated fishing minigame required for Annabella's Faction quest, featuring unique rod-tension mechanics.
  • Status: Confirmed
  • Last Verified: March 26, 2026
  • Quick Answer: To fish in Crimson Desert, buy a rod from Alden in Hernand for 15 copper, equip it near water, and press Q or L2/LT.

Looking for a relaxing activity in Crimson Desert? Then grab your rod and let's go fishing!

One of the activities you can do in Crimson Desert is fishing. Not only is it a chill thing you can do in the open world, but you actually need to do this to complete Annabella's Faction quest. But for some reason, fishing in Crimson Desert can be puzzling.

But don't worry, we've got your back. Here's everything you need to know about fishing in Crimson Desert.

How to Fish in Crimson Desert

You need to buy a fishing rod to go fishing in Crimson Desert. To get your hands on one, you'll need to buy it from a vendor.

Screenshot of a video game shop interface. A menu displays items like a fishing rod and shovel with prices. A character stands in a rustic wooden room.
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Credit: Pearl Abyss

In the early game, you can buy a fishing rod from Alden at the provisioner's shop, which is in the east of Oakenshield Manor in Hernand. One fishing rod goes for 15 copper coins. Another place to get a fishing rod is from Rodbell Fishing Doc, which is in the east of Hernand.

You won't need bait to fish in this game. Instead, you can immediately find a body of natural water to start fishing.

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Once you've found a body of water, equip the fishing rod and press Q (keyboard) or L2/LT (controller) to see if you can fish there. If you see a blue ring appear on the water, then that means you can throw your line in and start fishing.

A character in armor and a red shield fishes from wooden logs on a calm river, with a serene backdrop of waterfalls and greenery under a clear sky.
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Credit: Pearl Abyss

You need to wait until you hear the sound of splashing in the water - that means a fish is approaching your hook. Once the fish latches on, right-click on your mouse (keyboard) or R2/RT (controller) to reel it in.

The fish will try to fight back. To secure your chances of scoring the fish, move the rod to the opposite side of the fish's pull. When it tries to swim to the other side, loosen your grip on the line briefly. When the fish stops splashing, start reeling your line in again.

Where to Buy Fish in Crimson Desert

Want the fish but want to skip the fishing? Don't worry, can buy it from vendors in Hernand.

Fishing shop interface in a game, showing a wooden counter with a small pouch. A sidebar lists items like fishing rods and fish with prices and stock.
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Credit: Pearl Abyss

You can buy fish from Hailard's Fishing Shop at Rodbel Fishing Dock, which is in the southern part of Hernand. However, fish can get pricey - it might be better to catch it yourself.

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Here are all the fish you can buy from Hailand in Crimson Desert:

  • Pond Loach - 27 copper coins
  • Small Gudgeon - 27 copper coins
  • Small Rasbora - 27 copper coins
  • Tench - 79 copper coins
  • Yellow Bass - 85 copper coins

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