This guide explores how to befriend Willy, the kind-hearted fisherman in Stardew Valley. Building a relationship with Willy offers valuable rewards, including fishing buffs and unique recipes.
Befriending Willy is straightforward, primarily achieved through gifting. Locate him at his shop (most weekdays), fishing (Saturdays), or at the Stardrop Saloon/beach/river (evenings). Remember his birthday, Summer 24th, when gifts have an eightfold effect.
Gift Guide
Loved Gifts (+80 friendship): These are Willy's favorites, significantly boosting friendship.
- Fish: Catfish, Octopus, Sea Cucumber, Sturgeon. (Images below)
- Books: Jewels Of The Sea, The Art O' Crabbing. (Images below)
- Mead: Crafted from Honey in a Keg. (Image below)
- Gold Bar: Smelted from Gold Ore. (Image below)
- Iridium Bar: Smelted from Iridium Ore. (Image below)
- Diamond: Found in the Mines. (Image below)
- Pumpkin: Grown during Fall. (Image below)
- Universal Loved Gifts: Any item universally loved by villagers.
Liked Gifts (+45 friendship): Good alternatives if Loved gifts are scarce.
- Fish-based Cooked Dishes: (excluding Dish O' the Sea, Sashimi, Maki Roll – neutral)
- Fish: Lingcod, Tiger Trout. (Images below)
- Quartz: (Image below)
- Bait and Bobber: (Image below)
Disliked & Hated Gifts: Avoid these to prevent friendship loss. Includes foraged goods, non-fish-based dishes, Life Elixir, and universally disliked items (except fish – Willy is neutral towards most fish, except those listed above).
Quests: Willy occasionally posts requests on the "Help Wanted" board, offering gold and friendship points upon completion. He also sends two letters with fishing challenges (Squid – Winter 2, Year 1; Lingcod – Winter 13, Year 2).
Friendship Perks: Reaching friendship levels unlocks four unique fishing buff recipes from Willy: Chowder (+1 fishing), Escargot (+2 fishing), Fish Stew (+3 fishing), and Lobster Bisque (+3 fishing, +30 max energy).
By following these tips, you can easily cultivate a strong friendship with Willy and reap the benefits!
