"How to Befriend Willy in Stardew Valley: Tips and Tricks"

A grizzled yet kind-hearted fisherman, Willy is often one of the first NPCs players encounter in Stardew Valley. Known for gifting the player a fishing rod, teaching them essential techniques, and always being available for supplies, Willy quickly becomes a familiar face. His easygoing demeanor makes befriending him straightforward, offering players useful benefits along the way.

With the 1.6 update, Willy's list of favorite gifts has expanded significantly. This guide covers everything players need to know about building a strong relationship with Willy in the latest version of the game.

Gift Guide

The best way to strengthen bonds in Stardew Valley is through generosity. Willy can be found in his shop most weekdays or fishing on Saturdays. In the evenings, he frequents the Stardrop Saloon or spends time fishing at the beach or river.

Remember, Willy’s birthday falls on Summer 24. Any gift given on this day will have an eightfold impact on friendship.

Loved Gifts

These gifts yield the highest friendship boost of 80 points. Some are rare finds, like hard-to-catch fish, but popular options include mead and valuable crafting materials.

• Fish: Catfish, Octopus, Sea Cucumber, Sturgeon
• Books: Jewels Of The Sea, The Art O' Crabbing
• Mead: , crafted by fermenting Honey in a Keg
• Gold Bar: , made from Gold Ore in the Furnace
• Iridium Bar: , made from Iridium Ore in the Furnace
• Diamond: , mined from the Mines
• Pumpkin: , harvested in Fall
• Universal Loves

Liked Gifts

If Loved gifts prove challenging, these alternatives provide a solid friendship boost of 45 points each.

• Cooked Fish Dishes: All dishes containing fish, except Dish O' the Sea, Sashimi, and Maki Roll (neutral).
• Fish: Lingcod, Tiger Trout
• Quartz:
• Bait And Bobber:

Disliked & Hated Gifts

Avoid these to prevent decreasing friendship.

• Foraged Goods
• Non-fish Cooked Dishes
• Life Elixir
• Universal Dislikes (except fish)
• Universal Hates

Quests

Occasionally, Willy posts requests on the "Help Wanted" board outside Pierre's shop. Completing these tasks rewards players with gold and 150 friendship points.

• Catch A Squid: On Winter 2, Year 1, Willy challenges players to catch this elusive creature. Success grants gold and +1 friendship heart.
• Catch A Lingcod: On Winter 13, Year 2, another challenge awaits. Catching a lingcod earns more gold and another friendship heart.

Friendship Perks

As Willy grows closer, he shares valuable recipes. Each offers unique fishing buffs, making him an invaluable ally for anglers.

• Chowder: Sent at Three Hearts. Restores 101 health and 225 energy, +1 fishing buff.
• Escargot: Sent at Five Hearts. Same stats as Chowder, +2 fishing buff.
• Fish Stew: Sent at Seven Hearts. Restores health and energy, +3 fishing buff.
• Lobster Bisque: Sent at Nine Hearts. Restores health and energy, +3 fishing buff, +30 max energy. Perfect for long fishing sessions!