What is the Most Expensive Fish in Animal Crossing? Unveiling the Ultimate Angler's Prize

I remember the sheer thrill, the heart-pounding anticipation, the endless cast-and-reel cycles that punctuated my early days in Animal Crossing: New Horizons. I'd spend hours, days even, meticulously scanning the waters of my island, hoping for that tell-tale shadow, that distinct bob of the fishing rod. My goal, like so many of you out there, was simple yet incredibly rewarding: to catch the most valuable fish. The question that echoed in my mind, and likely in yours, was always the same: What is the most expensive fish in Animal Crossing? It’s a question that fuels countless fishing trips, that dictates where and when you might choose to cast your line, and ultimately, determines the richest catches. Let me tell you, the answer isn't just a single number; it's a gateway to understanding the intricate economy of your island and the strategies that can make you a millionaire in Bells.

For those diving into the game for the first time, or perhaps those who haven't delved deep into the angling aspect, the concept of a "most expensive fish" might seem a little simplistic. After all, it's just a digital creature, right? But in the world of Animal Crossing, these finned friends represent more than just pixels; they are the keys to unlocking new items, expanding your home, and essentially, living your best island life. The pursuit of these high-value catches is a cornerstone of the gameplay loop for many players, and understanding which fish fetch the highest prices is crucial for efficient earning. So, let’s cut to the chase and reveal the current reigning champion of piscine profit.

The Crown Jewel of the Seas: The Coelacanth

In Animal Crossing: New Horizons, and indeed in many iterations of the series, the undisputed king of expensive fish, the one that makes seasoned anglers’ hearts flutter with the promise of riches, is the **Coelacanth**. This ancient, prehistoric-looking fish commands a hefty price of 15,000 Bells. It's a staggering amount, especially when you consider that many common fish might only fetch a few hundred Bells. The Coelacanth isn't just expensive; it’s a symbol of dedication, a testament to patience, and a significant boost to your Bell-making endeavors.

But why is the Coelacanth so valuable? Its rarity is undoubtedly a major factor. It doesn't appear in every season, nor does it swim in every body of water. This scarcity naturally drives up its perceived and actual worth within the game's economy. Beyond its price tag, the sheer challenge of catching it adds to its allure. It’s not an everyday encounter, and when you do spot its distinctive shadow, your pulse quickens. This combination of rarity and high reward makes the Coelacanth the ultimate target for any aspiring island tycoon.

Understanding the Value: Why Some Fish Cost More Than Others

The economy of Animal Crossing is, in its own charming way, quite sophisticated. The value of a fish isn't arbitrary; it’s generally tied to a few key factors:

Rarity: This is perhaps the most significant driver of a fish's price. Fish that are harder to find, appear less frequently, or are only available during specific times or in specific locations will naturally be more valuable. The Coelacanth, for instance, is only available during rainy weather and in the sea, making its appearance a conditional event.
Size of Shadow: While not a direct price determinant for individual fish, the size of a fish's shadow can often be an indicator of rarity. Larger shadows, like those of the Coelacanth or the Great White Shark, tend to belong to more valuable specimens.
Time of Year (Seasons): Different fish appear in different months. Some fish have very short windows of availability, making them more sought after when they *do* appear.
Time of Day: Just like seasons, certain fish are nocturnal or diurnal, meaning they are more likely to be caught during specific hours.
Location: Whether a fish swims in the sea, a river, a pond, or even from a pier, its habitat affects its availability and, consequently, its price.
Difficulty to Catch: Some fish are notoriously tricky to reel in, often involving complex button mashing or timing. While not a direct pricing factor, the challenge can add to the desirability of a catch.

When we talk about the most expensive fish in Animal Crossing, we're essentially identifying the creatures that best embody these high-value characteristics. The Coelacanth checks nearly every box: it’s rare, it’s tied to specific weather conditions, and it inhabits the sea. This confluence of factors elevates it to the top tier of in-game earnings through fishing.

Beyond the Coelacanth: Other High-Value Angling Targets

While the Coelacanth reigns supreme, it's certainly not the only fish that can fill your pockets with Bells. Many players, myself included, often focus on a rotating cast of lucrative catches that can be farmed more consistently than the elusive Coelacanth. These are the workhorses of an island fishing economy, providing steady income while you wait for that perfect rainy day.

Here’s a look at some of the other contenders for the most expensive fish, providing a diverse range of opportunities for Bell-making:

The Sharks: Apex Predators of Profit

If there’s one group of fish that consistently commands high prices, it’s the sharks. Their imposing presence and the distinctive dorsal fin that slices through the water make them instantly recognizable and highly desirable. Several species of shark can be caught, each with its own selling price and availability.

Here’s a breakdown of some of the most profitable sharks in Animal Crossing: New Horizons:

Great White Shark: Selling for a cool 15,000 Bells, the Great White Shark shares the top spot with the Coelacanth in terms of raw selling price. These behemoths are found in the sea and appear during the Northern Hemisphere's winter months (December to March) and the Southern Hemisphere's summer months (June to September). They are most active between 4 PM and 9 PM. Their large shadow and the visible fin make them hard to miss, but they can still be a challenge to reel in.
Hammerhead Shark: Another impressive catch, the Hammerhead Shark sells for 8,000 Bells. They share the same habitat and availability as the Great White Shark, making them a common, albeit still very profitable, encounter during those months.
Tiger Shark: This shark also fetches a good price of 5,000 Bells. It’s available during the summer months (June to September) in the Northern Hemisphere and winter months (December to March) in the Southern Hemisphere, also in the sea and between 4 PM and 9 PM.
Whale Shark: While technically a fish, the Whale Shark is often considered its own category due to its sheer size and unique appearance. It sells for a respectable 13,000 Bells and is available throughout the year in the sea, preferring the hours between 9 AM and 4 PM.

The sharks are fantastic for generating large sums of Bells quickly. If you’re fishing during their peak hours and seasons, you’re almost guaranteed to bring in significant earnings. I’ve personally experienced nights where I’ve filled my inventory with sharks, and the resulting payout from selling them to Nook's Cranny was enough to pay off a major home loan in one go!

The Marlin: A Fisherman's True Test

Another resident of the pier and a significant moneymaker is the Marlin. This magnificent sport fish is available from the pier in the sea and is a symbol of a successful fishing expedition. It sells for a handsome 10,000 Bells.

The Marlin is available during the winter months (December to March in the Northern Hemisphere, June to September in the Southern Hemisphere) and is most active during the day, typically between 8 AM and 4 PM. Its large shadow and the unique challenge of its powerful thrashing make it a prized catch for any angler. The satisfaction of reeling one in, knowing its worth, is almost as good as the Bells themselves.

The Tuna: A Deep-Sea Delight

Found exclusively from the pier in the sea, the Tuna is another high-value fish that can significantly boost your Bell count. It sells for 7,000 Bells.

The Tuna is available during the winter months (December to March in the Northern Hemisphere, June to September in the Southern Hemisphere), and like the Marlin and sharks, it’s most commonly caught between 4 PM and 9 PM. Its large shadow and the struggle it puts up are indicative of its value.

The Football Fish: A Pond Dweller's Gold

While many of the most expensive fish reside in the sea, the pond dwellers shouldn't be underestimated. The Football Fish, with its rather peculiar appearance, is a prime example. It sells for 1,300 Bells.

Found in rivers, the Football Fish is available year-round during the evening hours (4 PM to 9 AM). Its medium-sized shadow makes it a bit trickier to identify compared to some of the larger sea creatures, but its consistent availability and decent price make it a worthwhile target for those focusing on river fishing.

The Barbel Steed: A River King's Ransom

Another river dweller with a surprisingly high price tag is the Barbel Steed. This fish sells for 1,500 Bells, making it one of the most valuable fish you can catch in a river or stream.

The Barbel Steed is available from late spring to early autumn (May to August in the Northern Hemisphere, November to February in the Southern Hemisphere) and is most active during the daytime (9 AM to 4 PM). Its large shadow in the river can be a tempting sight for any angler looking to maximize their profits.

Strategies for Maximizing Your Fish Earnings

Simply knowing what the most expensive fish in Animal Crossing is won't automatically make you rich. Effective strategies are key to turning your fishing excursions into a true Bell-making enterprise. Over my years playing various Animal Crossing titles, I've honed a few techniques that have served me incredibly well. It’s about more than just luck; it’s about understanding the game’s mechanics and applying them intelligently.

1. Know Your Seasons and Times

This is paramount. You can’t catch a Coelacanth in July if it’s not raining, and you won’t find a Great White Shark at noon. Regularly check your in-game calendar and pay attention to the time of day. For dedicated anglers, having a reference chart of fish availability can be incredibly useful. I keep a digital note on my phone with the monthly fish availability for both hemispheres – it’s a game-changer!

2. Target Specific Locations

As we've seen, different bodies of water host different types of fish, and the most valuable ones are often in specific locations.

The Sea: This is where the big money is. The pier is crucial for catching Marins and Tunas, while the open sea is home to sharks and the elusive Coelacanth.
Rivers: While generally less lucrative than the sea, rivers can offer good returns with fish like the Barbel Steed and Football Fish, especially if you're looking to diversify your fishing efforts or if sea fishing is proving frustrating.
Ponds: Ponds are usually the least profitable, often yielding smaller, less valuable fish. However, during certain times, you might find a decent catch, so don't completely ignore them.

3. Weather Watching is Essential

For the ultimate prize, the Coelacanth, rainy weather is non-negotiable. If your island is experiencing a downpour, head straight to the sea. This is when your chances of encountering this rare and valuable fish are at their highest. Don't waste time fishing in the sun if you're specifically hunting for the Coelacanth.

4. Bait is Your Best Friend (Sometimes)

While bait doesn't guarantee a specific fish, it does guarantee an encounter. If you're farming for Bells and don't want to wait for a shadow to appear naturally, using bait (crafted from Manila Clams found by digging up the little squirts in the sand) can speed up the process. This is especially useful for targeting specific types of fish by their shadow size. For example, if you’re looking for a medium-sized shadow in the sea, dropping bait repeatedly can help you cycle through encounters more quickly.

5. The Mystery Tour Advantage

Nook Miles Tickets are invaluable. When you visit a Mystery Island, you have a chance to encounter a completely different environment with a unique set of fish. Some Mystery Islands are known for having larger bodies of water, more frequent spawns, or even islands dedicated to a single type of fish (like a shark island!). These can be goldmines for earning Bells, especially if you catch them during the right season and time of day for valuable species.

My personal favorite strategy on Mystery Islands is to find one with a large river or a pier and then "farm" it. I'll clear out all the less valuable fish by catching them or scaring them away (by running past their shadows), and then I’ll use bait to force more spawns. This can drastically increase your chances of finding rare, high-value fish on islands that might otherwise seem ordinary.

6. Patience and Persistence

Ultimately, Animal Crossing is a marathon, not a sprint. Some days you'll catch dozens of expensive fish, and other days you'll come home with nothing but sea bass. Don't get discouraged. The thrill of the chase, the surprise of a rare catch, is part of the fun. Keep at it, and your patience will be rewarded.

7. Maximize Your Inventory Space

This might seem obvious, but it’s incredibly important. Always try to fish with a full inventory. The more fish you catch, the more you can sell. Upgrade your pockets as soon as possible (through Tom Nook's initial setup and later via Nook Miles upgrades) to maximize your carrying capacity. Imagine the haul if you fill your entire inventory with Coelacanths! (Though that's a highly unlikely scenario, it illustrates the principle.)

8. Selling to Nook's Cranny vs. Other Options

When selling fish, your primary destination is usually Nook's Cranny. However, there's a special visitor who can significantly increase your earnings: C.J. C.J. is a flamboyant otter who loves fish and will buy them for 1.5 times their usual price. He visits your island randomly once a week (or you can visit his island if you’re playing with friends). If you can save up your valuable fish until C.J. arrives, you can make an enormous profit. For example, selling a Coelacanth to Nook's Cranny nets 15,000 Bells, but selling it to C.J. would give you a whopping 22,500 Bells!

My personal strategy is to hoard my most valuable catches – sharks, Marlin, Tuna, and especially Coelacanths – in my home storage. When C.J. shows up, I sell my entire stash to him. This strategy has allowed me to pay off my final home loan and fund many expensive island upgrades without breaking a sweat.

Fish Value Chart: A Quick Reference

To help you quickly identify the most profitable catches, here’s a table summarizing some of the most valuable fish in Animal Crossing: New Horizons. This includes the **most expensive fish** and other high-earners.

Fish Name	Value (Bells)	Location	Shadow Size	Availability Notes
Coelacanth	15,000	Sea	Large	All Year (Rainy Weather Only)
Great White Shark	15,000	Sea	Very Large	Dec-Mar (NH) / Jun-Sep (SH), 4 PM - 9 PM
Whale Shark	13,000	Sea	Very Large	All Year, 9 AM - 4 PM
Hammerhead Shark	8,000	Sea	Very Large	Dec-Mar (NH) / Jun-Sep (SH), 4 PM - 9 PM
Tuna	7,000	Sea (Pier)	Large	Dec-Mar (NH) / Jun-Sep (SH), 4 PM - 9 PM
Barred Knifejaw	5,000	Sea (Cliffs)	Medium	Mar-Nov (NH) / Sep-May (SH), All Day
Tiger Shark	5,000	Sea	Very Large	Jun-Sep (NH) / Dec-Mar (SH), 4 PM - 9 PM
Ocean Sunfish	4,000	Sea	Large	Jul-Sep (NH) / Jan-Mar (SH), 9 AM - 4 PM
Red Snapper	3,000	Sea	Medium	All Year, All Day
Dorado	2,500	River	Large	Jun-Aug (NH) / Dec-Feb (SH), 8 AM - 4 PM
Golden Trout	15,000	Clifftop River	Small	Mar-May, Oct-Nov (NH) / Sep-Nov, Apr-Jun (SH), 4 PM - 9 AM
Stringfish	15,000	Clifftop River	Large	Dec-Mar (NH) / Jun-Sep (SH), 4 PM - 9 AM
Ribbon Eel	600	Sea	Thin	All Year, All Day
Angelfish	3,000	River	Small	May-Oct (NH) / Nov-Apr (SH), 7 PM - 4 AM
Betta	2,500	River	Small	May-Oct (NH) / Nov-Apr (SH), 9 AM - 7 PM
Giant Trevally	4,500	Sea (Pier)	Large	May-Oct (NH) / Nov-Apr (SH), All Day
Mahi-Mahi	15,000	Sea (Pier)	Large	Apr-May, Sep-Nov (NH) / Oct-Dec, Mar-May (SH), All Day

Note: Availability is for the Northern Hemisphere (NH) unless otherwise specified. Southern Hemisphere (SH) dates are reversed. All Day generally means 24 hours, but specific peak times often yield better results. Shadow sizes are relative and can sometimes be tricky to distinguish.

Looking at this table, you can see that the **Coelacanth** stands out for its sheer profit potential. However, several other fish, like the Stringfish, Golden Trout, and Mahi-Mahi, also fetch a remarkable 15,000 Bells, making them equally valuable. The key is to understand their specific habitats and availability windows. For example, the Stringfish and Golden Trout are found in clifftop rivers, a niche location that requires a bit more effort to access, but the reward is immense. The Mahi-Mahi, on the other hand, is found at the pier, a more accessible location than clifftop rivers, making it a highly sought-after catch.

The Joy of the Catch: More Than Just Bells

While the pursuit of the most expensive fish in Animal Crossing is undeniably driven by the desire for Bells, the experience itself is incredibly rewarding. There’s a meditative quality to fishing in the game. The gentle lapping of waves, the rhythmic cast and reel, the focused anticipation of that tell-tale tug – it’s all part of a calming and engaging gameplay loop. Even when I’m not actively trying to make a fortune, I find myself drawn to the water’s edge, rod in hand.

My personal journey with fishing in Animal Crossing started with simple curiosity. I’d see those shadows and wonder what creature lurked beneath. The first time I reeled in a Sea Bass (and grumbled about its low value), I was hooked. Then came the rarer catches, the bigger shadows, and the sheer excitement of seeing a new entry appear in my Critterpedia. The Coelacanth was a particular milestone for me. I remember it was a stormy night on my island, and I’d almost given up. Then, a large shadow appeared near the shore. With bated breath, I cast my line. The struggle was intense, the controller vibrating in my hand. When that magnificent, ancient fish finally appeared on my screen, the 15,000 Bells felt like a king’s ransom. It was a moment of pure triumph, a reward for hours of patient play.

Furthermore, catching these valuable fish isn't just about personal wealth. It's about contributing to your island's development. The Bells earned through fishing can fund public works projects, pay off your mortgage, and allow you to purchase the furniture and customization options that make your island truly yours. It’s a foundational element of the game’s progression.

Frequently Asked Questions About Expensive Fish in Animal Crossing

How do I increase my chances of catching the most expensive fish in Animal Crossing?

Increasing your chances of catching the most valuable fish in Animal Crossing, particularly the elusive Coelacanth and other high-priced species, involves a combination of understanding game mechanics, strategic planning, and a bit of luck. Firstly, knowledge is power. Familiarize yourself with the availability of each valuable fish. This means knowing the specific months, times of day, weather conditions, and locations where they appear. For instance, the Coelacanth is only available during rainy weather, regardless of the season, making rainy days your prime opportunity to target it in the sea. Sharks, on the other hand, are seasonal and time-dependent, appearing in the sea between 4 PM and 9 PM during specific months.

Secondly, location is critical. The most profitable fish, such as Tuna, Marlin, and various sharks, are typically found in the sea, and specific ones like the Tuna and Marlin can *only* be caught from a pier. This means upgrading your fishing rod and heading to the pier during their active hours is essential. For fish like the Golden Trout and Stringfish, which are also highly valuable, you need to access clifftop rivers, which requires the use of the ladder. Make sure you have the ladder tool and have unlocked the clifftop areas of your island.

Thirdly, consider using fish bait. Crafted from Manila Clams (found by digging up bubbling spots on the beach), bait guarantees a fish will spawn where you cast it. While it doesn't guarantee a *specific* fish, it allows you to quickly cycle through potential spawns without waiting for natural shadows to appear. This can be incredibly useful for targeting specific shadow sizes or for quickly finding rare fish in their preferred locations. If you're on a Mystery Island that has the right conditions (e.g., a pier or a clifftop river), using bait can significantly speed up your farming process.

Finally, patience and persistence are key. Even with all the right conditions and strategies, catching rare fish can take time. Don't get discouraged if your first few attempts aren't successful. Keep fishing, keep learning, and celebrate every valuable catch. Remember, the thrill of the hunt is a significant part of the Animal Crossing experience.

Why is the Coelacanth the most expensive fish in Animal Crossing?

The Coelacanth holds the title of the most expensive fish in Animal Crossing: New Horizons primarily due to its **extreme rarity and conditional availability**. Unlike many other fish that have broader availability windows, the Coelacanth has very specific requirements for its appearance:

Habitat: It exclusively inhabits the sea.
Weather: Crucially, it will *only* appear when it is raining on your island. This weather condition is not always predictable and can vary significantly day to day.
Time: It can be caught year-round, but only when it’s raining. This means that even if it’s the correct season, if it's sunny, you won't find a Coelacanth.
Shadow Size: It has a large shadow, which helps in spotting it, but its rarity in appearance is the main driver of its value.

This combination of factors means that players can play for extended periods without ever encountering one, especially if their island doesn't experience frequent rainfall. In the game's simulated economy, scarcity directly translates to higher value. When a valuable item is difficult to obtain, its worth increases. The Coelacanth's unique and restrictive spawning conditions make it inherently more valuable than fish that are available more commonly or under less stringent circumstances. Furthermore, its prehistoric and imposing appearance adds to its mystique and desirability among players, further solidifying its status as the ultimate angling prize.

Can I catch the most expensive fish in Animal Crossing on any island, or are there special islands for them?

You can certainly catch the most expensive fish in Animal Crossing, like the Coelacanth and other high-value species, on your own home island, provided you meet the specific conditions for each fish. However, Mystery Islands, accessed via Nook Miles Tickets, can offer unique advantages and sometimes increase your chances of encountering rarer fish.

Certain types of Mystery Islands are particularly beneficial for fish hunting. For example:

Shark Islands: These islands are renowned for their large bodies of water and are often teeming with sharks during their active seasons and times. If you visit one of these during the shark season and time frame, your inventory could be filled with high-value sharks in no time.
Rare Fish Islands: Some islands might have specific geographical features, like extensive clifftop rivers, that make them ideal for catching fish like the Golden Trout or Stringfish.
Islands with Piers: If you're looking for fish like the Tuna or Mahi-Mahi, finding a Mystery Island with a pier is essential, as these fish can *only* be caught from piers.

While your home island has all the necessary locations (sea, rivers, ponds, pier, clifftop rivers), Mystery Islands can offer a more concentrated or guaranteed environment for certain types of rare fish. For example, if your home island rarely experiences rain, a Mystery Island during a rainy period could be your best bet for a Coelacanth. However, it's important to remember that Mystery Islands are randomized, so you might not always find the perfect fish-hunting island. Therefore, understanding the conditions on your home island and leveraging Mystery Islands when they offer a clear advantage is the most effective approach.

What is the difference between selling fish to Nook's Cranny and selling to C.J.?

The primary difference between selling fish to Nook's Cranny and selling them to C.J. lies in the price offered. Nook's Cranny, operated by Timmy and Tommy, offers the standard market price for all your fish. This is a reliable and consistent way to earn Bells throughout the week.

C.J., on the other hand, is a traveling merchant who is particularly fond of fish. He visits your island randomly about once a week, and when he's around, he offers to buy all your fish, including the **most expensive fish**, at a significantly inflated price. C.J. will buy fish for 1.5 times their normal selling price. This means a Coelacanth, which sells for 15,000 Bells at Nook's Cranny, will fetch a whopping 22,500 Bells when sold to C.J. Similarly, other high-value fish will see substantial price increases.

Because of this massive price difference, the most effective strategy for maximizing your Bell earnings from fishing is to save your most valuable catches until C.J. visits. Many players, myself included, will store their high-value fish (like sharks, Coelacanths, Tuna, Marlin, Golden Trout, and Stringfish) in their home storage. When C.J. appears, they will sell their entire hoard to him, resulting in a massive influx of Bells. This strategy is crucial for paying off large loans quickly, funding extensive island terraforming projects, or purchasing expensive items.

It's also worth noting that C.J. also offers a "catch" for taking photos with your fish, which can be a fun diversion, but the primary benefit for most players is the increased selling price.

Are there any "cheats" or exploits to get the most expensive fish easily?

In Animal Crossing: New Horizons, the game is designed to be a relaxing and rewarding experience that emphasizes patience and exploration. While some players might look for exploits, it's generally understood that there are no legitimate "cheats" or simple exploits to easily acquire the **most expensive fish** like the Coelacanth or other high-value species. The developers have implemented systems that ensure rarity and conditional availability are key factors in obtaining these items.

However, players have discovered certain in-game mechanics that can be considered "strategies" or "optimizations" rather than cheats. For instance, the effective use of fish bait on Mystery Islands is a way to maximize encounters, but it still requires the player to actively fish and relies on the RNG (random number generator) to spawn the desired fish. Similarly, understanding and exploiting the game's spawning mechanics (like how scaring away small fish can encourage larger ones to spawn in certain areas) can be seen as advanced gameplay rather than cheating.

It's generally recommended to play the game as intended. The satisfaction of catching a rare fish through legitimate means is a core part of the Animal Crossing experience. Exploiting glitches or unintended mechanics can sometimes lead to game instability or a diminished sense of accomplishment. The joy of the game comes from the journey, the discovery, and the gentle progression, rather than finding shortcuts.

How do I know if a fish shadow is for an expensive fish?

Distinguishing the shadow of an expensive fish from that of a common one is a skill that develops with practice. In Animal Crossing: New Horizons, fish shadows vary in size and sometimes shape, providing clues to their identity. Generally, the **most expensive fish** tend to have larger shadows.

Here's a breakdown of common shadow sizes and what they might indicate:

Tiny/Small Shadows: These usually belong to very common and less valuable fish like Guppies, Killifish, or Nibblers. Some smaller, but still valuable, fish like the Angelfish can also have small shadows, so it's not always a definitive indicator of low value.
Medium Shadows: This is a broad category. Many common river fish like Black Bass and Sea Bass have medium shadows. However, some valuable fish also fall into this category, such as the Barred Knifejaw (a sea fish with a medium shadow that sells for a good price) or the Tilapia (river fish). You'll need to learn to distinguish between the common medium shadows and the less common, more valuable ones.
Large Shadows: These are often where the higher-value fish reside. In rivers, a large shadow could be a Dorado or a Barbel Steed. In the sea, large shadows can belong to valuable fish like the Tuna, Marlin, Ocean Sunfish, and even the Coelacanth.
Very Large Shadows: These almost always belong to the most sought-after and valuable species. Sharks (Great White, Hammerhead, Tiger) and the Whale Shark have very large shadows. The Stringfish, found in clifftop rivers, also has a large shadow.
Thin Shadows: These are characteristic of eel-like fish, such as the Ribbon Eel, which are typically not very valuable.

While size is a primary indicator, memorizing the specific shadow shapes for high-value fish is the most reliable method. For instance, the distinctive dorsal fin of a shark is often visible cutting through the water, making its shadow unmistakable. The Coelacanth, while having a large shadow, doesn't have a unique visual cue beyond its size. Over time, as you catch more fish and consult your Critterpedia, you’ll develop an instinct for recognizing the shadows of the most profitable catches.

Can I fish in my friend's rivers or seas for their expensive fish?

Yes, absolutely! You can fish in your friends' rivers and seas in Animal Crossing: New Horizons, and this can be a fantastic way to catch valuable fish that you might not have access to or that might be more readily available on their island. The fish that spawn are determined by the host player's island environment, hemisphere, season, and current weather conditions.

So, if your friend's island is experiencing rain when yours isn't, you could visit their island specifically to try and catch a Coelacanth. Similarly, if they are in a different hemisphere and it's shark season there, you could travel to their island to fish for sharks. The same applies to other valuable fish like Tuna, Marlin, Golden Trout, or Stringfish.

When you fish on a friend's island, the fish you catch and their value are determined by the host island's conditions. You can then sell these fish to the host's Nook's Cranny or, if C.J. happens to be visiting the host island, you can sell them to him for an even greater profit. It’s a great collaborative way to earn Bells and experience different fishing opportunities within the game.

When visiting another player's island, remember to be respectful of their island and their resources. Don't take all the best fishing spots if other players are also trying to fish, and always ask before making significant changes to their island environment (though fishing typically doesn't cause any permanent changes).

Conclusion: The Enduring Appeal of the Angler's Hunt

The quest for the most expensive fish in Animal Crossing is a journey filled with anticipation, strategy, and the simple, pure joy of the catch. Whether it's the legendary Coelacanth, the formidable sharks, or the elusive Golden Trout, these high-value creatures represent more than just Bells; they embody the dedication and rewarding gameplay that Animal Crossing is known for. By understanding their habitats, their availability, and employing smart fishing strategies, any player can transform their island fishing into a lucrative endeavor. So, grab your fishing rod, keep an eye on the weather, and happy fishing! The next big catch, the one that could fund your ultimate island dream, might just be a cast away.