How to Catch Betta Fish in New Horizons
Our guide shows you exactly how to catch betta fish in New Horizons, including where they spawn, what shadow size to look for, and the best tips for reeling them in quickly. You will learn seasonal availability, rare variant chances, and how to earn bells from every catch. Whether you are a beginner or a seasoned player, these strategies will help you add this stunning fish to your collection.
If you have been playing Animal Crossing: New Horizons and want to add the beautiful betta fish to your collection, you are in the right place. Catching rare fish can feel tricky, especially when you do not know where to look or what time of year they appear. This guide breaks down everything you need to know about catching betta fish in New Horizons.
The betta fish is one of the most sought-after creatures in the game. Its vibrant colors and flowing fins make it a prized addition to any aquarium or display. But finding and catching one takes a bit of patience and the right strategy. We will walk you through every step, from understanding spawn times to landing the catch of a lifetime.
Whether you are trying to complete your Critterpedia, earn some bells, or just love the thrill of the hunt, this article has you covered. Let us dive right in and get you catching betta fish like a pro.
Key Takeaways
- Betta fish spawn in rivers and ponds during specific months, so timing matters a lot.
- Look for medium-sized shadows to identify betta fish before casting your line.
- Use fish bait crafted from manila clams to increase your chances of finding rare species.
- Sell betta fish to C.J. or Re-Tail for the best bell rewards.
- Check the Critterpedia regularly to track which fish you have caught and which ones are still missing.
- Betta fish appear in both Northern and Southern Hemispheres but at different times of the year.
📑 Table of Contents
What Is the Betta Fish in New Horizons?
The betta fish is a freshwater creature that appears in rivers and ponds on your island. It belongs to the small fish category in terms of shadow size. In the game, the betta fish sells for a solid amount of bells, making it a worthwhile target for any fishing enthusiast.
Here are some quick facts about the betta fish in New Horizons:
- Shadow Size: Small to medium
- Habitat: Rivers and ponds
- Spawn Months (Northern Hemisphere): June through September
- Spawn Months (Southern Hemisphere): December through March
- Spawn Time: 4 AM to 9 PM
- Sell Price: 2,400 bells (base price at Re-Tail)
- Rarity: Uncommon
Knowing these basics helps you plan your fishing trips more effectively. You will not waste time casting your line in the ocean when betta fish only appear in freshwater spots.
When and Where to Find Betta Fish
Seasonal Availability
Timing is everything when it comes to catching betta fish. In the Northern Hemisphere, they appear from June through September. If you are playing on the Southern Hemisphere, your window is December through March. Outside of these months, betta fish will not spawn on your island.
This means you need to be ready during these specific seasons. Mark your calendar and set reminders so you do not miss the opportunity. The betta fish does not appear year-round, so every fishing session during spawn season counts.
Best Locations on Your Island
Betta fish spawn in rivers and ponds, not in the ocean or cliffs. Look for the small bodies of water on your island. The river mouth where fresh water meets the sea is also a possible spot, but the fish tend to stay upstream in calmer pools.
Here are the best places to cast your line:
- River pools with slow-moving water
- Ponds near the center of your island
- River bends where the current slows down
- Cliff-side waterfalls where the water pools
Walk along the riverbanks and listen for the sound of splashing. When you see a fish shadow, stop and observe its size. The betta fish has a distinctive small-to-medium shadow that helps you identify it before you cast.
How to Catch Betta Fish Step by Step
Step 1: Craft a Fishing Rod
Before you can catch any fish, you need a fishing rod. You can craft one using five tree branches. Simply hit trees with your shovel to drop branches, then head to a workbench to assemble the rod.
If you already have a fishing rod, make sure it is in good condition. You can also buy rods from Nook’s Cranny or Tim’s shop when they visit your island.
Step 2: Craft Fish Bait
Fish bait is a game-changer for catching rare fish like the betta. You can craft fish bait using one manila clam. Manila clams spawn on the beach, and you can dig them up by pressing A near the small holes in the sand.
Using fish bait does not guarantee a betta fish, but it does increase your chances of encountering rare species in the water you target. Toss the bait into a river pool and wait for a fish shadow to appear.
Step 3: Identify the Betta Shadow
This is the most important skill in fish hunting. When a shadow appears in the water, watch its size and movement carefully. The betta fish has a small shadow that moves in short bursts. It darts around quickly, which can make it tricky to hook.
Compare the shadow size to the fish list in your Critterpedia. If the shadow looks small and the fish is moving erratically, it could be a betta. Cast your line just ahead of the shadow and wait for the fish to swim toward your lure.
Step 4: Reel It In
Once the fish bites, the real challenge begins. You will see a splash and the float will go underwater. Quickly press A to hook the fish, then start reeling in by pressing and holding A.
The key to reeling in a betta fish is patience. Keep the fish near the center of the catch meter. If it pulls away, let out some line by pressing A briefly, then reel in again. Do not panic and crank the rod too fast, or the fish will escape.
When the fish tires out and the catch meter turns green, keep reeling steadily until you see the fish flopping into your inventory. Congratulations, you caught a betta fish!
Tips for Catching Rare Fish Faster
Catching rare fish like the betta requires more than just casting a line and hoping for the best. Here are some expert tips that will speed up your fish hunting:
- Fish during spawn season only. Do not waste time fishing for betta fish outside of June through September (Northern Hemisphere) or December through March (Southern Hemisphere).
- Use fish bait in every river pool. Tossing bait into each pool you visit increases the number of fish encounters significantly.
- Save before each catch attempt. If the fish escapes, you can reload your save and try again without losing your bait.
- Walk slowly along the river. Moving too fast can scare away fish shadows before you even see them.
- Check the shadow size carefully. If the shadow does not match the betta fish size, move on to the next pool instead of wasting bait.
- Visit mystery islands. Some island tours have better fish spawn rates, which can increase your chances of finding rare species.
If you want to learn more about general fish hunting strategies, check out our guide on how to get better fish in New Horizons for additional tips and tricks.
Betta Fish Value and Rewards
The betta fish is worth a nice amount of bells. At Re-Tail, you can sell a regular betta fish for 2,400 bells. However, if you sell it to C.J., who visits your island occasionally, he will offer you 3,600 bells. That is a 50% bonus, which adds up fast if you catch multiple bettas.
Beyond bells, catching a betta fish contributes to your Critterpedia completion. It also counts toward your Nook Miles goals if you have active fishing-related tasks. Some fish models can be displayed in your house or donated to Blathers at the museum.
Here is a quick comparison of selling options:
| Selling Option | Price (Bells) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Re-Tail | 2,400 | Standard base price |
| C.J. | 3,600 | 50% bonus applied |
For more information about selling fish and earning bells efficiently, you can also read about how to get better fish in Animal Crossing New Horizons to maximize your profits.
Common Mistakes When Catching Betta Fish
Even experienced players make mistakes when hunting for betta fish. Here are some common errors to avoid:
- Fishing in the ocean. Betta fish only spawn in freshwater rivers and ponds. Casting into the sea will never yield a betta.
- Fishing out of season. If you are playing in October and cannot find bettas, it is because they are not spawning right now. Wait until the correct season.
- Reeling in too fast. Yanking the rod aggressively causes the fish to escape. Stay calm and reel steadily.
- Ignoring shadow size. Not every shadow in the water is a betta. Watch for the small-to-medium shadow specifically.
- Not using bait. While you can catch bettas without bait, using fish bait dramatically increases your encounter rate with rare fish.
Avoiding these mistakes will save you time and frustration. Focus on the right spots, the right season, and the right technique, and you will be catching betta fish in no time.
Adding Betta Fish to Your Aquarium
Once you have caught your betta fish, you have several options for displaying it. You can place it in a fish tank inside your house, donate it to the museum, or sell it for bells.
If you want to create a beautiful aquarium display, consider placing the betta fish in a large tank with other compatible small fish. The vibrant colors of the betta look stunning against a dark gravel background with some aquatic plants.
For tips on caring for your betta fish display or setting up a proper aquarium, check out our guide on how to care for betta fish in a bowl for helpful aquarium setup ideas.
Conclusion
Catching betta fish in New Horizons is a rewarding experience that requires patience, timing, and the right technique. By knowing the spawn months, visiting the right locations, and using fish bait strategically, you can add this beautiful fish to your collection with confidence.
Remember to fish during the correct season, watch for the right shadow size, and reel in calmly. Whether you are selling your catches for bells, completing your Critterpedia, or simply enjoying the beauty of the game, the betta fish is a fantastic target.
Now that you have all the knowledge you need, grab your fishing rod, head to your nearest river pool, and start casting. Happy fishing, and may your next betta catch be a rare one!
Frequently Asked Questions
What months do betta fish spawn in New Horizons?
In the Northern Hemisphere, betta fish spawn from June through September. In the Southern Hemisphere, they appear from December through March. Outside of these months, you will not find bettas in rivers or ponds.
How much is a betta fish worth in New Horizons?
A regular betta fish sells for 2,400 bells at Re-Tail. If you sell it to C.J., he offers 3,600 bells thanks to his 50% bonus. This makes the betta a solid earner for casual fishers.
Where exactly do betta fish spawn on the island?
Betta fish spawn in freshwater rivers and ponds. Look for slow-moving pools along the river, pond areas near the island center, and spots where waterfalls create calm pools of water. They do not appear in the ocean.
Can you catch betta fish without fish bait?
Yes, you can catch betta fish without bait, but using fish bait increases your chances of encountering rare fish significantly. Craft bait from manila clams and toss it into river pools for the best results.
How do you identify a betta fish shadow in the water?
The betta fish has a small to medium-sized shadow that moves in short, quick bursts. It darts around erratically, which helps distinguish it from other small fish. Compare the shadow to your Critterpedia for confirmation before casting.
What is the best time of day to catch betta fish?
Betta fish can be caught anytime between 4 AM and 9 PM. There is no specific time of day that is better than another, so you can fish for them throughout the entire day during their spawn season.
