Stardew Valley: Willy's Friendship Guide

This guide explores befriending Willy, the kind-hearted fisherman in Stardew Valley. He's a valuable early contact, providing a fishing rod and supplies. Building a friendship with him offers significant advantages.

Befriending Willy is straightforward and rewarding. Visit his shop (weekdays), or find him fishing (Saturdays, evenings at the Stardrop Saloon, beach, or river). Gifts significantly boost your friendship level. Rare fish are particularly appreciated!

Updated January 4, 2025: The 1.6 update added more loved gifts, including fishing-related books.

Gift Guide

Gifts given on Willy's birthday (Summer 24) provide an 8x friendship boost.

Loved Gifts (+80 friendship):

• Fish: Catfish (), Octopus (), Sea Cucumber (), Sturgeon ()
• Books: Jewels Of The Sea (), The Art O' Crabbing ()
• Mead ()
• Gold Bar ()
• Iridium Bar ()
• Diamond ()
• Pumpkin ()
• All universally loved gifts

Liked Gifts (+45 friendship):

• Most fish-based cooked dishes (excluding Dish O' the Sea, Sashimi, Maki Roll)
• Fish: Lingcod (), Tiger Trout ()
• Quartz ()
• Bait and Bobber ()

Disliked & Hated Gifts: Avoid foraged goods, non-fish-based dishes, Life Elixir, universally disliked items (except for fish – Willy is neutral towards most fish not listed above).

Quests:

Willy posts quests on the bulletin board outside Pierre's, rewarding gold and friendship points upon completion. He also sends two letters, challenging you to catch specific fish (Squid - Winter 2, Year 1; Lingcod - Winter 13, Year 2).

Friendship Perks:

Willy shares four fishing-buff recipes at increasing friendship levels: Chowder (+1 fishing, 3 hearts), Escargot (+2 fishing, 5 hearts), Fish Stew (+3 fishing, 7 hearts), Lobster Bisque (+3 fishing, +30 max energy, 9 hearts).