This guide delves into befriending Willy, the amiable fisherman in Stardew Valley. He's a key early contact, providing your initial fishing rod and ongoing supplies. Building a relationship with him offers significant advantages.

Updated January 4, 2025: This guide reflects the 1.6 update, including new book gifts.

Gift Guide

Giving gifts is paramount in Stardew Valley. Find Willy at his shop (weekdays), fishing (Saturdays), or at the Stardrop Saloon/beach/river (evenings). His birthday (Summer 24) multiplies gift effectiveness eightfold.

Loved Gifts (+80 Friendship)

These top-tier gifts significantly boost your friendship. While some (like rare fish) require effort, pumpkins and mead are readily accessible. Willy also appreciates fishing-related books and valuable materials.

• Fish: Catfish , Octopus , Sea Cucumber , Sturgeon
• Books: Jewels Of The Sea , The Art O' Crabbing
• Mead: (Honey in a Keg)
• Gold Bar: (Gold Ore in Furnace)
• Iridium Bar: (Iridium Ore in Furnace)
• Diamond: (Mines)
• Pumpkin: (Fall Crop)
• Universal Loved Gifts

Liked Gifts (+45 Friendship)

These are excellent alternatives if Loved gifts are scarce. Willy enjoys most fish-based dishes.

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

Disliked & Hated Gifts

Avoid these to prevent friendship decreases. Hated gifts are worse than disliked, but generally, steer clear of:

• Foraged goods
• Non-fish-based cooked dishes
• Life Elixir
• Universal disliked/hated gifts (except fish – Willy is neutral towards most fish, except those listed above)

Quests

Willy sometimes posts requests on the bulletin board outside Pierre's shop, rewarding gold and 150 friendship points upon completion. He also sends two letters with fishing challenges:

• Catch A Squid: (Winter 2, Year 1)
• Catch A Lingcod: (Winter 13, Year 2)

Friendship Perks

Willy shares four fishing-buff recipes as your friendship grows:

• Chowder: (+1 Fishing) at 3 hearts
• Escargot: (+2 Fishing) at 5 hearts
• Fish Stew: (+3 Fishing) at 7 hearts
• Lobster Bisque: (+3 Fishing, +30 Max Energy) at 9 hearts

This comprehensive guide ensures a successful friendship with Willy, unlocking his valuable rewards and enhancing your Stardew Valley experience.