This guide delves into befriending Willy, the amiable fisherman in Stardew Valley. He's a key contact early on, providing a fishing rod and essential supplies. Building a strong relationship with him offers significant advantages.
Updated January 4, 2025: This guide reflects the 1.6 update, including new books Willy appreciates.
Gifting Willy:
Find Willy at his shop (most weekdays), fishing (Saturdays), or at the Stardrop Saloon/beach/river (evenings). His birthday (Summer 24) multiplies gift effectiveness eightfold.
Loved Gifts (+80 Friendship):
These are top choices for maximizing friendship points.
- 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).- All universally loved gifts.
Liked Gifts (+45 Friendship):
Solid alternatives if loved gifts are scarce.
- Fish-based cooked dishes (excluding Dish O' the Sea, Sashimi, Maki Roll).
Lingcod, 
Tiger Trout.
Quartz.
Bait and Bobber.
Disliked/Hated Gifts: Avoid foraged goods, non-fish-based dishes, Life Elixir, universally disliked/hated items (except fish – Willy is neutral towards most fish not listed above).
Quests (+150 Friendship):
Willy posts requests on the bulletin board. Completing them rewards gold and friendship. He also sends two fishing challenges via letter: Catching a Squid (Winter 2, Year 1) and a Lingcod (Winter 13, Year 2).
Friendship Perks:
Reaching friendship milestones unlocks Willy's cooking expertise:
- 3 Hearts: Chowder (+1 Fishing)
- 5 Hearts: Escargot (+2 Fishing)
- 7 Hearts: Fish Stew (+3 Fishing)
- 9 Hearts: Lobster Bisque (+3 Fishing, +30 Max Energy)
These recipes offer significant fishing buffs.
