Reel in the Fun: Uncover the Unrivaled Fishing Experience in Final Fantasy 14's Eorza

MMORPG Final Fantasy 14 offers a vast array of activities beyond the typical monster battles and chocobo riding. While popular attractions like PvP Crystalline Conflict, Unreal raids, and Gold Saucer minigames capture attention, there are also more peaceful and immersive ways to experience the enchanting world of Eorzea.

One such opportunity is found in the Disciple of the Land classes, which focus on mining, botany, and fishing. These classes provide a chance for players to momentarily step away from the fast-paced life of a revered Warrior of Light and instead embrace the tranquility of the natural surroundings. Among these classes, the Fisher stands out as particularly unique.

Fruity Snacks, an avid Fisher in Final Fantasy 14, humorously remarked, "There's literally dozens of us," as he discussed his passion for the craft with GameRant. He explained that catching big fish in the game is not a quick task, but rather a long and rewarding process. It allows players to explore areas that are not part of any quest and experience them in unique moments. For example, if a rare fish appears during unusual weather conditions, such as a thunderstorm, players must patiently wait for the fish to bite after casting their line. This provides them with the opportunity to take in the breathtaking surroundings, like the Lochs at sunset, where one can find these stunning rare fish.

While many games include fishing as a side activity, Final Fantasy 14 sets itself apart by emphasizing the complexity and depth of its fishing mechanics. Fruity highlights that the game showcases this depth through its diverse range of fish species. With over 1,000 unique fish, each displaying distinctive behaviors and preferences towards certain types of bait, players are presented with a captivating and immersive fishing experience. Although fish in Final Fantasy 14 can be enticed by various bait and lures, their response time depends on their individual preferences.

In keeping with the authenticity of real fishing, catching a fish is never a guaranteed outcome, regardless of a player's statistics. Fruity, an expert on the subject, explains that this is just one way in which the game effectively mirrors the real-world fishing experience. He draws a parallel between fishing in the game and the Blue Mage limited job, noting that both share similarities with their more popular counterparts, but offer a greater level of complexity and a distinct playstyle that sets them apart.

He goes on to compare the game's fishing mechanics to those found in fishing simulations like Ultimate Bass Hunter, rather than games like Stardew Valley or Guild Wars 2. In Guild Wars 2, for instance, players cast their line into a designated spot and must use a specific type of bait. There is a fishing power that determines the player's ability to successfully catch a fish, but the actual process of fishing boils down to a reflex-based game where players must keep a moving bar within another bar. Final Fantasy 14, on the other hand, diverges greatly from this approach. It focuses on creating a seamless connection with the game's environment, using it as a foundation for its mechanics and gameplay elements.

But that shouldn't discourage a new angler. The game's fishing quests provide excellent instruction on the mechanics and help players develop the right mindset for fishing. Whether it's casting away from Limsa Lominsa's dock, spearfishing, ocean fishing, or other variations, these quests not only guide players through the subtle mechanics but also emphasize how the class is designed to facilitate communication with the natural world within the game.

Fruity not only provides fishing guides, but also manages the Eorzea Aquarium in the popular game Final Fantasy 14. This interactive aquarium showcases the diverse range of fish that players can catch, while also hosting events specifically designed to assist new players in mastering the art of fishing and reeling in impressive catches. Fruity, an experienced angler himself, recently achieved an impressive feat by successfully catching a fish known as the Cinder Surprise on his very first attempt. This accomplishment garnered him praise and envy from the game's fishing community. Fueled by his desire to share the exhilaration of triumph with fellow fishermen, Fruity's aquarium has become a hub for players to experience the joy and satisfaction that fishing can bring. For many players, fishing in Final Fantasy 14 goes beyond the simple act of casting a line; it allows them to immerse themselves in the captivating world of Eorza, appreciate its intricate worldbuilding, visually pleasing aesthetics, and of course, the wide array of fascinating fish species that inhabit it.

“Fishing is just a ton of fun, please do it … if you enjoy the game, fish, because then you'll enjoy the world even more.”

Final Fantasy 14 is available now for PC, PS4, and PS5.