This guide focuses on befriending Willy, a key character in Stardew Valley. Willy, the kindly old fisherman, is a valuable ally, offering fishing supplies and crucial fishing knowledge. Building a strong friendship with him yields significant benefits.
Befriending Willy is straightforward, primarily achieved through gift-giving. Locate him at his shop (most weekdays), fishing (Saturdays), or at the Stardrop Saloon/beach/river (evenings). Remember his birthday is Summer 24; gifts on this day provide an 8x friendship boost.
Gift Guide
Loved Gifts (+80 Friendship): These are the most effective gifts.
- Fish: Catfish
, Octopus 
, Sea Cucumber 
, Sturgeon 
- Books: Jewels Of The Sea
, The Art O' Crabbing 
- Mead:
(Made with Honey in a Keg) - Gold Bar:
(From Gold Ore in a Furnace) - Iridium Bar:
(From Iridium Ore in a Furnace) - Diamond:
(Found in Mines) - Pumpkin:
(Grown in Fall) - Universal Loved Gifts
Liked Gifts (+45 Friendship): Good alternatives to Loved gifts.
- Fish-based Cooked Dishes: (Except Dish O' the Sea, Sashimi, Maki Roll – these are neutral)
- Fish: Lingcod
, Tiger Trout 
- Quartz:
- Bait and Bobber:
Disliked & Hated Gifts: Avoid these to prevent friendship loss.
- Foraged Goods
- Non-fish Cooked Dishes
- Life Elixir
- Universal Disliked/Hated Gifts (except fish; Willy is neutral towards most fish not listed above)
Quests (+150 Friendship): Complete requests on the "Help Wanted" board for gold and friendship points. Two specific fish-catching challenges are sent via letter: Catch a Squid (Winter 2, Year 1) and Catch a Lingcod (Winter 13, Year 2).
Friendship Perks: Reaching friendship levels unlocks unique fishing buff recipes from Willy:
- 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)
By following this guide, you can effectively cultivate a strong friendship with Willy and reap the rewards.
