This guide focuses on befriending Willy, a key character in Stardew Valley. Willy, a seasoned fisherman, is an early contact for players, providing a fishing rod and essential supplies. Building a strong relationship with him offers significant advantages.
Befriending Willy is straightforward. Visit his shop on weekdays or find him fishing on Saturdays. Evenings find him at the Stardrop Saloon or fishing by the beach/river. Gift-giving is crucial; remember his birthday (Summer 24) for an 8x friendship boost.
Gift Guide
Loved Gifts (+80 Friendship): These are the best options.
- 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): Good alternatives if loved gifts are scarce.
- Cooked fish 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 loss. Foraged goods, non-fish cooked dishes, Life Elixir, universally disliked/hated items (except for fish – neutral, unless specified above).
Quests: Willy posts requests on the "Help Wanted" board. Completing them rewards gold and 150 friendship points. He also sends two letters with fishing challenges (Squid – Winter 2, Year 1; Lingcod – Winter 13, Year 2).
Friendship Perks: Willy shares four fishing-buff recipes as friendship increases: Chowder (3 hearts), Escargot (5 hearts), Fish Stew (7 hearts), Lobster Bisque (9 hearts). () (
) (
) (
) (
)
This comprehensive guide ensures a successful friendship with Willy, unlocking his valuable rewards and enhancing your Stardew Valley experience.