This guide explores befriending Willy, the kindly old fisherman in Stardew Valley. He's a valuable early contact, providing a fishing rod and supplies. Building a friendship with him offers significant benefits.
Befriending Willy is straightforward and rewarding. Visit his shop (weekdays), or find him fishing (Saturdays and evenings). Gifts are key; he appreciates rare fish and valuable items.
Updated January 4, 2025, by Demaris Oxman: Willy's affection for specific gifts, especially books related to fishing, has expanded with the 1.6 update.
Gift Guide
Giving gifts is crucial for friendship. Remember Willy's birthday (Summer 24) for maximum friendship boost.
Loved Gifts (+80 friendship)
These gifts significantly increase friendship. Some, like rare fish, are challenging to obtain, but pumpkins and mead are readily accessible. He also values books and crafting 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)- All universally loved gifts
Liked Gifts (+45 friendship)
These are good alternatives to loved gifts. Willy enjoys most fish-based dishes.
- 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 gifts to prevent friendship loss.
- Foraged goods
- Non-fish-based cooked dishes
- Life Elixir
- Universally disliked/hated gifts (except fish – neutral, unless specified above)
Quests
Willy posts requests on the bulletin board. Completing them rewards gold and friendship. He also sends two fishing challenges via letter.
Friendship Perks
Willy shares four fishing-buff recipes as friendship levels increase: Chowder (+1 fishing), Escargot (+2 fishing), Fish Stew (+3 fishing), Lobster Bisque (+3 fishing, +30 max energy).
