Once the Scarlet Forest Base Camp is fully set up, you’ll find Kanya at the back of the camp, fishing in a small pond. Her quests become available right away, starting with an introduction to basic fishing mechanics. After completing her first quest, she’ll have another challenge for you to test your skills, this time, she asks you to catch a Goldenfish. These fish have distinctive golden scales and can be sold for a high price when captured.
Goldenfish Location in MH Wilds
Goldenfish can be found in every region of the game, but if you’re following Kanya’s fishing quests, the Scarlet Forest is your best bet. This area is teeming with life, especially aquatic creatures, making it an ideal place to search for Goldenfish. While you’re free to explore other regions, the Scarlet Forest offers a reliable spot to find what you need.
According to Kanya and the quest details, Goldenfish prefer cooler, darker environments, which means you’ll have the most luck finding them in caves. Their natural habitat keeps them hidden away from the open waters, so you’ll need to seek out these shaded spots.
The Scarlet Forest has several caves, but the most consistent and easily accessible location for Goldenfish is in Area 12. This spot is directly south of the Wudwud Hideout, making it a quick and convenient place to check.
To reach it, simply head south from the hideout and look for a cave hidden behind a waterfall. Once inside, keep an eye out for Goldenfish swimming in the deeper, shadowed areas of the cave waters. With the right approach, you’ll have no trouble catching one for Kanya’s quest.
How to Catch Goldenfish in MH Wilds
At the start of the game, you only have one type of bait, the Common Wood Minnow. While it’s a reliable option for attracting various fish, it’s not always the quickest way to catch a specific one. To make things easier, Kanya provides you with two additional bait types for this quest: the Golden Bughead and the Emerald Jitterbait.
For catching Goldenfish, you’ll want to use the Golden Bughead. To equip it, hold L1/LB while your Fishing Rod is out and scroll through your bait options, similar to switching Bow Coatings. Once selected, aim and cast your line. Goldenfish aren’t too picky, they’ll rush toward the bait as soon as it’s near them. You might also reel in some Goldenfry, which aren’t needed for the quest but drop valuable materials you can sell.
If the fish do not bite immediately, experiment with a little movement of the rod to catch their attention or reeling in the bait towards them. Such subtle movements attract them quicker. If a Goldenfish bites, simply reel it in with a steady grip to land your catch. After catching a Goldenfish, take it back to Kanya to finish the quest. She’ll greet you with her usual enthusiasm and reward you with a well-earned congratulations for your fishing skills.
