If you’re hunting for the elusive Goldenfish in Monster Hunter Wilds, prepare to dive into shadowy caves and hidden pools far from sunlight. These shimmering aquatic creatures are not just rare trophies-they’re key to completing Kanya’s early side quest, “Seeking the Goldenfish.” The best spots? Secret underwater caves behind waterfalls in the Scarlet Forest, especially around Areas 8 and 12, and the cave systems in the Windward Plains. Equip the Golden Bughead lure, cast your line in these dark, tranquil waters, and soon you’ll be reeling in Goldenfish scales worth a hefty sum-while uncovering some of the game’s most serene fishing locations.
Where to find a goldenfish location in Monster Hunter Wilds
Goldenfish in Monster Hunter Wilds can be found primarily in dark, secluded fishing spots such as caves and areas away from direct sunlight. The best locations to catch Goldenfish include the caves in the Scarlet Forest, especially around Areas 8 and 12, where hidden underwater caves behind waterfalls provide ideal habitats. They are also found in the Windward Plains, Oilwell Basin, and Iceshard Cliffs, but the Scarlet Forest caves are the most reliable spots. Using the Golden Bughead lure, which is given during the “Seeking the Goldenfish” side quest, significantly increases your chances of catching them. These fish are valuable for their golden scales, which can be sold for a good amount of zenny.
To find a goldenfishlocation, you’ll have to head deep into the Scarlet Forest. You’re heading to Area 12 – the closest pop-up camp is Area 12: Northeast.
Once there, head toward the waterfall in the northeast. There’s an exquisite fossil deposit right there so you can easily set a waypoint for your seikret.
Go through it to find an area where you can dive in and swim underwater. Don’t dive in, though. Instead, just stand at the edge of the rocks and you’ll see several goldenfish and platinumfish swimming around.
How to catch a goldenfish in Monster Hunter Wilds
To catch a Goldenfish in Monster Hunter Wilds, head to dark, calm water areas away from direct sunlight, such as caves in the Scarlet Forest (Areas 8 and 12), Windward Plains (Area 14), Oilwell Basin, or Iceshard Cliffs. The best method is to use a fishing rod equipped with the Golden Bughead lure, which you receive from the side quest “Seeking the Goldenfish” given by Kanya. Setting up a pop-up camp near these fishing spots, especially in the hidden caves behind waterfalls, allows safe and extended fishing sessions. If no Goldenfish appear, fast travel to another camp to reset the spawn. Catching Goldenfish yields valuable Golden Scales needed for quests and crafting.
In the water, goldenfish look like the other kinds of arowana.
There’s not a lot of subtlety to catching goldenfish. Just equip the golden bughead lure that Kanya gave you. Goldenfish seem to love it, and will go for it on sight. Platinumfish are the same way. Just cast the lure vaguely in front of them and they’ll bit almost immediately.
Goldenfish scales sell for 1,000 zenny and platinumfish scales sell for 2,000.
Want to know the secret cave behind waterfalls for Goldenfish in Scarlet Forest
The secret cave behind the waterfall for catching Goldenfish in the Scarlet Forest is located just north of Area 8. To find it, head to the smaller waterfall north of Area 8’s underground lake campsite and enter the hidden cave behind it. Inside, you’ll discover a cozy fishing spot often crowded with Goldenfish and Platinumfish. This cave is a prime location because Goldenfish prefer darker, shaded waters away from sunlight. Using the Golden Bughead lure given by Kanya will increase your chances of catching them here. You can even set up a pop-up camp nearby for easy access and fast travel.
What makes the cave behind the waterfall in area 12 ideal for Goldenfish
The cave behind the waterfall in Area 12 is ideal for catching Goldenfish because it offers a dark, shaded environment that these rare fish prefer, away from direct sunlight. The natural shelter and calm waters inside the cave create a perfect habitat where Goldenfish tend to gather, making it a prime fishing spot. Additionally, the cave’s secluded location helps maintain a stable aquatic ecosystem, increasing the chances of encountering Goldenfish compared to more exposed areas. This combination of darkness, tranquility, and natural cover is what makes the Area 12 waterfall cave an optimal location for Goldenfish in Monster Hunter Wilds.
