This guide focuses on befriending Willy, a key character in Stardew Valley. Willy, the kindly old fisherman, is an early contact for players, providing a fishing rod and essential supplies. Building a friendship with him offers significant advantages.
Befriending Willy is straightforward and yields valuable rewards. Take time to interact with him at his shop (weekdays), his fishing spots (weekends), or the Stardrop Saloon (evenings). Gifts significantly boost your friendship level, especially on his birthday (Summer 24, 8x effect).
Gift Guide
Generosity is key to winning friends in Stardew Valley.
Loved Gifts (+80 Friendship):
These top-tier gifts significantly increase friendship. While some, like rare fish, require effort, pumpkins and mead are readily accessible. Willy also appreciates fishing-related books and valuable 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) - Universal Loved Gifts
Liked Gifts (+45 Friendship):
These are excellent alternatives if Loved gifts are scarce. Willy enjoys most fish-based cooked dishes.
- Fish-based cooked 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
- Universal disliked/hated gifts (except fish – neutral, unless specified above)
Quests & Friendship Perks:
Willy occasionally posts quests on the notice board, rewarding gold and friendship points upon completion. He also sends fishing-buff recipes at increasing friendship levels:
- 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)
Cultivating a strong friendship with Willy provides valuable resources and boosts your fishing skills. Remember to be generous and attentive, and you'll reap the rewards!
