acnh may fish guide

ACNH May Fish Guide: Catch 'Em All This Month

By Steven LopezFebruary 2, 2026

Embarking on a fishing adventure in Animal Crossing: New Horizons (ACNH) can be an exciting yet daunting task, especially with the vast array of fish species and the time-sensitive nature of their appearances. To help you reel in the perfect catch, we've created this comprehensive guide, focusing on the May fish available in the Northern Hemisphere.

Before we dive in, let's familiarize ourselves with some essential fishing tips. First, ensure you have a fishing rod, which can be obtained from Nook's Cranny or crafted using a DIY recipe. Second, fish are attracted to specific types of water, so keep an eye out for shadows moving beneath the surface. Lastly, be patient and persistent; some fish may take multiple casts to catch.

May Fish in the Northern Hemisphere

The month of May brings a diverse selection of fish to the Northern Hemisphere's rivers, ponds, and sea. Here, we'll explore the fish you can catch, their habitats, and the best times to find them.

the animal crossing guide is shown in green

an animal crossing map with different types of animals and their names in each region, including the

the animal crossing guide is shown in green and yellow colors, with numbers on each side

May is characterized by the arrival of several unique fish species, including the coelacanth and the stringfish. Additionally, you'll find a mix of common and rare fish that can be caught throughout the year, such as the pond smelt and the giant trevally.

Freshwater Fish

Freshwater fish can be found in rivers and ponds on your island. Keep an eye out for these fish species in May:

the new fish arrival poster for whale shark week at north memphreon's aquarium

Pond Smelt: A small, silver fish that can be caught from rivers and ponds between 4 AM and 9 AM.
Crucian Carp: A medium-sized, goldfish-like fish that can be caught from rivers and ponds between 9 AM and 4 PM.
Koi: A large, colorful fish that can be caught from rivers and ponds between 9 AM and 4 PM. Koi fish are rare, so be prepared for multiple casts.
Stringfish: A rare, long, and thin fish that can be caught from rivers and ponds between 4 PM and 9 AM. Stringfish are highly sought after for their unique appearance and high sell value.

Saltwater Fish

Saltwater fish can be found in the ocean surrounding your island. Here are the fish species you can catch in May:

Barreleye: A small, yellow fish with a distinctive eye on its forehead. It can be caught from the ocean between 4 AM and 9 AM.
Giant Trevally: A large, silver fish with a black stripe running down its side. It can be caught from the ocean between 4 PM and 9 AM.
Oarfish: A long, red fish that can be caught from the ocean between 4 PM and 9 AM. Oarfish are rare and highly sought after for their unique appearance and high sell value.
Coelacanth: A large, blue fish with distinctive fins. It can be caught from the ocean between 9 AM and 4 PM. Coelacanths are rare and can only be caught once per day.

As you explore the various fishing spots on your island, remember to check the in-game time and the type of water you're fishing in to maximize your chances of catching the fish you desire. Happy fishing!