← Back to blog

Gravid Bowfin Guide | Monster Hunter Wilds

Nolan

Nolan

3/2/2025

#Monster Hunter Wilds#Fishing#Rare Items#Guides

Introduction to the Gravid Bowfin

The Gravid Bowfin is one of the rarer aquatic creatures found in Monster Hunter Wilds. Distinguished by its elongated body and vibrant orange-red coloration, this fish species is highly sought after by hunters for both its culinary value and material uses. Unlike its more common green counterpart, the Virid Bowfin, the Gravid Bowfin features distinctive protective scales on its head that aren't actually biological components but rather collections of materials gathered by the fish for defense against threats.

Where to Find Gravid Bowfin

Gravid Bowfin can be found exclusively in the Windward Wetlands region of the Forbidden Lands. Specifically, they inhabit the following fishing spots:

  • Windward Wetlands Camp: Check the small pond near the camp
  • Windward Wetlands Central Area: The large body of water in the central region
  • Flowing River: The river that runs through the eastern part of the Wetlands

Gravid

What makes the Gravid Bowfin particularly challenging to catch is that they only appear during specific weather conditions. For best results, try fishing during clear weather or after light rain. Many hunters report higher success rates during daytime hours, though they can occasionally be caught at night as well.

Fishing for Gravid Bowfin

Required Equipment

To successfully catch a Gravid Bowfin, you'll need:

  • A fishing rod (available from the Supply Box at camp)
  • Bait: Insect Paste works well, but Premium Bait will increase your chances significantly

Fishing Technique

  1. Identify the right spots: Look for areas with calm, clear water where you can see fish swimming
  2. Cast your line: Aim for spots where you see ripples or fish movement
  3. Wait patiently: Gravid Bowfin are cautious and may take time to bite
  4. React quickly: When you get a bite (indicated by the controller vibration and visual cue), press the action button immediately
  5. Time your pulls: Follow the on-screen prompts to successfully reel in the fish

The Gravid Bowfin puts up more resistance than common fish, so be prepared for a challenging catch. If you're struggling, consider using the Fishing Skill food buff before heading out.

The "Fishing for Flavor" Quest

Many hunters first encounter the Gravid Bowfin during the "Fishing for Flavor" optional quest, which requires you to catch one of these elusive fish for the chef at Sekhmet. This quest becomes available after completing several main story missions and serves as an excellent introduction to the more advanced fishing mechanics in Monster Hunter Wilds.

To complete this quest:

  1. Accept "Fishing for Flavor" from the Quest Board
  2. Head to the Windward Wetlands
  3. Catch a Gravid Bowfin using the techniques described above
  4. Return to Sekhmet to complete the quest

The reward includes zenny, research points, and a special meal ingredient that the chef will use to create a new food buff option.

Uses for Gravid Bowfin

Once caught, Gravid Bowfin serves several valuable purposes:

Culinary Uses

  • Special Meals: The chef can prepare dishes that provide the "Fisher's Fortune" buff, increasing your chances of catching rare fish
  • Rations: Can be grilled for a quick stamina boost during hunts

Crafting Materials

  • Armor: Contributes to several water-resistant armor pieces
  • Weapons: Used in upgrading certain water-element weapons
  • Decorations: A component in crafting jewels that enhance fishing abilities

Trading Value

  • Gravid Bowfin can be sold for a decent amount of zenny
  • More valuable when traded to specific NPCs who request them for their collections

Tips for Successful Gravid Bowfin Fishing

  1. Bring Ghillie Mantle: Fish are easily spooked by nearby monsters or combat
  2. Check Weather Conditions: Clear weather increases spawn rates
  3. Use the Surveyor Set: This skill helps identify fishing spots more easily
  4. Patience is Key: Sometimes you'll need to wait for the Gravid Bowfin to appear among other fish
  5. Bring Friends: In multiplayer, you can cover more fishing spots simultaneously

Conclusion

The Gravid Bowfin represents one of Monster Hunter Wilds' more challenging collection tasks, but the rewards are well worth the effort. Whether you're completing the "Fishing for Flavor" quest, crafting specialized gear, or simply enjoying the fishing mini-game, mastering the art of catching this elusive fish adds another layer of enjoyment to your monster hunting adventures.

Happy fishing, hunters!