The pond mechanics
A fish pond (built at the Carpenter’s Shop) holds one species — up to 10-12 fish per pond population. Fish produce roe every few days (value scales with the fish’s base price), and periodic population quests ask for a specific item (an item per fish added). Fulfill the quest, population grows, roe output rises.
The standouts
Sturgeon roe becomes caviar (the premium jar product) — the classic pond pick. Lava Eel roe sells high and the pond occasionally produces magma stone... spicy items; Super Cucumber ponds roll rare iridium-adjacent drops; Blobfish produce high-value roe plus random goodies. Rainbow trout occasionally drops a Prism Shard... a rainbow-shell prize that keeps the pond surprising.
Ponds versus fields
A pond’s daily value is lower than a maxed crop field per tile, but it costs zero labor after setup, works all winter, and fits odd corners of the farm. A row of ponds (one species each) is the winter income plan that pairs with the artisan shed.
Sources and standards
Where these figures come from
Every formula on this page is implemented from the published reference material below. Where a value depends on a regional code, the calculator lets you override it rather than assuming one jurisdiction.
- Stardew Valley — official site — the game of record; version notes and feature announcements come from here.
- ConcernedApe — the developer, and the authority on balance changes between updates.
Figures, formulas and reference tables last verified: 19 September 2026.
