Pokémon GO has become a global sensation, captivating millions of trainers eager to catch and train a variety of Pokémon. Among these, Magikarp stands out not only for its unique evolution into the powerful Gyarados but also for its rarity and the distinct places you might encounter it. If you are seeking to add this splashy fish to your collection, this guide will provide you with all the insights you need.
Understanding Magikarp in Pokémon GO
What is Magikarp?
Magikarp is a Water-type Pokémon known for its rather weak abilities and somewhat comedic reputation. However, what Magikarp lacks in strength, it makes up for in the ability to evolve into Gyarados, which is considered one of the more formidable Pokémon in the game. To evolve a Magikarp into Gyarados, trainers must gather 400 Magikarp candies. Therefore, finding and capturing multiple Magikarp is key for trainers who are serious about their Gyarados evolution strategy.
Where To Find A Magikarp in Pokémon GO?
1. Water Bodies
The most common place to catch Magikarp is near bodies of water. This includes lakes, rivers, ponds, and oceans. Pokémon GO is designed to encourage players to explore real-world locations, and Magikarp is often found lurking near:
- Beaches
- Lakesides
- Riversides
- Fishing docks
Tip: Use a GPS app to identify the nearest water bodies to your location. Make a plan to visit these areas, particularly during hours of peak activity when more Pokémon spawn.
2. Weather Influence
The weather can significantly impact Pokémon spawn rates. Since Magikarp is a Water-type Pokémon, it tends to spawn more frequently when the weather is rainy. During rainy days, not only are you more likely to encounter Magikarp, but other Water-type Pokémon will also be more common.
- Tip: Check Pokémon GO's in-app weather feature to plan your hunting trips.
3. PokéStops and Gyms
Another efficient method to catch Magikarp is to explore areas around PokéStops and Gyms. These spots often have increased Pokémon spawns, including Magikarp.
- Strategy: Regularly spin PokéStops and check the nearby Pokémon list to increase your chances of spotting a Magikarp.
4. Community Days and Events
Niantic frequently hosts events and Community Days where specific Pokémon spawn more frequently. During these events, Magikarp can appear in large numbers, giving trainers a great opportunity to catch multiple ones at once.
Case Study: In previous events, players reported catching dozens of Magikarp within a single day, especially when bonuses such as increased spawn rates were active.
5. Incubators and Eggs
Magikarp can also be hatched from eggs, particularly 2 km eggs. Collecting and hatching these eggs is a fantastic way to encounter Magikarp, especially if you're unable to locate them in the wild.
- Egg Hatching Strategy:
- Ensure you are walking and have incubators active.
- Regularly visit PokéStops to collect more eggs.
6. Trading with Friends
If you’re struggling to catch Magikarp, consider trading with friends. If a friend has a surplus of Magikarp, you can exchange Pokémon, helping you reach that 400 candy mark even faster.
7. Special Research Tasks
Occasionally, special research tasks and field research missions involve catching specific Pokémon, including Magikarp.
- Tip: Keep an eye on your research tasks, as they often lead to encounters with Magikarp or even rewards in the form of Magikarp candies.
Best Practices for Catching Magikarp
- Use Berries: When attempting to catch a Magikarp, using Razz Berries can increase your chances of a successful capture.
- Utilize Poké Balls Wisely: Use Great Balls or Ultra Balls when you encounter higher-level Magikarp to ensure success.
- Aim for the Circle: Timing your throw for when the colored circle is smallest can give you a better chance at a successful catch.
Summary of Catching Locations
| Location | Spawn Rate | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Water Bodies | High | Ideal during rainy weather. |
| PokéStops & Gyms | Medium | Check frequently for best results. |
| Community Days | Very High | Participate for maximum capture opportunities. |
| Incubators | Low | Check your eggs regularly. |
| Trades with Friends | Variable | Can obtain specific Pokémon from friends. |
Conclusion
Finding a Magikarp in Pokémon GO can sometimes be a challenge, but understanding its spawn mechanics and utilizing the right strategies will significantly increase your chances. Explore bodies of water, take advantage of weather conditions, participate in community events, and remember to hatch your eggs! With some effort and a little luck, you’ll be well on your way to catching enough Magikarp to evolve into a Gyarados.
As you venture into your Pokémon journey, remember that patience is key. Happy hunting, trainers!
