Caviar in Stardew Valley is one of the most profitable and sought-after artisan goods that players can produce on their farm. Unlike regular roe, which turns into aged roe when processed, caviar requires a specific process starting with a particular fish species. Understanding the step-by-step method to manufacture this luxury item allows players to unlock late-game achievements and maximize farm revenue.
Catching the Necessary Fish
To produce authentic caviar, players must first reel in a Sturgeon, which is the only fish species capable of producing the required roe. Sturgeons can be caught in the Mountain Lake during the summer and winter seasons between 6 AM and 7 PM. Alternatively, players can purchase this fish from the Traveling Cart or Krobus' shop when available.
Setting Up the Fish Pond
Once a Sturgeon is secured, players must visit Robin at the Carpenter Shop to construct a Fish Pond on their farm. Building the pond requires 200 Stone, 5 Seaweed, 5 Green Algae, and 5,000 Gold. After construction completes, dropping the Sturgeon into the pond allows the population to grow and begin producing Sturgeon Roe over time.
Processing Roe in the Preserves Jar
After harvesting Sturgeon Roe from the Fish Pond's bucket, it must be placed into a Preserves Jar for aging. Crafting a Preserves Jar requires reaching Farming Level 4 along with 50 Wood, 40 Stone, and 8 Coal. The refining process takes approximately four in-game days, after which the finished product can be collected.
Utilizing Caviar on Your Farm
Caviar serves multiple high-value purposes in Stardew Valley, making it well worth the production effort. It sells for 500 Gold at base value, which increases to 700 Gold with the Artisan profession. Additionally, caviar is required to complete the Missing Bundle in the abandoned JojaMart to unlock the Movie Theater.
