FFXIV Fishcord Fishing Derby 2025 Guide – Dates, How to Join, and Fishing Tips

If you’re a fishing fan in Final Fantasy XIV, November is about to get a lot more exciting. The Fishcord Fishing Derby is back for its third annual event, uniting anglers from all worlds in a massive 10-day community challenge. Whether you’re a seasoned Big Fish hunter or just picking up your first rod, this is the perfect chance to test your skills, learn from others, and show off your catches.

Let’s dive into everything you need to know — from the schedule and how to sign up, to expert tips for reeling in those legendary Big Fish.
💡 Before diving in, make sure your fisher is equipped and ready. If you need extra Gil for new rods or bait, you can safely buy FFXIV Gil at SSEGold.com.

What Is the Fishcord Fishing Derby?

The Fishcord Fishing Derby started as a small community event during a server stress test a few years ago. What began as a lighthearted fishing challenge has grown into one of FFXIV’s most beloved annual traditions. Hosted by the Fishcord Discord community, the Derby encourages players from all servers and data centers to fish, share their catches, and celebrate the unique charm of FFXIV’s fishing system.

This year’s Derby runs from November 7, 2025 (5 PM EDT) until November 17, 2025 (8 AM EDT) — a full ten days of friendly fishing competition and community fun.

How to Join the Fishcord Derby

Joining the event is simple:

1. Join the Fishcord Discord — You’ll find it easily by searching “Fishcord FFXIV” online or through community links.

2. Head to the #fishing-derby-chat channel once inside.

3. Register your character and follow the pinned messages for official event rules.

4. Start fishing! Every eligible “Big Fish” you catch during the event can be logged for points.

The event is open to all players on any data center, and there’s no entry fee. You’ll just need a level 50 Fisher or higher to qualify, since Big Fish from A Realm Reborn and beyond are the main targets.

Event Rules and Format

Unlike many in-game competitions, the Fishcord Derby is entirely community-run. There are no official in-game prizes, but players compete for roles, badges, and recognition within the Fishcord server.

This year’s event keeps things simple:

• No bait or gear restrictions — use whatever setup works best for you.

• Catches are tracked manually through Discord logs.

• Each Big Fish counts toward your personal and team totals.

• Community volunteers verify submissions and update leaderboards daily.

The result is a relaxed yet competitive event where players help one another while still trying to climb the ranks.

Getting Ready: Preparation Tips

Even though this is a casual community event, preparation makes a huge difference. Here are a few tips to help you perform well:

1. Gear Up Properly

You don’t need max-level gear, but a solid fishing rod and some decent gathering/perception stats go a long way. If you’re short on Gil for upgrades, you can safely buy FFXIV Gil from SSEGold.com to save time — it’s a trusted marketplace for affordable in-game currency and items.

2. Check Weather and Time Windows

Many Big Fish only appear during specific weather patterns or in-game times. Tools like Teamcraft or Fish Tracker can help plan your sessions effectively.

3. Stock Up on Bait

Since there are no bait restrictions, keep a variety of bait types handy. This helps when switching between different fishing spots quickly.

4. Use Skills Wisely

Mastering Patience II, Powerful Hookset, and Precision Hookset will drastically increase your chances of landing high-quality catches. Remember to manage your GP efficiently to avoid missing rare bites.

Best Spots for Big Fish Hunting

If you’re unsure where to start, here are a few tried-and-true locations for catching Big Fish that count toward the event:

• Costa del Sol (La Noscea) – Great for early Big Fish from A Realm Reborn.

• The Dravanian Hinterlands – Excellent for mid-level fishing challenges.

• Ruby Sea – A favorite among veteran fishers for high-end catches.

• Il Mheg – A beautiful and rewarding area for those who have advanced into Shadowbringers.

Mix it up — exploring multiple zones not only boosts your chances of rare finds but also keeps the event fresh and fun.

Why Players Love the Fishcord Derby

What really makes this event special is its community spirit. You’ll see players sharing fishing logs, celebrating rare catches, and cheering each other on. Even if you’re not aiming for the top leaderboard spots, participating means joining one of FFXIV’s most positive and passionate player groups.

The organizers also share fun stats, screenshots, and memorable moments after the event, highlighting everything from first-time Big Fish catches to incredible streaks of luck.

Make the Most of the Event

If you want to upgrade your fishing gear, try new baits, or buy collectibles during the Derby, having a healthy Gil balance definitely helps. That’s where SSEGold.com comes in — offering safe, fast, and affordable FFXIV Gil so you can focus on fishing instead of grinding.

Many players use this event as motivation to finally max out their Fisher class, and with the right setup, you’ll find yourself enjoying the journey as much as the competition.

Final Thoughts

The FFXIV Fishcord Fishing Derby 2025 is more than just a fishing contest — it’s a celebration of the community, creativity, and camaraderie that make Final Fantasy XIV such a beloved MMO. Whether you’re aiming for the biggest catches or simply want to hang out with other fishers, this event is a fantastic way to spend your November in Eorzea.

Grab your rod, pack your bait, and join the Derby. You might just reel in more than a Big Fish — maybe a few new friends, too.