Catching Underwater Pokémon in Scarlet & Violet

Exploring the vast open world of Pokémon Scarlet and Violet introduces players to a dynamic environment filled with diverse Pokémon habitats. Among the most challenging encounters are those involving aquatic and aerial Pokémon, which require specific mechanics to engage successfully. This comprehensive guide delves into the intricacies of capturing Pokémon submerged in rivers, lakes, and oceans, as well as those soaring high above. Whether you’re a newcomer to the Paldea region or a seasoned trainer, mastering these techniques will expand your Pokédex significantly.

Understanding Aquatic Encounters in Paldea

The Paldea region boasts expansive bodies of water teeming with unique Pokémon species. Early in your journey, you’ll spot shadowy figures gliding beneath the surface or darting through currents. These encounters differ from standard grass or cave battles, demanding precision and patience. Unlike previous generations where diving suits or HM moves were necessary, Scarlet and Violet streamline the process with intuitive targeting systems and mount abilities.

Aquatic Pokémon often blend seamlessly with their surroundings, making detection a skill in itself. Look for subtle movements, ripples, or silhouettes against the ocean floor. Common early sightings include Magikarp in shallow streams and Finneon near coastal areas. Engaging them without proper setup can lead to missed opportunities, as they may flee or dive deeper upon approach.

Basic Controls for Targeting Distant Pokémon

Before diving into water-specific strategies, familiarize yourself with the core targeting mechanic applicable to both underwater and flying Pokémon. This system uses your controller’s triggers for seamless interaction from afar.

• Spot the Target: Use the right analog stick to angle your camera towards the Pokémon. For underwater ones, point downward while standing on the shore or riding your mount.
• Lock On: Hold the ZL button (left trigger on Joy-Con or Pro Controller) to enter targeting mode. A nameplate or “???” indicator confirms the lock.
• Initiate Battle: While holding ZL, press ZR (right trigger) to hurl your lead Pokémon’s Poké Ball. This triggers an encounter without needing proximity.

This method works universally for out-of-reach Pokémon, revolutionizing exploration. Practice on visible targets like flying Starly to build muscle memory before tackling submerged ones.

Unlocking Swimming Capabilities

To access deeper waters and pursue elusive swimmers, you must upgrade your legendary mount—Koraidon in Scarlet or Miraidon in Violet. This upgrade is tied to the Path of Legends storyline, specifically the Open Sky Titan quest.

Head northwest from Cortondo to the cliffs overlooking the western sea. A massive Bombirdier, one of Paldea’s Titans, blocks your path by hurling boulders. Dodge its attacks by weaving side-to-side on your mount, then engage in battle. Defeating it twice (with a healing break in between) rewards you with Herba Mystica, awakening your mount’s aquatic mode.

Once unlocked, approach any water body, and your mount will transition to swimming. This ability allows traversal across oceans, rivers, and lakes, opening new areas rich with rare spawns like Dratini or Skrelp.

Strategies for Capturing Shallow Water Pokémon

Prior to swimming, you can still catch Pokémon near shorelines using the targeting system. Position yourself on land or shallow edges for the best angle. Approach stealthily to avoid startling nearby wild Pokémon, which might interrupt your lock-on.

Recommended team setup for your lead slot:

• A Pokémon with False Swipe to avoid accidental KOs.
• Moves like Hypnosis or Thunder Wave for status effects.

Optimal Poké Balls include Dive Balls (higher catch rate underwater), Net Balls for Water-types, and Lure Balls for persistent divers. Weaken the target minimally, apply status, then throw.

Advanced Tactics for Deep-Sea Hunters

With swimming unlocked, pursue Pokémon in open waters. Your mount glides effortlessly, allowing jumps (B button) for momentum. Deep divers like Clauncher require persistent targeting—hold ZL until they surface slightly.

Pro tips:

• Height Advantage: Dive from high ledges into water for a brief submersion, potentially bumping hidden Pokémon.
• Mass Outbreaks: During events, Water-type outbreaks boost shiny odds and Kindly Mark appearances, ideal for farming Finizen or Lotad.
• Weather Impact: Rain increases spawn rates; check forecasts via your Rotom Phone.

Locations like Casseroya Lake and West Province seas host high-level variants, so scale your team accordingly.

Capturing Flying Pokémon: Complementary Mechanics

The same targeting applies to aerial Pokémon circling overhead. Lock on from ground or mount, then launch. This is crucial for species like Bombirdier fledglings or Talonflame in windy areas. Combine with swimming for hybrid hunts over coastal skies.

Recommended Water-Type Pokémon and Locations

Paldea’s waters hide gems:

• West Province (Area Two): Magikarp, Finneon—shallow access.
• Casseroya Lake: Clauncher, Dratini—swimming required.
• Kitakami (DLC): Lotad during outbreaks.
• Blueberry Academy Terrarium: Horsea in mass events.

Aim for 6IV spreads using Hyper Training post-capture.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I catch underwater Pokémon without swimming?

Yes, shore-based targeting works for near-surface ones.

What if the Pokémon keeps diving?

Persist with ZL lock; they eventually expose themselves.

Best balls for aquatic catches?

Dive, Net, or Lure Balls for optimal rates.

Does Miraidon/Koraidon take damage in water?

No, aquatic mode protects them fully.

Shiny hunting tips for water Pokémon?

Leverage mass outbreaks and sandwich boosts.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If locks fail, ensure no obstacles block line-of-sight. Update your game for bug fixes. For flying misses, elevate position on hills.