TL;DR
- Super Rod requires National Dex completion and is found in post-game Fight Area
- Old Rod obtained early from fisherman at Jubilife City’s western exit
- Good Rod available mid-game from fisherman on Route 209 dock
- Each rod unlocks different Pokemon encounters with increasing rarity
- Strategic fishing locations maximize rare Pokemon discovery chances
Fishing mechanics form a cornerstone of creature collection in every core Pokemon adventure. Pokemon Brilliant Diamond and Shining Pearl maintain this tradition with a three-tier rod system that progressively unlocks more diverse aquatic encounters. Understanding how to obtain each fishing tool and maximize their effectiveness separates casual players from completionists.
The post-game content in Pokemon BDSP contains numerous valuable items and areas, with the Super Rod representing one of the most significant post-championship acquisitions. This powerful fishing tool enables trainers to encounter rare water-type Pokemon unavailable through other methods.
Game design decisions regarding item availability timing spark discussion among competitive players about team-building flexibility. Fortunately, dedicated trainers who conquer the Pokemon League can secure this item through straightforward steps once they understand the prerequisites.
How to get the Super Rod in Pokemon Brilliant Diamond and Shining Pearl
The premium Super Rod becomes accessible exclusively after you’ve conquered the main storyline. You’ll find it held by an experienced angler stationed within the Fight Area’s boundaries.
Reaching the Fight Area demands completion of two major milestones: defeating Champion Cynthia to claim the Pokemon League title and obtaining the expanded National Pokedex. Without fulfilling both conditions, two non-player characters will block access to the fisherman, preventing Super Rod acquisition prematurely.
Once you possess the National Dex and can freely explore the Fight Area, obtaining the Super Rod involves no complex puzzles or hidden requirements. Approach the fisherman, respond correctly to his simple question about fishing enthusiasm, and he’ll generously provide the Super Rod for your inventory.
Pro Tip: Before attempting to reach the Fight Area, ensure you’ve registered at least 150 Sinnoh Pokemon in your Pokedex and spoken with Professor Rowan in Sandgem Town to trigger the National Dex upgrade. This typically requires 25-30 hours of gameplay for most trainers.
How to get the Old Rod and Good Rod in Pokemon BDSP
While the Super Rod remains exclusive to post-game content, both basic and intermediate fishing tools become available during your initial journey through Sinnoh. These rods enable early water-type Pokemon collection and fishing skill development.
The fundamental Old Rod can be secured shortly after beginning your adventure. Journey to Jubilife City’s western exit where you’ll notice a fisherman positioned near a police officer. Engage in conversation with him to receive the Old Rod, typically within 2-3 hours of starting your game.
Mid-game progression brings you to Route 209, where another angler awaits on a wooden dock with his line already cast. Though he may appear as just another potential battle opponent, dialogue initiation reveals his generosity with the Good Rod.
Common Mistake: Many trainers overlook the Route 209 fisherman while focused on trainer battles, delaying their access to improved fishing capabilities by 10-15 hours of gameplay.
Each fishing rod tier unlocks progressively rarer Pokemon encounters, with the Super Rod providing access to species completely unavailable through other methods. Understanding each rod’s capabilities maximizes your collection efficiency.
Rod Effectiveness Breakdown:
- Old Rod: Common water-types like Magikarp and Goldeen – ideal for beginners
- Good Rod: Uncommon species including Feebas and Carvanha – perfect for team diversification
- Super Rod: Rare Pokemon such as Gyarados, Milotic, and Relicanth – essential for completionists
Strategic fishing involves identifying optimal water locations and understanding encounter mechanics. Different bodies of water host unique Pokemon populations, and certain rare species like Feebas have extremely low appearance rates requiring persistence.
Optimization Tip: Save before fishing in areas with rare Pokemon and reset if you don’t get your desired encounter. This technique saves significant time when hunting specific water-types for your team composition or Pokedex completion. For comprehensive team-building strategies, consult our Class Guide to understand type advantages.
Action Checklist
- Obtain Old Rod from fisherman at Jubilife City western exit (2-3 hours into game)
- Acquire Good Rod from angler on Route 209 dock (10-15 hours into game)
- Defeat Elite Four and Champion Cynthia to unlock post-game
- Complete National Dex requirement by registering 150 Sinnoh Pokemon
- Travel to Fight Area and receive Super Rod from fisherman after answering question
- Use strategic fishing techniques at various water locations to maximize rare Pokemon encounters
No reproduction without permission：Games Guides Website » Here’s the location of the Super Rod in Pokemon BDSP Complete fishing rod acquisition guide for Pokemon BDSP with post-game strategies and location maps