To complete your Pokedex in Pokemon Scarlet and Violet, you’ll have to get creative with approaching various Pokemon. While yes, a good chunk will wander on the ground for you to find, some also reside in the water. Since your character can’t swim, figuring out how to catch these water-dwelling Pokemon is surprisingly challenging. You also can’t fish like in previous games, adding to the initial difficulty. If you’re interested in learning more, continue reading to discover how to catch Pokemon in the water in Pokemon Scarlet and Violet.
How to Catch Water Pokemon in Pokemon Scarlet and Violet
The main way to target Pokemon in the water is to use your ZL and ZR joycon buttons. Your ZL button allows you to aim toward the Pokemon, while your ZR button throws the Pokeball. Doing this will throw your lead Pokemon toward the opposing Pokemon, causing a battle to ensue. If you want a specific one to initiate the fight, head to your Party menu and move your chosen Pokemon to the first party slot. Picking a Pokemon that doesn’t typically live in the water will cause a small platform to appear under them, so don’t stress too much about which one you pick.
Related: How to Ride Koraidon and Miraidon in Pokemon Scarlet and Violet
But what if the water Pokemon is too far away? If this tactic doesn’t work for you, you’ll have to progress further in the story and defeat the Titans. More specifically, your Koraidon or Miraidon will gain access to movement across water after defeating your third Titan. You can use them to swim and access Pokemon who you otherwise couldn’t reach. This is particularly helpful for any in the ocean or other large bodies of water.
Pokemon Scarlet and Violet are available on Nintendo Switch through the official website. If you’re interested in learning more, be sure to check out How to Customize your Rotom Phone and How to Get Ditto in Pokemon Scarlet and Violet.
