How do I tame a creature that requires raw prime fish meat in ARK: Survival Evolved?

Taming a creature that requires raw prime fish meat in ARK: Survival Evolved involves a specific set of steps and considerations. Raw prime fish meat is a high-quality food source used to tame certain aquatic or semi-aquatic creatures, such as the Baryonyx, Ichthyosaurus, or Plesiosaur. This type of meat is more effective than regular raw meat, as it provides a higher taming efficiency and reduces the overall taming time. Below is a detailed guide on how to successfully tame a creature using raw prime fish meat.

First, you need to gather raw prime fish meat. This resource can only be obtained by killing certain fish, such as Coelacanths, Sabertooth Salmon, or Piranhas. The best way to harvest prime fish meat is by using a creature with high damage output, such as a Megalodon or a Spinosaurus, as they can quickly kill fish and yield more prime meat. Alternatively, you can use a metal hatchet or a chainsaw to harvest prime fish meat manually, though this method is less efficient. It is important to note that raw prime fish meat spoils quickly, so you should either use a preserving bin with sparkpowder or store it in a tamed creature's inventory to slow down the spoilage timer.

Once you have gathered enough raw prime fish meat, the next step is to locate the creature you wish to tame. For aquatic creatures like the Ichthyosaurus or Plesiosaur, you will need to venture into the ocean or deep water areas. For semi-aquatic creatures like the Baryonyx, you can find them near rivers or swamps. Before approaching the creature, ensure you have the necessary tools for taming. For passive tames, such as the Ichthyosaurus, you only need the raw prime fish meat in your last inventory slot. For knockout tames, such as the Baryonyx, you will need weapons like a crossbow with tranq arrows or a longneck rifle with tranquilizer darts, as well as narcotics or biotoxin to keep the creature unconscious.

For passive taming, approach the creature slowly and avoid sudden movements. When you are close enough, feed it the raw prime fish meat by pressing the appropriate button (E on PC, Y on Xbox, or Triangle on PlayStation). Be patient, as passive taming can take time, and the creature may swim away if startled. For knockout taming, shoot the creature with tranq arrows or darts until it falls unconscious. Once it is down, place the raw prime fish meat in its inventory and monitor its torpor level. Use narcotics or biotoxin to keep the creature sedated, as its torpor will decrease over time.

One common mistake to avoid is not having enough raw prime fish meat or narcotics. Always gather more than you think you will need, as the taming process can take longer than expected. Another mistake is not protecting the unconscious creature from predators. Build a taming pen or use spike walls to keep other creatures at bay. Additionally, avoid using low-quality weapons for knockout taming, as they may kill the creature instead of knocking it out.

Advanced techniques include using taming calculators to determine the exact amount of raw prime fish meat and narcotics required for the creature you are taming. This can save time and resources. You can also use a taming pen with a trapdoor to make the process safer and more efficient. For example, you can lure a Baryonyx into a pen and close the door behind it, making it easier to knock it out and tame it without interference.

Resource preparation is crucial for a successful tame. In addition to raw prime fish meat and narcotics, you should bring healing items like medical brews or cooked meat in case you take damage during the process. If you are taming in a dangerous area, consider bringing a tamed creature for protection, such as a Carnotaurus or a Raptor.

For tribe considerations, coordinate with your tribe members to gather resources and protect the taming area. One player can focus on gathering raw prime fish meat, while another prepares narcotics and weapons. Solo players should prioritize safety and efficiency, as they will need to handle all aspects of the taming process alone.

In summary, taming a creature that requires raw prime fish meat involves gathering the meat, locating the creature, and using the appropriate taming method. Whether you are passively feeding an Ichthyosaurus or knocking out a Baryonyx, preparation and patience are key. Avoid common mistakes, use advanced techniques, and ensure you have the necessary resources to complete the tame. With these strategies, you can successfully tame aquatic and semi-aquatic creatures to enhance your survival and exploration in ARK: Survival Evolved.