How do I tame a high-level Zombie Anglerfish in ARK: Survival Evolved?

Taming a high-level Zombie Anglerfish in ARK: Survival Evolved is a challenging but rewarding task. The Zombie Anglerfish is a unique creature found in the Aberration map, and it requires a specific approach to tame. Below is a detailed guide covering the mechanics, strategies, and tips for successfully taming this creature.

The Zombie Anglerfish is a passive tame, meaning you do not need to knock it out. Instead, you must feed it the correct food while avoiding its aggressive behavior. The preferred food for taming a Zombie Anglerfish is Spoiled Meat. You will need a significant amount of Spoiled Meat, especially for a high-level Anglerfish, so prepare accordingly. For example, a level 150 Zombie Anglerfish may require around 50-60 Spoiled Meat, depending on taming effectiveness.

To begin, gather the necessary resources. Spoiled Meat can be obtained by letting raw meat spoil in your inventory or by using a preserving bin. You will also need a strong underwater mount, such as a Basilosaurus or a Tuso, to help you navigate the dangerous waters where the Zombie Anglerfish resides. Additionally, bring scuba gear or Lazarus Chowder to extend your underwater breathing time, as the taming process can take a while.

Once you are prepared, head to the Aberration map's underwater areas, such as the Element Falls or the Fertile Rivers. Zombie Anglerfish are often found in these regions. When you locate one, approach it cautiously. The Zombie Anglerfish is not naturally aggressive, but if you get too close or accidentally hit it, it will attack. To avoid this, maintain a safe distance and use your underwater mount to stay mobile.

To start the taming process, place the Spoiled Meat in the last slot of your hotbar. Swim close enough to the Zombie Anglerfish to interact with it, but not so close that it becomes aggressive. When you are in range, feed it the Spoiled Meat by pressing the corresponding hotkey. After feeding, the Zombie Anglerfish will swim away briefly. You must follow it and repeat the process until it is fully tamed.

One important tip is to use Ghillie Armor or Cactus Broth to reduce your visibility. This can help you stay undetected and avoid aggroing the Zombie Anglerfish or other nearby predators. Additionally, having a tribe member assist you can make the process easier. One person can focus on feeding the Anglerfish while the other keeps watch for threats.

Common mistakes to avoid include getting too close to the Zombie Anglerfish, which can trigger its aggression, or running out of Spoiled Meat mid-tame. Always bring extra food to account for any mistakes or interruptions. Another mistake is not being prepared for the hostile environment. The waters in Aberration are filled with dangerous creatures like Electrophorus and Cnidaria, so having a strong mount and proper gear is essential.

For advanced techniques, consider using a taming pen. While this is more challenging underwater, you can create a makeshift pen using large stone structures or metal pillars to funnel the Zombie Anglerfish into a confined space. This can make it easier to feed and follow the creature without losing it in the open water. Additionally, using a taming calculator can help you determine the exact amount of Spoiled Meat needed for the specific level of Zombie Anglerfish you are taming.

Resource management is crucial for this taming process. Ensure you have enough Spoiled Meat, narcotics (if needed for other tames), and healing items for your mount. If you are playing solo, prioritize safety and efficiency by planning your route and having an escape plan in case of danger. For tribes, coordinate roles to maximize efficiency, such as having one person gather resources while another scouts for the Zombie Anglerfish.

In summary, taming a high-level Zombie Anglerfish requires preparation, patience, and careful execution. Gather plenty of Spoiled Meat, equip yourself with the right gear, and use a strong underwater mount to navigate the dangerous waters. Approach the Anglerfish cautiously, feed it Spoiled Meat, and follow it until it is fully tamed. Avoid common mistakes like getting too close or running out of resources, and consider advanced techniques like using a taming pen or calculator. With these strategies, you can successfully tame a Zombie Anglerfish and add a powerful ally to your ARK survival team.