What are the best ways to farm angler gel for base building in ARK: Survival Evolved?

Farming angler gel in ARK: Survival Evolved is essential for advanced base building, particularly for crafting items like glow sticks, underwater light sources, and certain advanced structures. Angler gel is harvested from Anglerfish, which are found in the ocean biome, typically in deeper waters. To efficiently farm angler gel, you need to understand the mechanics, prepare the right tools, and follow a strategic approach.

First, you need to locate Anglerfish. These creatures are commonly found in the deeper parts of the ocean, especially around underwater caves and trenches. Maps like The Island, Ragnarok, and Valguero have abundant Anglerfish populations. Before heading out, ensure you have the necessary equipment. A strong underwater mount like a Basilosaurus, Megalodon, or Tusoteuthis is highly recommended. These creatures provide mobility, protection, and the ability to carry resources. Additionally, bring a good set of scuba gear or Lazarus Chowder to extend your underwater breathing time. A high-damage weapon, such as a crossbow or harpoon gun, is also useful for killing Anglerfish quickly.

Once you locate an Anglerfish, approach it carefully. Anglerfish are not overly aggressive but will attack if provoked. Use your weapon or mount to kill the Anglerfish. After killing it, use a metal pick or a chainsaw to harvest the corpse. A chainsaw yields the most angler gel, but if you donÔÇÖt have one, a metal pick is a good alternative. Each Anglerfish typically drops between 10 to 20 angler gel, depending on your harvesting efficiency and the creatureÔÇÖs level.

To optimize your farming, consider the following tips. First, bring a tamed Ichthyornis if you have one. This bird can increase the amount of resources harvested from corpses, including angler gel. Second, use a tamed Otter to carry the gel. Otters have a weight reduction for organic resources, making them ideal for transporting large amounts of gel. Third, avoid farming in areas with high predator density, such as near Mosasaurs or Plesiosaurs, as they can pose a significant threat. Instead, focus on safer zones where Anglerfish are abundant but predators are minimal.

Common mistakes to avoid include venturing into the ocean unprepared. Without proper gear or a strong mount, you risk drowning or being attacked by predators. Another mistake is overharvesting in one area, which can deplete the Anglerfish population temporarily. To avoid this, rotate between different underwater locations. Additionally, failing to bring enough storage or weight-reducing creatures can limit how much gel you can carry back to your base.

For advanced techniques, consider setting up an underwater base or taming a Basilosaurus. Basilosaurus are immune to the stun effects of jellyfish and eels, making them ideal for ocean exploration. An underwater base near Anglerfish spawns can serve as a resource hub, allowing you to store gel and resupply without returning to land. You can also use a tamed Megalodon with a platform saddle to create a mobile harvesting station, complete with storage and crafting stations.

Resource requirements for angler gel farming include a strong underwater mount, scuba gear or Lazarus Chowder, a high-damage weapon, and a harvesting tool like a chainsaw or metal pick. If youÔÇÖre playing solo, prioritize safety and efficiency by using weight-reducing creatures like Otters and Ichthyornis. In a tribe, coordinate with teammates to cover more ground and protect each other from predators. For example, one player can focus on harvesting while another guards against threats.

In specific scenarios, such as farming on The Island, the underwater cave near Herbivore Island is a prime location for Anglerfish. On Ragnarok, the deep ocean trenches in the southwest are excellent spots. On Valguero, the underwater areas near the Aberration zone are rich in Anglerfish. Always scout the area first to ensure itÔÇÖs safe and has a high density of Anglerfish.

By following these strategies, you can efficiently farm angler gel for your base-building needs. Proper preparation, the right tools, and strategic planning will ensure a steady supply of this valuable resource.