What is the best way to gather angler gel in ARK: Survival Evolved?

Gathering angler gel in ARK: Survival Evolved is a task that requires preparation, strategy, and understanding of the game mechanics. Angler gel is a valuable resource used in crafting items like glow sticks, fishing bait, and certain advanced recipes. It is primarily obtained from Anglerfish, which are found in the ocean biome, particularly in deeper waters. Below is a detailed guide on how to efficiently gather angler gel, covering mechanics, strategies, and tips.

To start, you need to locate Anglerfish. These creatures are commonly found in the ocean, especially in areas with underwater caves or deep trenches. They are bioluminescent, making them easier to spot in dark waters. Anglerfish are aggressive and will attack if you get too close, so caution is necessary. The best way to gather angler gel is by killing Anglerfish, as they drop the resource upon death. However, simply killing them is not enough; you need to ensure you have the right tools and approach to maximize your efficiency.

First, prepare the necessary equipment. A strong underwater mount is essential for this task. Tames like the Basilosaurus, Megalodon, or Tusoteuthis are excellent choices due to their high health, damage output, and mobility in water. The Basilosaurus is particularly useful because it is immune to the stun effects of jellyfish and eels, which are common threats in the ocean. Additionally, equip yourself with scuba gear or Lazarus Chowder to extend your underwater breathing time. A crossbow or harpoon gun with tranq arrows can also be useful if you plan to tame Anglerfish instead of killing them, though taming is not necessary for gathering gel.

Once you are prepared, head to the ocean biome. Look for areas with deep water and underwater caves, as these are hotspots for Anglerfish. Use your mount to navigate the waters and locate the Anglerfish. When you find one, engage it carefully. If you are using a Basilosaurus or Megalodon, you can simply attack the Anglerfish directly. Their high damage output will quickly dispatch the creature. After killing the Anglerfish, collect the angler gel from its inventory. Be mindful of other threats in the area, such as jellyfish, eels, or other aggressive sea creatures, as they can quickly overwhelm you if you are not careful.

For solo players, the process is straightforward but requires extra caution. Without the support of a tribe, you must rely on your mount and equipment to survive. Make sure your mount is well-leveled in health and damage to handle multiple Anglerfish or other threats. If you are in a tribe, consider teaming up with other players to cover more ground and protect each other from dangers. A tribe can also assign roles, such as one player focusing on combat while another gathers the gel, increasing efficiency.

One common mistake is underestimating the dangers of the ocean biome. Many players venture into the water unprepared, leading to quick deaths from jellyfish, eels, or other predators. Always ensure you have a strong mount and proper gear before attempting to gather angler gel. Another mistake is not bringing enough resources, such as extra scuba tanks or food for your mount. Running out of oxygen or having your mount die mid-mission can be disastrous.

Advanced techniques include using a tamed Anglerfish to gather angler gel more efficiently. Tamed Anglerfish have a special ability that allows them to produce angler gel passively over time. To tame an Anglerfish, you need to knock it out using tranq arrows or a harpoon gun with tranquilizer darts. Once unconscious, feed it Giant Bee Honey or Rare Flowers to tame it. While this method requires more effort upfront, it can provide a steady supply of angler gel without the need for constant hunting.

Resource requirements for this task include a strong underwater mount, scuba gear or Lazarus Chowder, and weapons for combat. If you plan to tame an Anglerfish, you will also need tranq arrows or darts and the appropriate taming food. Preparation is key, so make sure you have everything you need before heading into the ocean.

In summary, gathering angler gel in ARK: Survival Evolved involves locating Anglerfish in the ocean biome, using a strong underwater mount to kill or tame them, and collecting the gel they drop. Preparation, caution, and the right equipment are essential for success. Whether you are playing solo or in a tribe, following these strategies will help you efficiently gather angler gel and avoid common pitfalls. Advanced techniques like taming Anglerfish can further optimize your resource gathering, making the process more sustainable in the long run.