Understanding Tarantulas in ACNH
Tarantula hunting in Animal Crossing New Horizons (ACNH) is a lucrative activity that can quickly fill your pockets with Bells. These elusive creatures appear on your island, and with the right strategy, you can turn them into a source of significant income. This guide provides a comprehensive overview of everything you need to know to master tarantula hunting and get rich in ACNH. This guide breaks down the necessary steps to successfully hunt tarantulas, from preparation to selling your catches. Get ready to become a tarantula hunting expert and transform your island life!
What are Tarantulas in ACNH
Tarantulas are a type of bug that spawns on your island during specific times. They are nocturnal and can be found roaming around. They are a valuable catch, each one selling for a significant number of Bells. The spawn rate and behavior of tarantulas add an exciting element to the game, creating opportunities for both novices and experienced players. Understanding the behavior of the tarantula is key to successful hunting and maximizing profits. Keep an eye out for them, especially at night!
Why Hunt Tarantulas

The primary reason to hunt tarantulas in ACNH is to earn Bells. Each tarantula sells for 8,000 Bells, making them one of the most profitable bugs to catch. They offer a consistent and reliable way to accumulate wealth. Beyond financial gain, tarantula hunting offers a fun challenge and provides an engaging gameplay experience. It’s a great way to test your skills and refine your approach. Plus, selling tarantulas helps you achieve goals like expanding your home, buying new items, and customizing your island.
Best Times & Places to Hunt
Knowing when and where to hunt is crucial for success in ACNH. The more prepared you are, the more tarantulas you can catch! Maximizing your time and effort leads to more Bells in your pocket. To become a successful tarantula hunter, you need to be in the right place at the right time. This section provides detailed information on the best times and locations to hunt, so you’re always ready when tarantulas appear.
Optimal Island for Tarantula Hunting
The best island for tarantula hunting is one that has been prepared. This means removing all flowers, trees, and items to provide the maximum space for tarantulas to spawn. A flat, open area with no obstacles is ideal. You can also visit a Mystery Island, which can be modified to meet your hunting requirements, creating the perfect environment for tarantulas to appear. A cleared and prepared island reduces the chances of other bugs spawning, increasing the frequency of tarantula appearances.
Best Time of Day to Hunt

Tarantulas spawn during the evening and night hours. Generally, they appear between 7 PM and 4 AM on your island and mystery islands. Make sure to hunt during these hours, as tarantulas will not be active during the daytime. Setting the time on your Nintendo Switch to the correct time will help you begin tarantula hunting at the right time, as well as make the most of your hunting time.
Essential Tools and Preparation
Before you start your tarantula hunting adventure, you need to make sure you are well-prepared. This involves gathering the right tools and implementing strategies. You’ll need to know how to craft a net, how to create space on your island, and how to avoid getting bitten. The right preparation will increase your chances of success. Follow these tips and tricks so you are fully equipped for your tarantula hunting expeditions.
Crafting a Net
The net is your most essential tool. Make sure you have a sturdy net crafted, or purchase one from Nook’s Cranny. A flimsy net will break, so a durable net is preferable. Having multiple nets on hand is also wise. You should also bring a lot of iron nuggets for crafting, as you’ll need to create a lot of nets. Consider having several nets on hand to avoid running out during your hunt.
Clearing Your Island

Clearing your island is a must-do step. This means removing all trees, flowers, and items, leaving a flat, open space. This reduces the chances of other bugs spawning and allows tarantulas to spawn more frequently. You may also choose to visit a mystery island and modify it into a tarantula hunting paradise. This process helps maximize your chances of encountering tarantulas and allows you to be in the right location when you need it.
Hunting Strategies
Successful tarantula hunting requires a combination of patience and strategic moves. Knowing how to approach, catch, and manage the risk of bites is essential. The following section presents various hunting strategies, covering the critical aspects of a successful tarantula hunt, from approach techniques to handling the risks associated with tarantulas. Follow these tactics and transform into a master of tarantula hunting.
The Approach
When you spot a tarantula, approach slowly. Hold down the A button to ready your net. Walk slowly towards it, and be prepared to stop if the tarantula raises its legs, signaling it’s about to attack. If this happens, stop and wait for the tarantula to lower its legs. Continue to advance cautiously, ready to swing your net when you’re within range. Patience is key; a rushed approach will likely end in a bite.
The Catching Technique

Once you’re close enough, quickly swing your net to catch the tarantula. Timing is everything. If you miss, be prepared to run to avoid getting bitten. If you’re fast enough, you can swing your net again before the tarantula attacks. The goal is to be quick and precise. Practice will improve your timing and catching technique. Sometimes, tarantulas will charge, and other times, they will not. Reacting accordingly is key.
Dealing with Bites
Getting bitten by a tarantula is not the end of the world. If you are bitten, you will faint and be transported back to your home. It is best to start over with your hunt, or go back to the start of the island. If you get bitten, you will drop any items you are holding, so make sure you are prepared. Although a bite is not fatal, it can be inconvenient. Practice makes perfect, and eventually, you will get faster and be able to avoid the tarantula’s attack.
Maximizing Your Earnings
To maximize your profits, focus on catching as many tarantulas as possible during each hunting session. Proper preparation, effective hunting strategies, and good inventory management are essential for earning a substantial amount of Bells. With these tips, you can turn your tarantula hunts into a highly profitable venture. Consider these methods as you set out on your tarantula-hunting adventure.
Selling Prices

Tarantulas sell for 8,000 Bells each at Nook’s Cranny, making them one of the most valuable bugs. You can also sell them to Flick, who will buy them for 12,000 Bells. If Flick is visiting your island, it is the ideal time to sell your tarantulas. The more tarantulas you catch, the more Bells you will accumulate. Understanding and utilizing selling strategies maximizes the value you get for each catch.
Increasing Your Inventory Space
Having enough inventory space is critical. Increase your storage capacity by upgrading your home and expanding your pockets. This will allow you to carry more tarantulas. Frequent trips to sell your catches can also help. Furthermore, consider storing tarantulas in your home for later selling. Strategic inventory management helps you catch more and earn more during each hunting session.
Avoiding Common Mistakes
While tarantula hunting is lucrative, several common mistakes can hinder your success. Being aware of these pitfalls and taking steps to avoid them will greatly improve your hunting efficiency and profitability. By learning from these mistakes, you can significantly improve your strategy and increase your chances of success. This section gives you an insight into common missteps, helping you avoid costly errors and focus on optimizing your tarantula hunting efforts.
Panic and Running

Panicking and running around is a sure way to get bitten. Stay calm, approach slowly, and only swing your net when you’re sure you can catch the tarantula. If you get startled, stand still or slowly retreat. Taking a deep breath will also help you remain calm. Staying calm improves your reflexes and helps you to be more precise, increasing your catching rate.
Ignoring the Island Layout
Failing to consider the island layout, such as the location of cliffs, rivers, and other obstacles, can lead to difficulties. These elements can disrupt your approach. Take advantage of the island layout and use it to your advantage, or modify the island before you start. Make sure the island is as clear as possible. Pay attention to the layout to enhance your movement and catching efficiency.
Conclusion
Tarantula hunting in ACNH is a rewarding and profitable activity. By understanding tarantula behavior, preparing your island, and employing the right strategies, you can quickly accumulate a significant amount of Bells. With this guide, you are well-equipped to master the art of tarantula hunting. Practice and patience are essential. Happy hunting, and enjoy the riches of your ACNH island!
