Where to Find a Red Gyarados in Pokémon FireRed

In Pokémon FireRed, the location of a red Gyarados is found in the Johto region, specifically at the Lake of Rage. However, since FireRed is set in the Kanto region, obtaining access to the Sevii Islands is necessary to reach Johto. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the steps to catch this iconic Pokémon.

Accessing the Sevii Islands

Once you have completed the main storyline and obtained the National Pokédex, you can access the Sevii Islands by speaking to the man at the ferry in Vermilion City.

Heading to the Lake of Rage

Once you are in Johto, make your way northwards towards Mahogany Town, and you will find the Lake of Rage. This is where you will encounter the red Gyarados, which is causing a disturbance. The encounter with the Gyarados is guaranteed at level 30, making the task simpler.

Catching the Red Gyarados

To catch the red Gyarados, you must first ensure it is a shiny Gyarados. A shiny Gyarados has a different colour scheme, specifically being red instead of its usual blue. The key indicator that a Pokémon is shiny is a sparkling star symbol at the beginning of the battle. Alternatively, you can catch a shiny Magikarp, which has a 1 in 8192 chance of being shiny. After catching the shiny Magikarp, level it up to level 20 and evolve it into a shiny Gyarados. Once caught, Gyarados will be at level 30 and ready for your Pokémon team.

Alternative Ways to Obtain a Shiny Gyarados

If catching a red Gyarados directly is too challenging, you could try catching a shiny Gyrados found in the games Silver and Gold, then trade it to Fire Red. If your efforts in catching a shiny Magikarp go unrewarding, rest assured there are other methods to achieve your goal.

Good luck on your quest for the elusive red Gyarados! Happy Pokémon journeying!