What is the best way to use portals for farming Serpent Scales?

Farming Serpent Scales in Valheim requires a combination of preparation, strategy, and efficient use of portals. Serpents are rare sea creatures found in the Ocean biome, and their scales are essential for crafting high-tier items like the Serpent Scale Shield. To maximize your farming efficiency, you’ll need to set up a portal network and prepare for the challenges of ocean exploration.\n\nFirst, ensure you have the necessary materials to craft portals. Each portal requires 20 Fine Wood, 10 Greydwarf Eyes, and 2 Surtling Cores. Fine Wood can be obtained from Birch or Oak trees in the Meadows or Black Forest, Greydwarf Eyes drop from Greydwarfs, and Surtling Cores are found in Burial Chambers or dropped by Surtlings in the Ashlands. Craft at least two portals: one for your base and one to place on a boat or near the ocean biome.\n\nBefore heading out, prepare your gear. A Karve or Longship is essential for ocean travel, as Serpents only spawn in deep water. Equip yourself with a strong bow, such as the Huntsman Bow or Draugr Fang, and plenty of arrows, as Serpents are best fought from a distance. Bring healing items like Cooked Meat or Serpent Stew, and wear armor with high frost resistance, as the ocean biome can be cold and dangerous.\n\nTo begin farming, sail into the Ocean biome during a storm, as Serpents are more likely to spawn in bad weather. Keep an eye on the horizon for their distinctive serpentine shape. When you spot one, engage it with arrows while maintaining a safe distance. Once defeated, the Serpent will drop Serpent Meat and Serpent Scales. Collect these quickly, as they will sink if not picked up in time.\n\nTo optimize your farming, set up a portal on a nearby island or on your boat. If you place a portal on your boat, ensure it’s anchored securely to avoid losing it during combat. After defeating a Serpent, use the portal to return to your base and store the scales and meat. This prevents losing your loot if your boat is destroyed or if you encounter other dangers.\n\nA common challenge is the unpredictability of Serpent spawns. To mitigate this, explore multiple Ocean biomes and mark potential spawn locations on your map. Over time, you’ll identify reliable areas for Serpent encounters. Additionally, consider building small outposts on islands near these locations to serve as staging points for your farming expeditions.\n\nFinally, remember that Serpents are dangerous and can destroy your boat if you’re not careful. Always prioritize safety by keeping your boat moving and avoiding prolonged close combat. With a well-planned portal network and proper preparation, farming Serpent Scales becomes a manageable and rewarding task.\n\nPractical tips: Always carry extra portal materials in case you need to set up a new one. Use the wind to your advantage when sailing, and consider bringing a friend to help with combat and navigation. Lastly, keep an eye on your stamina during fights, as running out can leave you vulnerable to the Serpent’s attacks.