How do you use a Longship to farm Serpent Scales?

Farming Serpent Scales in Valheim using a Longship is a challenging but rewarding activity that requires preparation, strategy, and understanding of game mechanics. Serpents are dangerous sea creatures found in the Ocean biome, and their scales are essential for crafting high-tier items like the Serpent Scale Shield. To farm these scales effectively, you’ll need a Longship, proper gear, and a solid plan.\n\nFirst, you must craft a Longship, which requires 100 Iron Nails, 40 Fine Wood, 10 Deer Hide, and 40 Ancient Bark. The Longship is the fastest and most durable ship in Valheim, making it ideal for navigating the Ocean biome and engaging Serpents. Before setting sail, ensure you have a Karve or another ship to transport Iron from the Swamp biome to your base, as Iron Nails are a key ingredient for the Longship.\n\nOnce your Longship is ready, prepare for the journey by equipping yourself with strong armor, such as Wolf Armor or Iron Armor, and a powerful weapon like the Draugr Fang bow or an Iron Mace. Bring plenty of arrows, as ranged combat is the safest way to deal with Serpents. Additionally, pack healing items like Cooked Meat, Serpent Stew, or Health Mead, as Serpents deal significant damage and can quickly overwhelm unprepared players.\n\nTo find Serpents, sail into the Ocean biome during a storm or at night, as these conditions increase their spawn rate. Keep an eye on the horizon for their distinctive serpentine shape and glowing eyes. When you spot a Serpent, approach it carefully and begin attacking with your bow. Aim for its head to maximize damage. Be cautious, as Serpents can destroy your Longship if they get too close. Use the Longship’s speed to maintain distance while firing arrows.\n\nAfter defeating a Serpent, it will drop Serpent Meat and Serpent Scales. The scales float on the water’s surface, so you’ll need to maneuver your Longship close enough to collect them. Be quick, as the scales will sink after a short time. If you’re playing solo, this can be tricky, so consider bringing a friend to help with navigation and collection.\n\nOne common challenge is losing Serpent Scales due to sinking or being unable to collect them in time. To avoid this, always have a clear plan for looting after the battle. Position your Longship so that the scales are within reach, and use the interact key to grab them as soon as possible. If you’re struggling, consider using a Harpoon to pull the scales closer to your ship.\n\nAnother tip is to mark Serpent spawn locations on your map. Serpents often appear in the same areas, so revisiting these spots during storms or at night can increase your chances of finding them. Additionally, consider building a small outpost near the Ocean biome to store supplies and repair your Longship between hunts.\n\nIn summary, farming Serpent Scales with a Longship requires preparation, combat skill, and efficient looting. Craft a Longship, gear up with strong weapons and armor, and sail into the Ocean biome during storms or at night. Use ranged attacks to defeat Serpents, collect their scales quickly, and mark spawn locations for future hunts. With practice, you’ll master this challenging but rewarding activity and gather enough scales for your crafting needs.