The gameplay mechanics of Civilization 7 are deeply interconnected, and even seemingly insignificant structures can have a substantial impact on the development of a civilization. One such structure is the Fishing Quay—a simple building on the water that plays a key role in food supply and economic growth.

Why Fishing Quays are Important in Civilization 7

At first glance, the Fishing Quay seems like a regular coastal improvement that merely increases food production. However, its true strategic significance is revealed later, especially in the Exploration Age.

At this stage of the game, civilizations that have timely invested in coastal infrastructure will have a significant advantage, as they will be able to obtain Treasure Resources from Distant Lands.

During the Exploration Age, civilizations can establish settlements beyond their homeland in new, resource-rich regions. However, appropriate infrastructure is needed to transport these resources back to the metropolis.

One of the key requirements for sending Treasure Fleets—ships that deliver these riches home—is the presence of a Fishing Quay in the settlement. Without it, a civilization cannot effectively utilize resources from distant lands, leading to a loss of potential income in gold and points on the Economic Legacy Path.

Besides its role in maritime logistics, Fishing Quays provide constant bonuses. They belong to Ageless buildings, meaning that once constructed, they always provide +1 food to the city. Additionally, they enhance the efficiency of Fishing Boats, adding another +1 food from each such improvement. In the long term, this significantly increases the growth potential of coastal cities, ensuring their stable population.

How to Unlock and Build a Fishing Quay

Building a Fishing Quay is a relatively simple process but requires strategic planning. Since these buildings are available in the early stages of the game but become critically important later, it is worth constructing them in advance, even before the Exploration Age begins.

The first step is to research the Sailing technology. This is one of the first technologies in the game, becoming available immediately after researching Agriculture—the basic technology in Civilization 7. This means players can start building Fishing Quays quite early, laying the foundation for the future development of their coastal cities.

After researching Sailing, a Fishing Quay can be built in any coastal settlement. To build it, follow these steps:

1. Open the production menu in the settlement.
2. Go to the buildings section and select the Fishing Quay.
3. Place it on a suitable water tile (coast, lake, or navigable river) adjacent to the settlement.
4. Allocate the necessary resources to complete the construction.

Once construction is completed, the settlement will immediately start receiving a food bonus. As the game progresses, additional advantages, such as the ability to send Treasure Fleets, will become available.

Strategic Aspects of Placing Fishing Quays

While any coastal settlement can build a Fishing Quay, proper planning of its location can significantly enhance its effectiveness. Thoughtful placement will allow you to get the most out of this structure and avoid potential issues.

Choose settlements with a large number of water tiles

Since Fishing Quays are built on water tiles, settlements with access to multiple coastal or river tiles will have more opportunities for their construction.

Ensure access to the open sea for Treasure Fleets

One mistake some players make is building Fishing Quays on lake tiles not connected to the ocean. This can result in Treasure Fleets appearing in inland lakes and being unable to reach the metropolis. To avoid this, build Fishing Quays on the coast with access to the open sea.

How to Maximize the Benefits of Fishing Quays

Simply building a Fishing Quay is not enough to unlock its full potential. To gain the maximum benefit, several strategic steps need to be implemented.

Combine with Fishing Boats

Each Fishing Quay provides +1 food for each Fishing Boat improvement. Players should enhance the relevant tiles with fish resources (fish, whales, crabs) to significantly boost the food base.

Prepare for the Age

Treasure Fleets require both a Fishing Quay and the Shipbuilding technology, so players should preemptively place Fishing Quays in strategic locations.

Utilize economic and maritime policies

Some government policies and technologies provide additional bonuses to coastal cities. Players should pay attention to laws and buildings that increase gold income, trade, or productivity in coastal areas.

Common Issues and Solutions

Lack of suitable water tiles

If a settlement lacks a coast, lake, or navigable river, a Fishing Quay cannot be built. Before founding a city, ensure that the area is suitable for coastal development.

Misplacement of Treasure Fleets

If a Fishing Quay is built on a lake without ocean access, Treasure Fleets may appear there and be unable to set sail. Always check that the quay is located on a coast with access to the sea.