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Find Your Next Pokémon: Catching Guides

Plan Your Hunt, from First Encounter to Next Evolution

Know Where to Look

Check wild spawns, events, research encounters, and other ways to find your target.

Make Each Throw Count

Choose useful items and learn throwing techniques that improve your catch chances.

Spot the Shiny Difference

Learn what the Shiny form looks like and which events may offer more encounters.

Choose What to Power Up

Use IVs, CP, evolution options, and battle roles to decide where to spend your resources.

Pokémon GO Catching FAQs

  • 1. Why can my friend see a Pokémon that I can't?

    Incense, Daily Adventure Incense, and some event encounters are specific to each Trainer. Check your event access, connection, and GPS signal, then restart the game if nearby spawns still look wrong.

  • 2. Why won't the catch screen open when I tap a Pokémon?

    The Pokémon may have despawned, or a connection or GPS delay may be interrupting the encounter. Stay in place, restart the game, and check the map again.

  • 3. Can I still catch an event Pokémon after the event ends?

    It depends on the Pokémon and the event. Some remain available through other encounters, while certain costumes may not return until a future event. Event-exclusive moves have their own availability rules.

  • 4. Can I keep using these guides after an event ends?

    The core catching tips remain useful, but spawns, event bonuses, and move availability can change. Check the in-game news and current event details before planning your next hunt.

Looking for the Best Auto Catcher for Pokémon GO?

Choose a setup that fits how you play. LocaChange combines location search, simulated routes, a virtual joystick, and supported auto-catch features. Check the guide for your platform, then try it for yourself.