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Poliwag (Japanese: ニョロモ, HepburnNyoromo) (PAUL-lee-wag[1]) is a Water-type Pokémon introduced in Generation I.

Biology[]

Physiology[]

It is so soft its organs are actually visible. It also has trouble walking on its feet due to its lack of arms which causes it to be unbalanced. The swirl on its belly is its internal organs showing through. If the swirl is tinged, that means it's affected by some disease.

Behavior[]

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Natural abilities[]

Poliwag will have one of two abilities; either Damp where the foe is unable to use Self-Destruct or Explosion, or Water Absorb where Water attacks heal 1/4 of Poliwag's health. With its light blue tail, it can swim very fast. It learns attacks such Bubble and Bubble Beam, and that was presumably why it has a small mouth. The mouth actually acts like a Suction cup to cling onto rocks with fats flowing water, much like the Lileep line's roots.

Evolution[]

Poliwag evolves into Poliwhirl at level 25, which can then either evolve into Poliwrath by Water Stone, or Politoed by trade while holding a King's Rock.

Game info[]

Game locations[]

Locations
Version(s) Area(s) Rarity
Red and Blue Viridian City and Route 22 (Fish) Common
Yellow Routes 16, 17, 22, and 23, and Viridian City, Fuchsia City (Fish) Common
Gold and Silver Routes 16, 22, 28, 30, 31, 35, 43, and 44, Ruins of Alph, Ilex Forest, Ecruteak City, Violet City, Mt. Silver, Viridian City, and Blackthorn City (Fish) Common
Crystal Routes 16, 22, 28, 30, 31, 35, 43, and 44, Ruins of Alph, Ilex Forest, Ecruteak City, Violet City, Mt. Silver, Viridian City, and Blackthorn City (Fish) Common
Ruby and Sapphire Trade None
FireRed and LeafGreen Routes 6, 22, 23, 25, Four Island, Fuchsia City, Viridian City, Berry Forest, Cape Brink, Cerulean City, Cerulean Cave, Icefall Cave, Ruin Valley, and Safari Zone (Fish) Common
Emerald Trade None
Platinum Routes 227 and 228 (Surf) Common
HeartGold and SoulSilver Fishing Common
Black and White Route 6, Wellspring Cave, Challenger's Cave, Victory Road, Giant Chasm (Fishing) Common
X and Y Route 14, Laverre City, Route 15, Route 16, Frost Cavern, Couriway Town, Route 19, Pokémon Village, Route 21, Victory Road (Old Rod)
Pokémon Village (Horde)
Common
Omega Ruby and Alpha Sapphire Trade None
Sun and Moon Brooklet Hill, Malie Garden Common, Uncommon

Side game locations[]

Locations
Game(s) Area(s)
Pokémon Snap River
Pokémon Channel Secret Cove
Pokémon Trozei! Phobos Sub,
Endless Level 22,
Pair Trozei,
Mr. Who's Den
Red Rescue Team & Blue Rescue Team Silent Chasm (5F-9F)
Northwind Field (1F-4F)
Waterfall Pond (1F-5F)
Explorers of Time & Explorers of Darkness Waterfall Cave (B1F-B8F)
Serenity River (B1F-B7F)
Pokémon Ranger Krokka Tunnel
Pokémon Rumble Shiny Beach


Pokédex entries[]

  • Red and Blue

    Its newly grown legs prevent it from walking well. It appears to prefer swimming over walking.

  • Yellow

    The direction of the spiral on the belly differs by area. It is more adept at swimming than walking.

  • Gold

    Because it is inept at walking on its newly grown legs, it always swims around in water.

  • Silver

    The direction of its belly spiral differs by area. The equator is thought to have an effect on this.

  • Crystal

    The swirl on its belly is its insides showing through the skin. It looks clearer after it eats.

  • Ruby

    Poliwag has a very thin skin. It is possible to see the Pokémon's spiral innards right through the skin. Despite its thinness, however, the skin is also very flexible. Even sharp fangs bounce right off it.

  • Sapphire

    Poliwag has a very thin skin. It is possible to see the Pokémon's spiral innards right through the skin. Despite its thinness, however, the skin is also very flexible. Even sharp fangs bounce right off it.

  • FireRed

    Its slick black skin is thin and damp. A part of its internal organs can be seen through the skin as a spiral pattern.

  • LeafGreen

    Its newly grown legs prevent it from walking well. It appears to prefer swimming over walking.

  • Emerald

    It is possible to see this Pokémon's spiral innards right through its thin skin. However, the skin is also very flexible. Even sharp fangs bounce right off it.

  • Diamond

    Its skin is so thin, its internal organs are visible. It has trouble walking on its newly grown feet.

  • Pearl

    Its skin is so thin, its internal organs are visible. It has trouble walking on its newly grown feet.

  • Platinum

    Its skin is so thin, its internal organs are visible. It has trouble walking on its newly grown feet.

  • HeartGold

    Because it is inept at walking on its newly grown legs, it always swims around in water.

  • SoulSilver

    The direction of its belly spiral differs by area. The equator is thought to have an effect on this.

  • Black

    Its skin is so thin, its internal organs are visible. It has trouble walking on its newly grown feet.

  • White

    Its skin is so thin, its internal organs are visible. It has trouble walking on its newly grown feet.

  • Black 2

    Its skin is so thin, its internal organs are visible. It has trouble walking on its newly grown feet.

  • White 2

    Its skin is so thin, its internal organs are visible. It has trouble walking on its newly grown feet.

  • X

    Its slick black skin is thin and damp. A part of its internal organs can be seen through the skin as a spiral pattern.

  • Y

    The direction of the spiral on the belly differs by area. It is more adept at swimming than walking.

  • Omega Ruby

    Poliwag has a very thin skin. It is possible to see the Pokémon's spiral innards right through the skin. Despite its thinness, however, the skin is also very flexible. Even sharp fangs bounce right off it.

  • Alpha Sapphire

    Poliwag has a very thin skin. It is possible to see the Pokémon's spiral innards right through the skin. Despite its thinness, however, the skin is also very flexible. Even sharp fangs bounce right off it.

  • Sun

    The swirl on its belly is its internal organs showing through. If the swirl is tinged white, that means it's affected by some disease.

  • Moon

    It's still not very good at walking. Its Trainers should train this Pokémon to walk every day.

  • Ultra Sun

    Despite the danger, it wants to come up on land. So it does its best to waddle along, but when an enemy finds it, it rushes back to the water.

  • Ultra Moon

    The direction of the swirl on their stomachs differs depending on where they live. Poliwag aficionados can tell them apart at a glance.

  • Let's Go, Pikachu!

    The direction of the spiral on the belly differs by area. It is more adept at swimming than walking.

  • Let's Go, Eevee!

    The direction of the spiral on the belly differs by area. It is more adept at swimming than walking.

  • Sword

    For Poliwag, swimming is easier than walking. The swirl pattern on its belly is actually part of the Pokémon's innards showing through the skin.

  • Shield

    In rivers with fast-flowing water, this Pokémon will cling to a rock by using its thick lips, which act like a suction cup.

  • Brilliant Diamond

    Its skin is so thin, its internal organs are visible. It has trouble walking on its newly grown feet.

  • Shining Pearl

    Its skin is so thin, its internal organs are visible. It has trouble walking on its newly grown feet.

  • Scarlet

    The swirl on its belly is its insides showing through the skin. It appears more clearly after Poliwag eats.

  • Violet

    Its legs are newly grown, and it can't walk very well. It seems to prefer swimming through the water instead.


Stats[]

Stats
HP
40
Attack
50
Defense
40
Sp. Atk
40
Sp. Def
40
Speed
90
Total
300

Learnset[]

Leveling[]

LevelingGeneration VII
Level Move Power Accuracy PP Type Cat.
1 Water Sport —% 15 Type Water HOME Water Status
5 Water Gun 40 100% 25 Type Water HOME Water Special
8 Hypnosis 60% 20 Type Psychic HOME Psychic Status
11 Bubble 40 100% 30 Type Water HOME Water Special
15 Double Slap 15 85% 10 Type Normal HOME Normal Physical
18 Rain Dance —% 5 Type Water HOME Water Status
21 Body Slam 85 100% 15 Type Normal HOME Normal Physical
25 Bubble Beam 65 100% 20 Type Water HOME Water Special
28 Mud Shot 55 95% 15 Type Ground HOME Ground Special
31 Belly Drum —% 10 Type Normal HOME Normal Status
35 Wake-Up Slap 70 100% 10 Type Fighting HOME Fighting Physical
38 Hydro Pump 110 80% 5 Type Water HOME Water Special
41 Mud Bomb 65 85% 10 Type Ground HOME Ground Special
Bold indicates this Pokémon receives STAB from this move.
Italic indicates an evolved or alternate form of this Pokémon receives STAB from this move.

LevelingGeneration VI
Level Move Power Accuracy PP Type Cat. Contest Cat. Appeal Jam
1 Water Sport —% 15 Type Water HOME Water Status Cute 2 0 ♥
5 Bubble 20 100% 30 Type Water HOME Water Special Cute 4 0 ♥
8 Hypnosis 60% 20 Type Psychic HOME Psychic Status Smart 1 3 ♥
11 Water Gun 40 100% 25 Type Water HOME Water Special Cute 4 0 ♥
15 Double Slap 15 85% 10 Type Normal HOME Normal Physical Cute 1 0 ♥
18 Rain Dance —% 5 Type Water HOME Water Status Beauty 1 0 ♥
21 Body Slam 85 100% 15 Type Normal HOME Normal Physical Tough 1 4 ♥
25 Bubble Beam 65 100% 20 Type Water HOME Water Special Beauty 2 3 ♥
28 Mud Shot 55 95% 15 Type Ground HOME Ground Special Tough 4 0 ♥
31 Belly Drum —% 10 Type Water HOME Water Special Cute 6 0 ♥
35 Wake-Up Slap 70 100% 10 Type Fighting HOME Fighting Physical Tough 3 0 ♥
38 Hydro Pump 110 80% 5 Type Water HOME Water Special Beauty 1 0 ♥
41 Mud Bomb 65 85% 10 Type Ground HOME Ground Special Cute 2 3 ♥
Bold indicates this Pokémon receives STAB from this move.
Italic indicates an evolved or alternate form of this Pokémon receives STAB from this move.

LevelingGeneration V
Level Move Power Accuracy PP Type Cat.
1 Water Sport —% 15 Type Water HOME Water Status
5 Bubble 20 100% 30 Type Water HOME Water Special
8 Hypnosis 60% 20 Type Psychic HOME Psychic Status
11 Water Gun 40 100% 25 Type Water HOME Water Special
15 Double Slap 15 85% 10 Type Normal HOME Normal Physical
18 Rain Dance —% 5 Type Water HOME Water Status
21 Body Slam 85 100% 15 Type Normal HOME Normal Physical
25 Bubble Beam 65 100% 20 Type Water HOME Water Special
28 Mud Shot 55 95% 15 Type Ground HOME Ground Special
31 Belly Drum —% 10 Type Water HOME Water Special
35 Wake-Up Slap 70 100% 10 Type Fighting HOME Fighting Physical
38 Hydro Pump 110 80% 5 Type Water HOME Water Special
41 Mud Bomb 65 85% 10 Type Ground HOME Ground Special
Bold indicates this Pokémon receives STAB from this move.
Italic indicates an evolved or alternate form of this Pokémon receives STAB from this move.

LevelingGeneration IV
Level Move Power Accuracy PP Type Cat. Contest Cat. Appeal
1 Water Sport —% 15 Type Water HOME Water Status Cute 2
5 Bubble 20 100% 30 Type Water HOME Water Special Cute 2
8 Hypnosis 60% 20 Type Psychic HOME Psychic Status Smart 2
11 Water Gun 40 100% 25 Type Water HOME Water Special Cute 3
15 Double Slap 15 85% 10 Type Normal HOME Normal Physical Tough 2
18 Rain Dance —% 5 Type Water HOME Water Status Tough 2
21 Body Slam 85 100% 15 Type Normal HOME Normal Physical Tough 3
25 Bubble Beam 65 100% 20 Type Water HOME Water Special Beauty 2
28 Mud Shot 55 95% 15 Type Ground HOME Ground Special Tough 2
31 Belly Drum —% 10 Type Water HOME Water Special Cute 2
35 Wake-Up Slap 70 100% 10 Type Fighting HOME Fighting Physical Smart 2
38 Hydro Pump 110 80% 5 Type Water HOME Water Special Beauty 2
41 Mud Bomb 65 85% 10 Type Ground HOME Ground Special Smart 2
Bold indicates this Pokémon receives STAB from this move.
Italic indicates an evolved or alternate form of this Pokémon receives STAB from this move.

LevelingGeneration III
Level Move Power Accuracy PP Type Contest Cat. Appeal Jam
1 Bubble 20 100% 30 Type Water HOME Water Cute 2 2 ♥
7 Hypnosis 60% 20 Type Psychic HOME Psychic Smart 1 3 ♥
13 Water Gun 40 100% 25 Type Water HOME Water Cute 4 0 ♥
19 Double Slap 15 85% 10 Type Normal HOME Normal Tough 2 1 ♥
25 Rain Dance —% 5 Type Water HOME Water Tough 1 2 ♥
31 Body Slam 85 100% 15 Type Normal HOME Normal Tough 1 4 ♥
37 Belly Drum —% 10 Type Water HOME Water Cute 1 0 ♥
43 Hydro Pump 110 80% 5 Type Water HOME Water Beauty 4 0 ♥
Bold indicates this Pokémon receives STAB from this move.
Italic indicates an evolved or alternate form of this Pokémon receives STAB from this move.

LevelingGeneration II
Level Move Power Accuracy PP Type
1 Bubble 20 100% 30 Type Water HOME Water
7 Hypnosis 60% 20 Type Psychic HOME Psychic
13 Water Gun 40 100% 25 Type Water HOME Water
19 Double Slap 15 85% 10 Type Normal HOME Normal
25 Rain Dance —% 5 Type Water HOME Water
31 Body Slam 85 100% 15 Type Normal HOME Normal
37 Belly Drum —% 10 Type Water HOME Water
43 Hydro Pump 110 80% 5 Type Water HOME Water
Bold indicates this Pokémon receives STAB from this move.
Italic indicates an evolved or alternate form of this Pokémon receives STAB from this move.

LevelingGeneration I
Level Move Power Accuracy PP Type
1 Bubble 20 100% 30 Type Water HOME Water
16 Hypnosis 60% 20 Type Psychic HOME Psychic
19 Water Gun 40 100% 25 Type Water HOME Water
25 Double Slap 15 85% 10 Type Normal HOME Normal
31 Body Slam 85 100% 15 Type Normal HOME Normal
38 Amnesia —% 20 Type Normal HOME Normal
45 Hydro Pump 110 80% 5 Type Water HOME Water
Bold indicates this Pokémon receives STAB from this move.
Italic indicates an evolved or alternate form of this Pokémon receives STAB from this move.

TM/HM[]

TMs, TRs, and HMs Generation VII
TM/HM/TR Move Power Accuracy PP Type Cat.
TM06 Toxic 90% 10 Type Poison HOME Poison Status
TM07 Hail —% 10 Type Ice HOME Ice Status
TM10 Hidden Power 60 100% 15 Type Normal HOME Normal Special
TM13 Ice Beam 90 100% 10 Type Ice HOME Ice Special
TM14 Blizzard 110 70% 5 Type Ice HOME Ice Special
TM17 Protect —% 10 Type Normal HOME Normal Status
TM18 Rain Dance —% 5 Type Water HOME Water Status
TM21 Frustration 100% 20 Type Normal HOME Normal Physical
TM27 Return 100% 20 Type Normal HOME Normal Physical
TM29 Psychic 90 100% 10 Type Psychic HOME Psychic Special
TM32 Double Team —% 15 Type Normal HOME Normal Status
TM42 Facade 70 100% 20 Type Normal HOME Normal Physical
TM44 Rest —% 10 Type Psychic HOME Psychic Status
TM45 Attract 100% 15 Type Normal HOME Normal Status
TM46 Thief 60 100% 25 Type Dark HOME Dark Physical
TM48 Round 60 100% 15 Type Normal HOME Normal Special
TM55 Scald 80 100% 15 Type Water HOME Water Special
TM87 Swagger 85% 15 Type Normal HOME Normal Status
TM88 Sleep Talk —% 10 Type Normal HOME Normal Status
TM90 Substitute —% 10 Type Normal HOME Normal Status
TM94 Surf 90 100% 15 Type Water HOME Water Special
TM98 Waterfall 80 100% 15 Type Water HOME Water Physical
TM100 Confide —% 20 Type Normal HOME Normal Status
Bold indicates this Pokémon receives STAB from this move.
Italic indicates an evolved or alternate form of this Pokémon receives STAB from this move.

TMs, TRs, and HMs Generation VI
TM/HM/TR Move Power Accuracy PP Type Cat. Contest Cat. Appeal Jam
TM06 Toxic 90% 10 Type Poison HOME Poison Status Clever 3 0 ♥
TM07 Hail —% 10 Type Ice HOME Ice Status Beautiful 2 1 ♥
TM10 Hidden Power 60 100% 15 Type Normal HOME Normal Special Clever 3 0 ♥
TM13 Ice Beam 90 100% 10 Type Ice HOME Ice Special Beautiful 1 4 ♥
TM14 Blizzard 110 70% 5 Type Ice HOME Ice Special Beautiful 1 3 ♥
TM17 Protect —% 10 Type Normal HOME Normal Status Cute 2 0 ♥
TM18 Rain Dance —% 5 Type Water HOME Water Status Beautiful 1 0 ♥
TM21 Frustration 100% 20 Type Normal HOME Normal Physical Cute 2 3 ♥
TM27 Return 100% 20 Type Normal HOME Normal Physical Cute 4 0 ♥
TM28 Dig 80 100% 10 Type Ground HOME Ground Physical Tough 2 0 ♥
TM29 Psychic 90 100% 10 Type Psychic HOME Psychic Special Clever 4 0 ♥
TM32 Double Team —% 15 Type Normal HOME Normal Status Cool 1 0 ♥
TM42 Facade 70 100% 20 Type Normal HOME Normal Physical Cute 2 0 ♥
TM44 Rest —% 10 Type Psychic HOME Psychic Status Cute 1 0 ♥
TM45 Attract 100% 15 Type Normal HOME Normal Status Cute 2 0 ♥
TM46 Thief 60 100% 25 Type Dark HOME Dark Physical Tough 1 0 ♥
TM48 Round 60 100% 15 Type Normal HOME Normal Special Beautiful 2 0 ♥
TM55 Scald 80 100% 15 Type Water HOME Water Special Tough 2 0 ♥
TM87 Swagger 90% 15 Type Normal HOME Normal Status Cute 3 0 ♥
TM88 Sleep Talk —% 10 Type Normal HOME Normal Status Cute 1 0 ♥
TM90 Substitute —% 10 Type Normal HOME Normal Status Cute 2 0 ♥
TM94 Secret PowerORAS 70 100% 20 Type Normal HOME Normal Physical Clever 1 0 ♥
TM100 Confide —% 20 Type Normal HOME Normal Status Cute 3 0 ♥
HM03 Surf 90 100% 15 Type Water HOME Water Special Beautiful 2 2 ♥
HM05 Waterfall 80 100% 15 Type Water HOME Water Physical Tough 4 0 ♥
HM07 DiveORAS 80 100% 10 Type Water HOME Water Physical Beautiful 2 0 ♥
Bold indicates this Pokémon receives STAB from this move.
Italic indicates an evolved or alternate form of this Pokémon receives STAB from this move.

TMs, TRs, and HMs Generation V
TM/HM/TR Move Power Accuracy PP Type Cat.
TM06 Toxic 90% 10 Type Poison HOME Poison Status
TM07 Hail —% 10 Type Ice HOME Ice Status
TM10 Hidden Power 100% 15 Type Normal HOME Normal Special
TM13 Ice Beam 95 100% 10 Type Ice HOME Ice Special
TM14 Blizzard 120 70% 5 Type Ice HOME Ice Special
TM17 Protect —% 10 Type Normal HOME Normal Status
TM18 Rain Dance —% 5 Type Water HOME Water Status
TM21 Frustration 100% 20 Type Normal HOME Normal Physical
TM27 Return 100% 20 Type Normal HOME Normal Physical
TM28 Dig 80 100% 10 Type Ground HOME Ground Physical
TM29 Psychic 90 100% 10 Type Psychic HOME Psychic Special
TM32 Double Team —% 15 Type Normal HOME Normal Status
TM42 Facade 70 100% 20 Type Normal HOME Normal Physical
TM44 Rest —% 10 Type Psychic HOME Psychic Status
TM45 Attract 100% 15 Type Normal HOME Normal Status
TM46 Thief 40 100% 10 Type Dark HOME Dark Physical
TM48 Round 60 100% 15 Type Normal HOME Normal Special
TM55 Scald 80 100% 15 Type Water HOME Water Special
TM87 Swagger 90% 15 Type Normal HOME Normal Status
TM90 Substitute —% 10 Type Normal HOME Normal Status
HM03 Surf 95 100% 15 Type Water HOME Water Special
HM05 Waterfall 80 100% 15 Type Water HOME Water Physical
HM06 Dive 80 100% 10 Type Water HOME Water Physical
Bold indicates this Pokémon receives STAB from this move.
Italic indicates an evolved or alternate form of this Pokémon receives STAB from this move.

TMs, TRs, and HMs Generation IV
TM/HM/TR Move Power Accuracy PP Type Cat. Contest Cat. Appeal
TM03 Water Pulse 60 100% 20 Type Water HOME Water Special Beauty 2
TM06 Toxic 85% 10 Type Poison HOME Poison Status Smart 2
TM07 Hail —% 10 Type Ice HOME Ice Status Beauty 2
TM10 Hidden Power 100% 15 Type Normal HOME Normal Special Smart 1
TM13 Ice Beam 95 100% 10 Type Ice HOME Ice Special Beauty 2
TM14 Blizzard 120 70% 5 Type Ice HOME Ice Special Beauty 2
TM17 Protect —% 10 Type Normal HOME Normal Status Cute 0
TM18 Rain Dance —% 5 Type Water HOME Water Status Tough 2
TM21 Frustration 100% 20 Type Normal HOME Normal Physical Cute 2
TM27 Return 100% 20 Type Normal HOME Normal Physical Cute 2
TM28 Dig 80 100% 10 Type Ground HOME Ground Physical Smart 1
TM29 Psychic 90 100% 10 Type Psychic HOME Psychic Special Smart 2
TM32 Double Team —% 15 Type Normal HOME Normal Status Cool 2
TM42 Facade 70 100% 20 Type Normal HOME Normal Physical Cute 2
TM43 Secret Power 70 100% 20 Type Normal HOME Normal Physical Smart 2
TM44 Rest —% 10 Type Psychic HOME Psychic Status Cute 0
TM45 Attract 100% 15 Type Normal HOME Normal Status Cute 2
TM46 Thief 40 100% 10 Type Dark HOME Dark Physical Tough 0
TM58 Endure —% 10 Type Normal HOME Normal Status Tough 2
TM78 Captivate 100% 20 Type Normal HOME Normal Status Beauty 2
TM82 Sleep Talk —% 10 Type Normal HOME Normal Status Cute 3
TM83 Natural Gift 100% 15 Type Normal HOME Normal Physical Cool 2
TM87 Swagger 90% 15 Type Normal HOME Normal Status Cute 2
TM90 Substitute —% 10 Type Normal HOME Normal Status Smart 1
HM03 Surf 95 100% 15 Type Water HOME Water Special Beauty 2
HM05HGSS Whirlpool 15 70% 15 Type Water HOME Water Special Beauty 0
HM07 Waterfall 80 100% 15 Type Water HOME Water Physical Tough 3
Bold indicates this Pokémon receives STAB from this move.
Italic indicates an evolved or alternate form of this Pokémon receives STAB from this move.

TMs, TRs, and HMs Generation III
TM/HM/TR Move Power Accuracy PP Type Contest Cat. Appeal Jam
TM03 Water Pulse 60 100% 20 Type Water HOME Water Beauty 2 0 ♥
TM06 Toxic 85% 10 Type Poison HOME Poison Smart 3 0 ♥
TM07 Hail —% 10 Type Ice HOME Ice Beauty 1 3 ♥
TM10 Hidden Power 100% 15 Type Normal HOME Normal Smart 3 0 ♥
TM13 Ice Beam 95 100% 10 Type Ice HOME Ice Beauty 2 1 ♥
TM14 Blizzard 120 70% 5 Type Ice HOME Ice Beauty 4 0 ♥
TM17 Protect —% 10 Type Normal HOME Normal Cute 1 0 ♥
TM18 Rain Dance —% 5 Type Water HOME Water Tough 1 0 ♥
TM21 Frustration 100% 20 Type Normal HOME Normal Cute 1 0 ♥
TM27 Return 100% 20 Type Normal HOME Normal Cute 1 0 ♥
TM28 Dig 60 100% 10 Type Ground HOME Ground Smart 1 0 ♥
TM29 Psychic 90 100% 10 Type Psychic HOME Psychic Smart 1 3 ♥
TM32 Double Team —% 15 Type Normal HOME Normal Cool 2 0 ♥
TM42 Facade 70 100% 20 Type Normal HOME Normal Cute 2 0 ♥
TM43 Secret Power 70 100% 20 Type Normal HOME Normal Smart 1 0 ♥
TM44 Rest —% 10 Type Psychic HOME Psychic Cute 2 0 ♥
TM45 Attract 100% 15 Type Normal HOME Normal Cute 2 0 ♥
TM46 Thief 40 100% 10 Type Dark HOME Dark Tough 1 0 ♥
HM03 Surf 95 100% 15 Type Water HOME Water Beauty 3 0 ♥
HM07 Waterfall 80 100% 15 Type Water HOME Water Tough 2 0 ♥
HM08 Dive 60 100% 10 Type Water HOME Water Beauty 2 0 ♥
Bold indicates this Pokémon receives STAB from this move.
Italic indicates an evolved or alternate form of this Pokémon receives STAB from this move.

TMs, TRs, and HMs Generation II
TM/HM/TR Move Power Accuracy PP Type
TM02 Headbutt 70 100% 15 Type Normal HOME Normal
TM03 Curse —% 10 Type ??? HOME ???
TM06 Toxic 85% 10 Type Poison HOME Poison
TM10 Hidden Power 100% 15 Type Normal HOME Normal
TM13 Snore 40 100% 15 Type Normal HOME Normal
TM14 Blizzard 120 70% 5 Type Ice HOME Ice
TM16 Icy Wind 55 95% 15 Type Ice HOME Ice
TM17 Protect —% 10 Type Normal HOME Normal
TM18 Rain Dance —% 5 Type Water HOME Water
TM20 Endure —% 10 Type Normal HOME Normal
TM21 Frustration 100% 20 Type Normal HOME Normal
TM27 Return 100% 20 Type Normal HOME Normal
TM29 Psychic 90 100% 10 Type Psychic HOME Psychic
TM32 Double Team —% 15 Type Normal HOME Normal
TM34 Swagger 90% 15 Type Normal HOME Normal
TM35 Sleep Talk —% 10 Type Normal HOME Normal
TM40 Defense Curl —% 40 Type Normal HOME Normal
TM44 Rest —% 10 Type Psychic HOME Psychic
TM45 Attract 100% 15 Type Normal HOME Normal
TM46 Thief 40 100% 10 Type Dark HOME Dark
HM03 Surf 95 100% 15 Type Water HOME Water
HM06 Whirlpool 15 70% 15 Type Water HOME Water
HM07 Waterfall 80 100% 15 Type Water HOME Water
Bold indicates this Pokémon receives STAB from this move.
Italic indicates an evolved or alternate form of this Pokémon receives STAB from this move.

TMs, TRs, and HMs Generation I
TM/HM/TR Move Power Accuracy PP Type
TM06 Toxic 85% 10 Type Poison HOME Poison
TM08 Body Slam 85 100% 15 Type Normal HOME Normal
TM09 Take Down 90 85% 20 Type Normal HOME Normal
TM10 Double-Edge 100 100% 15 Type Normal HOME Normal
TM11 BubbleBeam 65 100% 20 Type Water HOME Water
TM12 Water Gun 40 100% 25 Type Water HOME Water
TM13 Ice Beam 95 100% 10 Type Ice HOME Ice
TM14 Blizzard 120 90% 5 Type Ice HOME Ice
TM20 Rage 20 100% 20 Type Normal HOME Normal
TM29 Psychic 90 100% 10 Type Psychic HOME Psychic
TM31 Mimic —% 10 Type Normal HOME Normal
TM32 Double Team —% 15 Type Normal HOME Normal
TM34 Bide —% 10 Type Normal HOME Normal
TM40 Skull Bash 100 100% 15 Type Normal HOME Normal
TM44 Rest —% 10 Type Psychic HOME Psychic
TM46 Psywave 80% 15 Type Psychic HOME Psychic
TM50 Substitute —% 10 Type Normal HOME Normal
HM03 Surf 95 100% 15 Type Water HOME Water
Bold indicates this Pokémon receives STAB from this move.
Italic indicates an evolved or alternate form of this Pokémon receives STAB from this move.

Breeding[]

Breeding Generation VII
Move Father Power Accuracy PP Type Category
Bubble Beam Poliwag, Poliwhirl, Poliwrath, Politoed, Horsea, Seadra, Kingdra, Marill, Azumarill, Corsola, Remoraid, Octillery, Mantine, Lotad, Lombre, Surskit, Corphish, Crawdaunt, Piplup, Prinplup, Empoleon, Tympole, Palpitoad, Seismitoad, Ducklett, Swanna, Clauncher, Clawitzer, Popplio, Brionne, Primarina, Dewpider, Araquanid 65 100% 20 Type Water HOME Water Special
Encore Seel, Dewgong, Spheal, Sealeo, Walrein, Popplio, Brionne, Primarina 100% 5 Type Normal HOME Normal Status
Endeavor Mudkip, Marshtomp, Swampert 100% 5 Type Normal HOME Normal Physical
Endure Kabuto, Kabutops, Corsola, Stunfisk —% 10 Type Normal HOME Normal Status
Haze Wooper, Quagsire, Surskit, Greninja —% 30 Type Ice HOME Ice Status
Ice Ball Spheal, Sealeo, Walrein 30 90% 20 Type Ice HOME Ice Physical
Mind Reader Poliwrath —% 5 Type Normal HOME Normal Status
Mist Lapras, Wooper, Quagsire, Lotad, Wingull, Pelipper, Surskit, Piplup, Prinplup, Empoleon —% 30 Type Ice HOME Ice Status
Mud Shot Poliwag, Poliwhirl, Omanyte, Omastar, Kabuto, Kabutops, Wooper, Quagsire, Marshtomp, Swampert, Tympole, Palpitoad, Seismitoad, Stunfisk 55 95% 15 Type Ground HOME Ground Special
Refresh Corsola, Milotic —% 20 Type Normal HOME Normal Status
Splash Feebas, Clauncher, Clawitzer —% 40 Type Normal HOME Normal Status
Water Pulse Squirtle, Wartortle, Blastoise, Psyduck, Golduck, Slowpoke, Slowbro, Slowking, Lapras, Remoraid, Mantine, Wingull, Pelipper, Milotic, Huntail, Gorebyss, Shellos, Gastrodon, Ducklett, Swanna, Alomomola, Froakie, Frogadier, Greninja, Skrelp, Dragalge, Clauncher, Clawitzer 60 100% 20 Type Water HOME Water Special
Water Sport Psyduck, Golduck, Poliwag, Poliwhirl, Seel, Marill, Azumarill, Lombre, Pelipper, Surskit, Masquerain, Milotic, Gorebyss, Piplup, Prinplup, Buizel, Floatzel, Ducklett, Swanna, Alomomola, Clauncher, Clawitzer, Dewpider, Pyukumuku —% 15 Type Water HOME Water Status

Bold indicates this Pokémon receives STAB from this move.
Italic indicates an evolved or alternate form of this Pokémon receives STAB from this move.
* indicates this move requires chain breeding.
◊ indicates the father must learn this move in a previous generation.
♈ indicates the father must learn this move via a TM.

Breeding Generation VI
Move Father Power Accuracy PP Type Category Contest Category Appeal Jam
Bubble Beam Poliwag, Poliwhirl, Poliwrath, Politoed, Horsea, Seadra, Kingdra, Marill, Azumarill, Corsola, Remoraid, Octillery, Mantine, Lotad, Lombre, Surskit, Corphish, Crawdaunt, Piplup, Prinplup, Empoleon, Tympole, Palpitoad, Seismitoad, Ducklett, Swanna, Clauncher, Clawitzer 65 100% 20 Type Water HOME Water Special Beautiful 2 3 ♥
Encore Seel, Dewgong, Spheal, Sealeo, Walrein 100% 5 Type Normal HOME Normal Status Cute 2 0 ♥
Endeavor Mudkip, Marshtomp, Swampert 100% 5 Type Normal HOME Normal Physical Tough 2 0 ♥
Endure Kabuto, Kabutops, Corsola, Stunfisk —% 10 Type Normal HOME Normal Status Tough 3 0 ♥
Haze Wooper, Quagsire, Surskit, Greninja —% 30 Type Ice HOME Ice Status Beautiful 3 0 ♥
Ice Ball Spheal, Sealeo, Walrein 30 90% 20 Type Ice HOME Ice Physical Beautiful 3 0 ♥
Mind Reader Poliwrath —% 5 Type Normal HOME Normal Status Clever 3 0 ♥
Mist Lapras, Wooper, Quagsire, Lotad, Lombre, Ludicolo, Wingull, Pelipper, Surskit, Masquerain, Piplup, Prinplup, Empoleon —% 30 Type Ice HOME Ice Status Beautiful 1 0 ♥
Mud Shot Poliwag, Poliwhirl, Omanyte, Omastar, Kabuto, Kabutops, Wooper, Quagsire, Marshtomp, Swampert, Tympole, Palpitoad, Seismitoad, Stunfisk 55 95% 15 Type Ground HOME Ground Special Tough 4 0 ♥
Refresh Corsola, Milotic —% 20 Type Normal HOME Normal Status Cute 2 0 ♥
Splash Feebas, Clauncher, Clawitzer —% 40 Type Normal HOME Normal Status Cute 4 0 ♥
Water Pulse Squirtle, Wartortle, Blastoise, Psyduck, Golduck, Slowpoke, Slowbro, Slowking, Lapras, Remoraid, Mantine, Wingull, Pelipper, Milotic, Huntail, Gorebyss, Shellos, Gastrodon, Ducklett, Swanna, Alomomola, Froakie, Frogadier, Greninja, Skrelp, Dragalge, Clauncher, Clawitzer 60 100% 20 Type Water HOME Water Special Beautiful 3 0 ♥
Water Sport Psyduck, Golduck, Poliwag, Poliwhirl, Seel, Marill, Azumarill, Lombre, Pelipper, Surskit, Masquerain, Milotic, Piplup, Prinplup, Buizel, Floatzel, Ducklett, Swanna, Alomomola, Clauncher, Clawitzer —% 15 Type Water HOME Water Status Cute 2 0 ♥

Bold indicates this Pokémon receives STAB from this move.
Italic indicates an evolved or alternate form of this Pokémon receives STAB from this move.
* indicates this move requires chain breeding.
◊ indicates the father must learn this move in a previous generation.
♈ indicates the father must learn this move via a TM.

Breeding Generation V
Move Father Power Accuracy PP Type Category
BubbleBeam Poliwag, Poliwhirl, Poliwrath, Politoed, Horsea, Seadra, Kingdra, Marill, Azumarill, Corsola, Remoraid, Octillery, Mantine, Lotad, Lombre, Surskit, Corphish, Crawdaunt, Piplup, Prinplup, Empoleon, Tympole, Palpitoad, Seismitoad, Ducklett, Swanna 65 100% 20 Type Water HOME Water Special
Encore Seel, Dewgong, Spheal, Sealeo, Walrein 100% 5 Type Normal HOME Normal Status
Endeavor Mudkip, Marshtomp, Swampert 100% 5 Type Normal HOME Normal Physical
Endure Kabuto, Kabutops, Corsola, Stunfisk —% 10 Type Normal HOME Normal Status
Haze Wooper, Quagsire, Surskit —% 30 Type Ice HOME Ice Status
Ice Ball Spheal, Sealeo, Walrein 30 90% 20 Type Ice HOME Ice Physical
Mind Reader Poliwrath —% 5 Type Normal HOME Normal Status
Mist Lapras, Wooper, Quagsire, Lotad, Lombre, Ludicolo, Wingull, Pelipper, Surskit, Masquerain, Piplup, Prinplup, Empoleon —% 30 Type Ice HOME Ice Status
Mud Shot Poliwag, Poliwhirl, Omanyte, Omastar, Kabuto, Kabutops, Wooper, Quagsire, Marshtomp, Swampert, Tympole, Palpitoad, Seismitoad, Stunfisk 55 95% 15 Type Ground HOME Ground Special
Refresh Corsola, Milotic —% 20 Type Normal HOME Normal Status
Splash Feebas —% 40 Type Normal HOME Normal Status
Water Pulse Squirtle, Wartortle, Blastoise, Psyduck, Golduck, Slowpoke, Slowbro, Slowking, Lapras, Remoraid, Mantine, Wingull, Pelipper, Milotic, Huntail, Gorebyss, Shellos, Gastrodon, Ducklett, Swanna, Alomomola 60 100% 20 Type Water HOME Water Special
Water Sport Psyduck, Golduck, Poliwag, Poliwhirl, Seel, Lombre, Surskit, Masquerain, Milotic, Piplup, Prinplup, Buizel, Floatzel, Ducklett, Swanna, Alomomola —% 15 Type Water HOME Water Status

Bold indicates this Pokémon receives STAB from this move.
Italic indicates an evolved or alternate form of this Pokémon receives STAB from this move.
* indicates this move requires chain breeding.
◊ indicates the father must learn this move in a previous generation.
♈ indicates the father must learn this move via a TM.

Breeding Generation IV
Move Father Power Accuracy PP Type Category Contest Category Appeal
BubbleBeam Poliwag, Poliwhirl, Poliwrath, Politoed, Horsea, Seadra, Kingdra, Marill, Azumarill, Corsola, Remoraid, Octillery, Mantine, Surskit, Masquerain, Corphish, Crawdaunt, Piplup, Prinplup, Empoleon 65 100% 20 Type Water HOME Water Special Beauty 2
EncoreHGSS Seel, Dewgong, Slakoth, Vigoroth, Slaking, Spheal, Sealeo, Walrein 100% 5 Type Normal HOME Normal Status Cute 1
Endeavor Mudkip, Marshtomp, Swampert, Corphish, Crawdaunt 100% 5 Type Normal HOME Normal Physical Tough 2
Haze Squirtle, Wartortle, Blastoise, Dratini, Dragonair, Dragonite, Wooper, Quagsire, Remoraid, Octillery, Mantine, Wingull, Pelipper, Surskit, Masquerain, Feebas, Milotic —% 30 Type Ice HOME Ice Status Beauty 2
Ice Ball Mudkip, Marshtomp, Swampert, Spheal, Sealeo, Walrein 30 90% 20 Type Ice HOME Ice Physical Beauty 2
Mind Reader Poliwrath —% 5 Type Normal HOME Normal Status Smart 1
Mist Squirtle, Wartortle, Blastoise, Lapras, Wooper, Quagsire, Lotad, Lombre, Ludicolo, Wingull, Pelipper, Piplup, Prinplup, Empoleon —% 30 Type Ice HOME Ice Status Beauty 2
Mud Shot Poliwag, Poliwhirl, Wooper, Quagsire, Marshtomp, Swampert 55 95% 15 Type Ground HOME Ground Special Tough 2
Refresh Squirtle, Wartortle, Blastoise, Psyduck, Golduck, Corsola, Mudkip, Marshtomp, Swampert, Milotic —% 20 Type Normal HOME Normal Status Cute 0
Splash Horsea, Seadra, Kingdra, Magikarp, Gyarados, Marill, Azumarill, Mantine, Feebas, Milotic —% 40 Type Normal HOME Normal Status Cute 0
Water Sport Psyduck, Golduck, Seel, Dewgong, Totodile, Croconaw, Feraligatr, Mantine, Lombre, Ludicolo, Wingull, Pelipper, Surskit, Masquerain, Milotic, Spheal, Sealeo, Walrein, Piplup, Prinplup, Empoleon, Bidoof, Bibarel, Buizel, Floatzel —% 15 Type Water HOME Water Status Cute 2

Bold indicates this Pokémon receives STAB from this move.
Italic indicates an evolved or alternate form of this Pokémon receives STAB from this move.
* indicates this move requires chain breeding.
◊ indicates the father must learn this move in a previous generation.
♈ indicates the father must learn this move via a TM.

Breeding Generation III
Move Father Power Accuracy PP Type Contest Category Appeal Jam
BubbleBeam Marill, Azumarill, Corsola, Remoraid, Octillery, Mantine, Surskit, Masquerain, Corphish, Crawdaunt 65 100% 20 Type Water HOME Water Beauty 1 3 ♥
Haze Wooper, Quagsire, Surskit, Masquerain —% 30 Type Ice HOME Ice Beauty 3 0 ♥
Ice Ball Spheal, Sealeo, Walrein 30 90% 20 Type Ice HOME Ice Beauty 3 0 ♥
Mind Reader Poliwrath —% 5 Type Normal HOME Normal Smart 3 0 ♥
Mist Lapras, Wooper, Quagsire, Lotad, Lombre, Ludicolo, Wingull, Pelipper, Surskit, Masquerain —% 30 Type Ice HOME Ice Beauty 1 0 ♥
Splash Marill, Azumarill, Feebas, Milotic —% 40 Type Normal HOME Normal Cute 2 0 ♥
Water Sport Psyduck, Golduck, Lombre, Ludicolo, Surskit, Masquerain, Milotic —% 15 Type Water HOME Water Cute 4 0 ♥

Bold indicates this Pokémon receives STAB from this move.
Italic indicates an evolved or alternate form of this Pokémon receives STAB from this move.
* indicates this move requires chain breeding.
◊ indicates the father must learn this move in a previous generation.
♈ indicates the father must learn this move via a TM.

Breeding Generation II
Move Father Power Accuracy PP Type
BubbleBeam Marill, Azumarill, Corsola, Remoraid, Octillery, Mantine 65 100% 20 Type Water HOME Water
Haze Wooper, Quagsire —% 30 Type Ice HOME Ice
Mind Reader Poliwrath —% 5 Type Normal HOME Normal
Mist Lapras, Wooper, Quagsire —% 30 Type Ice HOME Ice
Splash * Horsea, Seadra, Kingdra —% 40 Type Normal HOME Normal

Bold indicates this Pokémon receives STAB from this move.
Italic indicates an evolved or alternate form of this Pokémon receives STAB from this move.
* indicates this move requires chain breeding.
◊ indicates the father must learn this move in a previous generation.
♈ indicates the father must learn this move via a TM.

Tutoring[]

Tutoring Generation VII
Move Power Accuracy PP Type Cat.
Endeavor USUM 100% 5 Type Normal HOME Normal Physical
Helping Hand USUM —% 20 Type Normal HOME Normal Status
Icy Wind USUM 55 95% 15 Type Ice HOME Ice Special
Snore USUM 50 100% 15 Type Normal HOME Normal Special
Water Pulse USUM 60 100% 20 Type Water HOME Water Special
Bold indicates this Pokémon receives STAB from this move.
Italic indicates an evolved or alternate form of this Pokémon receives STAB from this move.

Tutoring Generation VI
Move Power Accuracy PP Type Cat. Contest Cat. Appeal Jam
Endeavor ORAS 100% 5 Type Normal HOME Normal Physical Tough 2 0 ♥
Helping Hand ORAS —% 20 Type Normal HOME Normal Status Clever 4 0 ♥
Icy Wind ORAS 55 95% 15 Type Ice HOME Ice Special Beautiful 4 0 ♥
Snore ORAS 50 100% 15 Type Normal HOME Normal Special Cute 4 0 ♥
Water Pulse ORAS 60 100% 20 Type Water HOME Water Special Beautiful 3 0 ♥
Bold indicates this Pokémon receives STAB from this move.
Italic indicates an evolved or alternate form of this Pokémon receives STAB from this move.

Tutoring Generation V
Move Power Accuracy PP Type Cat.
Endeavor  100% 5 Type Normal HOME Normal Physical
Helping Hand  —% 20 Type Normal HOME Normal Status
Icy Wind  55 95% 15 Type Ice HOME Ice Special
Sleep Talk  —% 10 Type Normal HOME Normal Status
Snore  40 100% 15 Type Normal HOME Normal Special
Bold indicates this Pokémon receives STAB from this move.
Italic indicates an evolved or alternate form of this Pokémon receives STAB from this move.

Tutoring Generation IV
Move Power Accuracy PP Type Cat. Contest Cat. Appeal
Dive  80 100% 10 Type Water HOME Water Physical Beauty 1
Headbutt HGSS 70 100% 15 Type Normal HOME Normal Physical Tough 3
Helping Hand  —% 20 Type Normal HOME Normal Status Smart 1
Icy Wind  55 95% 15 Type Ice HOME Ice Special Beauty 2
Snore  40 100% 15 Type Normal HOME Normal Special Cute 3
Bold indicates this Pokémon receives STAB from this move.
Italic indicates an evolved or alternate form of this Pokémon receives STAB from this move.

Tutoring Generation III
Move Power Accuracy PP Type Contest Cat. Appeal Jam
Body Slam FRLGEXD 85 100% 15 Type Normal HOME Normal Tough 1 4 ♥
Defense Curl E —% 40 Type Normal HOME Normal Cute 2 0 ♥
Double-Edge FRLGEXD 120 100% 15 Type Normal HOME Normal Tough 6 0 ♥
Endure E —% 10 Type Normal HOME Normal Tough 2 0 ♥
Icy Wind EXD 55 95% 15 Type Ice HOME Ice Beauty 1 3 ♥
Mimic FRLGEXD —% 10 Type Normal HOME Normal Cute 1 0 ♥
Sleep Talk E —% 10 Type Normal HOME Normal Cute 3 0 ♥
Snore E 40 100% 15 Type Normal HOME Normal Cute 4 0 ♥
Substitute FRLGEXD —% 10 Type Normal HOME Normal Smart 2 0 ♥
Swagger EXD 90% 15 Type Normal HOME Normal Cute 2 0 ♥
Bold indicates this Pokémon receives STAB from this move.
Italic indicates an evolved or alternate form of this Pokémon receives STAB from this move.

Tutoring Generation II
Move Power Accuracy PP Type
Ice Beam C 95 100% 10 Type Ice HOME Ice
Bold indicates this Pokémon receives STAB from this move.
Italic indicates an evolved or alternate form of this Pokémon receives STAB from this move.

Sprites[]

Appearances[]

Anime[]

Petting Spots[]

  • Favored Spot: Top of head
  • Disfavored Spot: Stomach swirls

Trivia[]

  • Poliwag is Satoshi Tajiri's favorite Pokémon, as confirmed in an interview on the TV show GameCenter CX in 2004.
  • Poliwag shares the same in-game cry/sound with Ditto's. This was fixed in Generation VI.
  • Poliwag shares the same species name with Tympole, they're both known has the Tadpole Pokémon.
  • Poliwag's base EXP yield was changed from 77 to 60 in Generation V.
    • This reflects its National Pokédex number.
  • Poliwag's skin is said to be black in FireRed. This only applies to its original Generation I sprite for Red and Blue, however, as starting from yellow it has blue skin (probably due to a similar situation to Jynx or due to technical limitations).

Origin[]

Poliwag is based on a tadpole. Its spiral stomach pattern is based off the transparent underbellies of tadpoles where their winding intestines are visible.

Etymology[]

Poliwag may come from polliwog and wag (referring to its long tail). The word "polliwog" means "head wiggle", so the name can be interpreted as Poliwag wiggling around both its head and tail.

Gallery[]

See also[]