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Pokemon Scarlet & Violet: How to Catch Bagon and Evolve It

Author:Kristen Update:Mar 21,2025

Embark on an epic adventure in the Paldea region with this comprehensive guide to *Pokémon Scarlet & Violet*. Whether you're a seasoned trainer or a newcomer to the world of Pokémon, this guide covers everything from the basics to advanced strategies. Master the art of catching, evolving, and battling Pokémon, uncover hidden secrets, and conquer the challenges that await you.

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Bagon, the Dragon-type Pokémon that evolves into the powerful Salamence, awaits discovery in *Pokémon Scarlet & Violet*. However, Bagon and its evolutions are exclusive to *Pokémon Violet*. This guide will help you obtain and evolve Bagon, even if you're playing *Pokémon Scarlet*.

Updated on January 13, 2025 by Renri Seong: This guide provides detailed information on obtaining Bagon, Shelgon, and Salamence, including strategies for those playing *Pokémon Scarlet*. We'll also delve into Salamence's stats, type effectiveness, and optimal movesets, helping you determine if this formidable Dragon/Flying-type pseudo-legendary Pokémon is a worthy addition to your team.

Where to Find Bagon

Bagon Location in Pokémon Violet

While Bagon can be found in several locations in *Pokémon Violet*, East Province (Area Three) is a great starting point, offering numerous caves to explore. Alternatively, a guaranteed Bagon spawn exists on a mountain in South Province (Area Five), southwest of the bridge. Dalizapa Passage, north of The Great Crater of Paldea, also provides access to Bagon and other rare Pokémon. Finally, 3-star Tera Raids (unlocked after three Gym Badges) offer a chance to encounter Bagon, potentially with its Hidden Ability.

How to Get Bagon in Pokémon Scarlet

How to Trade and Transfer Pokémon

Trading Pokemon

Since Bagon isn't found in *Pokémon Scarlet*, trading with a *Pokémon Violet* player or using Pokémon HOME is necessary. Union Circle allows for trading with other players (requires Nintendo Switch Online). Pokémon HOME offers a simpler alternative, allowing transfers from other compatible games.

  1. Open Pokémon HOME and select the source game.
  2. Move Bagon to your Basic Box and save.
  3. Open your *Pokémon Scarlet* file and transfer Bagon to a PC Box.
  4. Save your game.

How to Evolve Bagon into Shelgon and Salamence

What Level Does Bagon Evolve?

Bagon Evolution

Bagon evolves into Shelgon at level 30, and Shelgon evolves into Salamence at level 50. Auto-battling against appropriately leveled Pokémon, particularly Chansey (found in various locations), is an efficient leveling method. Alternatively, Exp. Candy can significantly accelerate the evolution process.

Shelgon and Salamence can also be obtained from 4-star and 5/6-star Tera Raids, respectively.

Is Salamence Good?

Salamence Strengths & Weaknesses

Salamence Stats

Salamence, a Gen 3 pseudo-legendary Pokémon, boasts a base stat total of 600. Its high Attack stat makes it a formidable physical attacker. Adamant or Lonely Natures are recommended. As a Dragon/Flying type, it has various type advantages but is notably weak to Ice-type attacks (x4).

HP:95
Attack:135
Special Attack:110
Defense:80
Special Defense:80
Speed:100
Total:600
Super-effective against:Dragon
Weaknesses:Ice (x4), Fairy, Dragon, Rock
Resistances:Grass (x1/4), Water, Fire, Fighting, Bug
Immunities:Ground

Salamence's moveset leans towards physical attacks, leveraging its high Attack stat. Moves like Dragon Claw are preferable to special moves like Dragon Breath. Iron Head (TM099) counters its Fairy and Rock weaknesses. For a special attacker build, a Timid Nature and moves like Draco Meteor and Flamethrower are recommended.