Poliwhirl is a Water-type Pokemon in Pokemon GO, originally from the Kanto region (#61, Generation 1). With a max CP of 1,604 and base stats of 130/123/163 (Atk/Def/Sta), Poliwhirl has a total stat product of 416.
Poliwhirl is weak to Electric, Grass-type moves. It resists Fire, Ice, Steel, Water-type attacks. Poliwhirl is a 3.0 km buddy Pokemon.
Stats
Type Chart
Moves
Fast Moves
Charged Moves
Best Moveset Analysis
Among fast moves, the highest DPS option is Bubble (10 DPS), while Bubble generates energy the fastest (12 EPS). Note that Scald is an Elite TM move and cannot be obtained through regular TMs.
Raid Guide
Poliwhirl as Raid Boss
Not Currently in RaidsPoliwhirl is not currently available as a raid boss. When Poliwhirl returns to raids, here are the best counters to defeat it. A 100% IV Poliwhirl from raids would have 811 CP at level 20, or 1013 CP at level 25 with weather boost.
Best Counters to Beat Poliwhirl
Poliwhirl is weak to Electric, Grass-type moves, so counters with these move types will deal the most damage.
How to Get Poliwhirl
Poliwhirl evolves from Poliwag using 25 Candy.
A Shadow version of Poliwhirl is available from Team GO Rocket. Shadow Poliwhirl knows Frustration as its charged move, which can be removed with a Charged TM. Purifying costs 3,000 Stardust and 3 Candy, and the purified form learns Return. Walking Poliwhirl as your buddy earns 1 candy every 3.0 km.
Poliwhirl Catch CP
These are the possible CP values when encountering Poliwhirl in different scenarios. The range shows minimum (lowest IV floor) to maximum (100% perfect IV).
A 100% IV Poliwhirl from raids or eggs will show 811 CP at level 20. If you see this number, don't hesitate — it's a perfect catch!
Trainer Tips
Poliwhirl is a Water-type Pokemon with a stat total of 416. With its bulk spread of 123 Defense and 163 Stamina, Poliwhirl has solid survivability in battles.
Watch out for Electric, Grass-type moves when using Poliwhirl. These types deal super effective damage that can cut into Poliwhirl's performance.
Poliwhirl's moves get a damage boost in Rainy weather. Take advantage of weather conditions to maximize your DPS in raids and gym battles.
Unlocking a second charged move costs 50,000 Stardust and 50 Candy. With 4 charged moves available, a second move gives Poliwhirl much better coverage in PvP battles.
Should I Invest in Poliwhirl?
Power-Up Costs
Verdict
Collector's Pick
Poliwhirl is a Water-type Pokemon with base stats of 130/123/163 (Atk/Def/Sta) and a max CP of 1,604. While it doesn't currently rank among the top raid attackers or PvP contenders, every Pokemon has its place in a trainer's collection. Poliwhirl may shine during specific events, in limited-format cups, or when new moves are added in future updates. For now, hold onto a good IV specimen but save your Stardust and Candy for more impactful investments unless you're a dedicated fan of this Pokemon.
Shadow vs Regular: Shadow Poliwhirl deals 20% more damage but takes ~20% more. For raids, Shadow is generally the better investment. For PvP, evaluate matchups carefully — the bulk loss can be significant.