To progress in The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time and rescue Princess Ruto, players must first offer something to Jabu-Jabu. The game offers subtle hints, but the most straightforward method involves obtaining a specific item from Zora Domain.
Acquiring the Offering
The key to appeasing Jabu-Jabu is a fish, which can be obtained from a small pond located at the base of the waterfall in Zora Domain. An individual there is attempting to catch fish and suggests that a successful catch would serve as an offering for the great beast. To collect a fish, players will need an empty bottle. Once acquired, Link can scoop up a fish by pressing the ZR button. While a fish can be purchased for 30 rupees at the Zora Domain store, it is unnecessary.
It is important to note that only fish caught in Zora Domain are accepted as offerings. Fish from Lake Hylia will not suffice.
Jabu-Jabu's Belly Dungeon
With the fish secured in a bottle, players should proceed to Zora's Fountain, located behind King Zora. Approaching Jabu-Jabu and equipping the fish bottle as an item, Link can then press ZR in front of a small, shell-shaped indentation. This action initiates a cutscene, after which players will enter Jabu-Jabu's Belly dungeon. Within this dungeon, Link will acquire the boomerang and encounter a new ally.
Those seeking to 100% complete The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time can refer to various guides detailing the locations of every Piece of Heart, Gold Skulltula token, and Magic Bean planting spot. Additionally, walkthroughs are available for all dungeons, from the Great Deku Tree to Ganondorf's Castle.