Ultimate Fishing Guide for OSRS: Level Up Fast in 2025

If you’ve ever stood on the shores of Lumbridge, rod in hand, wondering how to turn your measly level 1 Fishing skill into a cape-worthy triumph, you’re in the right place. Fishing in Old School RuneScape (OSRS) is more than just clicking a spot and waiting—it’s a grind that rewards patience, strategy, and a bit of know-how. Whether you’re a newbie trying to catch your first shrimp or a seasoned player aiming for that coveted 99, this fishing guide for OSRS will walk you through everything you need to know to level up fast, make some gold, and maybe even enjoy the serene vibes of Gielinor’s waters.

Fishing isn’t just about skilling; it’s about unlocking quests, gathering resources for Cooking, and even snagging some rare loot. But let’s be real—the grind can feel overwhelming without a plan. That’s where this guide comes in. From the best fishing spots to the fastest XP methods, I’ll share practical tips, personal insights, and even a few mistakes I’ve made along the way (like accidentally dropping my entire stack of lobsters into the sea). Let’s dive in!

Why Fishing in OSRS Matters

Fishing in OSRS is an informational goldmine for players who want to level up efficiently while gathering resources. It’s a core gathering skill that ties into Cooking, quests like Fishing Contest or Tai Bwo Wannai Trio, and even money-making methods. Plus, it’s one of the most AFK (away-from-keyboard) skills, perfect for players in the USA, UK, or Australia who want to multitask—whether you’re catching up on Netflix or sipping a flat white.

But why should you care about fishing? Here’s the deal:

XP Gains: Fishing offers steady XP, with methods like Barbarian Fishing or Tempoross pushing you toward 99 faster than you’d expect.
Money-Making: From lobsters to anglerfish, fish are a reliable income source for mid- and high-level players.
Quest Requirements: Many quests, like Swan Song, require specific Fishing levels.
Relaxed Gameplay: Fishing is chill, letting you enjoy OSRS’s retro vibes while skilling.

Ready to cast your net? Let’s break down the essentials.

Getting Started: Fishing Basics in OSRS

Before we get to the juicy XP methods, let’s cover the basics for beginners. Fishing in OSRS involves using specific tools (like nets, rods, or harpoons) to catch fish at designated fishing spots. Each fish grants XP, and the higher your Fishing level, the more advanced fish and methods you unlock.

What You Need to Start Fishing

Tools: Start with a small fishing net (available at most general stores or the Grand Exchange).
Bait: Some methods require bait like feathers or fishing bait.
Inventory Space: Clear your inventory to hold those fish (or bank them if you’re not cooking).
Patience: Fishing is a grind, but it’s rewarding!

For a detailed list of tools and fish, check out the official OSRS Fishing page.

Early Levels (1–20): Shrimp and Sardines

When you’re starting at level 1, head to Draynor Village or Lumbridge. These spots are beginner-friendly and close to banks. Use a small fishing net to catch shrimp (level 1) and sardines (level 5). You’ll need fishing bait for sardines, which you can buy at the Grand Exchange or fish shops.

Pro Tip: If you’re in Australia and playing late at night, these spots are perfect for a low-effort grind while you unwind. Expect around 10,000–15,000 XP per hour, depending on your focus.

Leveling Up: The Fastest Fishing Methods

Now that you’ve got the basics, let’s talk about leveling up efficiently. The fishing guide for OSRS wouldn’t be complete without a roadmap to 99. Here’s a breakdown of the best methods for each level range.

Levels 20–40: Trout and Salmon

Head to Barbarian Village or Shilo Village with a fly fishing rod and feathers (cheap at the Grand Exchange). You’ll catch trout (level 20) and salmon (level 30), which offer solid XP—around 25,000–30,000 XP per hour. If you’re also training Cooking, cook these fish for a double skill boost.

Personal Insight: I remember spending hours in Shilo Village, chatting with clanmates while fly fishing. It’s relaxing, and the bank is nearby, making it ideal for UK players who want to grind during lunch breaks.

Levels 40–62: Lobsters and Beyond

At level 40, you can start catching lobsters with a lobster pot in places like Catherby or the Fishing Guild (unlocked at level 68). Lobsters are a great balance of XP (30,000–40,000 per hour) and profit, especially for F2P players. If you’re a member, consider Barbarian Fishing at Otto’s Grotto (requires Tai Bwo Wannai Trio quest). This method lets you catch leaping trout, salmon, and sturgeon, offering up to 40,000 XP per hour while also training Strength or Agility.

Tip for USA Players: If you’re on the West Coast and playing in the evening, Catherby’s chill beach vibes make lobstering a perfect way to wind down.

Levels 62–82: Monkfish and Tempoross

Once you hit level 62, monkfish in Piscatoris Fishing Colony (requires Swan Song) are a game-changer. They offer 40,000–50,000 XP per hour and decent profit. But if you want faster XP and a fun minigame, try Tempoross at level 35 (though it shines at higher levels). Tempoross is a boss fight that feels like a group fishing adventure, rewarding up to 60,000 XP per hour at higher levels.

Anecdote: My first Tempoross run was a disaster—I kept forgetting to douse the fires! But once you get the rhythm, it’s one of the most engaging ways to train Fishing.

Levels 82–99: Anglerfish and Minnows

For the final stretch, anglerfish (level 82) in Port Piscarilius are the go-to for profit (up to 500k GP per hour) and decent XP (40,000–50,000 per hour). You’ll need a fishing rod and sandworms. Alternatively, minnows in the Fishing Guild (level 82) are the fastest XP method, offering up to 70,000 XP per hour if you’re focused. Minnows can also be traded for sharks, making them a solid money-maker.

Pro Tip: Use the dragon harpoon (requires 61 Hunter) for a 20% faster catch rate. It’s a game-changer for those long grinds.

Best Fishing Spots in OSRS

Choosing the right spot can make or break your fishing experience. Here’s a quick table optimized for featured snippets:

Location	Fish	Level Required	XP/Hour	Notes
Draynor Village	Shrimp, Sardines	1–20	10k–15k	Beginner-friendly, close to bank
Barbarian Village	Trout, Salmon	20–40	25k–30k	Great for F2P, near Lumbridge
Catherby	Lobsters, Tuna, Swordfish	40–68	30k–40k	Scenic, bank nearby
Piscatoris	Monkfish	62	40k–50k	Profitable, requires Swan Song
Fishing Guild	Minnows, Sharks	68–82	50k–70k	Best for high-level XP
Port Piscarilius	Anglerfish	82	40k–50k	High profit, requires sandworms

For more details on locations, visit the OSRS Fishing Wiki.

Advanced Tips for Fishing Mastery

Want to take your fishing game to the next level? Here are some advanced strategies to maximize efficiency:

Use the Fishing Outfit: The Angler’s Outfit from Tempoross boosts XP by up to 2.5%. It’s a grind to get, but worth it for serious fishers.
Boost with Admiral Pie: Need a temporary level boost for anglerfish or monkfish? Eat an Admiral Pie for a +5 Fishing boost.
Bank or Drop?: If you’re after XP, drop fish to save time. If you’re after profit, bank high-value fish like sharks or anglerfish.
Tempoross Strategy: Focus on dousing fires and loading cannons to maximize reward points. Team up with friends for faster clears.
Quest for Perks: Complete Fishing Contest and Heroes’ Quest to unlock better spots and tools.

Relatable Tip: I once forgot to equip my Angler’s Outfit for a 10-hour grind—don’t make my mistake! Double-check your gear before starting.

Money-Making with Fishing

Fishing isn’t just about XP; it’s a solid way to stack gold. Here’s how to turn your catches into cash:

Lobsters (F2P): Sell at 200–250 GP each. Great for low-level players.
Monkfish: Fetch 400–500 GP each, ideal for mid-levels.
Anglerfish: Sell for 1,500–2,000 GP each, perfect for high-level profit.
Sharks/Minnows: Minnows can be traded for noted sharks, which sell for 800–1,000 GP each.

For Aussies: If you’re playing during peak server times (evenings in the USA), the Grand Exchange prices are more stable, so sell then for max profit.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even seasoned players mess up sometimes. Here are pitfalls to dodge:

Overcrowded Spots: Avoid world-hopping in busy areas like Catherby during peak hours.
Forgetting Tools: Always check your inventory for rods, bait, or nets.
Ignoring Quests: Don’t skip Swan Song or Tai Bwo Wannai Trio—they unlock key fishing methods.
Burnout: Take breaks! Fishing is AFK, but staring at the screen for hours can fry your brain.

FAQ: Fishing Guide for OSRS

What’s the fastest way to level Fishing in OSRS?

Barbarian Fishing (levels 48–99) and minnows (levels 82–99) are the fastest, offering up to 70,000 XP per hour. Tempoross is also great for 35–99 with up to 60,000 XP per hour.

Can you make money fishing in OSRS?

Yes! Lobsters, monkfish, and anglerfish are profitable, with anglerfish yielding up to 500k GP per hour at high levels.

What’s the best fishing spot for beginners?

Draynor Village is ideal for levels 1–20, with shrimp and sardines. It’s close to a bank and easy to access.

Do I need membership to fish in OSRS?

No, but membership unlocks better spots (like Piscatoris) and methods (like Barbarian Fishing). F2P players can still fish lobsters in Catherby.

How do I get the Angler’s Outfit?

Complete Tempoross runs to earn reward points, then trade them for the Angler’s Outfit. It takes about 10–15 runs for the full set.

Final Thoughts

Fishing in OSRS is a journey—sometimes a peaceful one, sometimes a grindy one. Whether you’re casting nets in Draynor or battling Tempoross with a crew, this fishing guide for OSRS has you covered with the best spots, methods, and tips to hit 99 and make some gold along the way. So grab your rod, stock up on bait, and dive into Gielinor’s waters. What’s your favorite fishing spot or method? Drop a comment below and let’s chat!

For more OSRS tips, check out our Cooking Guide to pair with your fishing haul!