For ordinary Fishing training in Old School RuneScape, fly fishing salmon is generally faster XP training than catching lobsters. A lobster gives more Fishing XP per catch—90 versus salmon’s 70—but the larger per-catch reward does not make up for the slower catches. Salmon requires level 30 Fishing; lobster fishing requires level 40.
How the two methods compare
| Method | Fishing level and requirements | Equipment | Fishing XP per catch | Best fit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ordinary salmon fly fishing | Level 30 Fishing | Fly-fishing rod and feathers | 70 | Early power training and faster ordinary XP gains |
| Lobster cage fishing | Level 40 Fishing | Lobster pot | 90 | Players who want lobster catches or prefer this method, rather than maximizing XP speed |
| Leaping salmon (Barbarian Fishing) | Level 58 Fishing, relevant Barbarian Training, and level 30 Strength and Agility | Barbarian rod and suitable bait | Rates vary by fish and training method | A separate, higher-requirement method that also trains Strength and Agility |
The level requirements, tools, and catch XP are listed in the OSRS Wiki’s Fishing training and Lobster guidance.
As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
Why salmon can be faster despite lower XP per fish
XP per catch is only one part of XP per hour. The number of successful catches, time spent waiting or moving, and whether you drop or bank fish all affect the final rate. Salmon fly fishing is commonly recommended as an early power-training route; lobster fishing gives more XP for each lobster but is generally slower for XP-focused training. The OSRS Wiki’s Salmon and training guidance support that qualitative comparison.
Windows Errors? Fix Them Before They Spread
Repair common Windows errors and clear accumulated junk for a smoother, more stable PC - no reinstall needed.Free scan · no reinstallOutdated Drivers Are Slowing You Down
One free scan finds every outdated or missing driver and matches the right update for your exact hardware.Free scan · exact hardware matchThere is no directly comparable, current lobster-versus-salmon hourly-rate table here with matching assumptions, so a universal hourly ratio would be misleading. Choose based on your goal: fly fish salmon when ordinary Fishing XP is the priority; fish lobsters when you want the catches or prefer the method.
#1 Best Overall
- UGLY STIK 7’ COMPLETE SALTWATER SPINNING COMBO: Includes 9 pieces of Saltwater tackle to catch multiple Saltwater Species: 20lb. mono double hook bottom rig (2), 3oz. pyramid sinker (2) and 3/0 circle hooks (5).
- UGLY TECH CONSTRUCTION: Telescopic - 2-piece, Ugly Tech construction combines graphite and fiberglass, for a strong, yet sensitive rod. Telescoping. Includes 7 year rod warranty. Gear ratio of 5.1:1 provides smooth operation and mechanical advantage.
- SIZE 50 SPINNING REEL: 1 ball bearing system for smooth operation. Features 6 Stainless Steel guides to provide durability and eliminate insert pop-outs during rough treatment. Pre-spooled with 14lb line.
- FRONT DRAG: Graphite spinning reel with ball bearing; Multi-Stop system helps keep fighting the fish on your terms. EVA handle balances durability and comfort. Right/Left handle position.
- 12-25LB LINE RATING, MEDIUM HEAVY POWER: Ugly Stik Clear Tip delivers strength where you need it. Mono Capacity yd/lb: 280/12 215/14 195/17 (m/mm: 255/0.33 195/0.36 180/.038).
What changes your actual XP per hour
- Fishing level: catches and rates change as your level rises.
- Dropping or banking: dropping fish avoids banking trips but requires attention; banking adds travel and time.
- AFK versus active play: less frequent interaction can reduce realized rates compared with focused training.
- Tick manipulation: can increase rates, but demands more clicks and attention.
- Location and execution: movement, interruptions, and familiarity with the method affect results.
The OSRS Wiki’s Fishing training guide gives community estimates for fly fishing that vary by level and execution. It reports AFK rates from about 13,000 XP per hour at level 20 to about 50,000 at level 99, and 3-tick rates from about 23,000 at level 20 to about 93,000 at level 99. These are guide estimates, not guaranteed results or official Jagex benchmarks, and they are not a matched comparison with lobster rates.
When leaping salmon means something different
“Salmon” can also refer to leaping salmon caught through Barbarian Fishing. This is not the same as ordinary fly fishing: it is a members-oriented route that becomes available at level 58 Fishing after the relevant Barbarian Training, and requires level 30 Strength and Agility for leaping salmon. It awards some Strength and Agility XP alongside Fishing XP. Tick manipulation can substantially raise rates, with the trade-off of more attention and clicks. See the OSRS Wiki’s Barbarian Fishing guidance for this separate method.
Quick Recap
Best Value
Rank #4
- Experience unmatched sensitivity and control with the KingKatch Ultralight Fishing Rod. Crafted from premium carbon fiber and graphite blank, this rod offers ultralight power and fast action, making it perfect for trout, panfish, bass, or finesse freshwater fishing. The sleek black design with red triangle handle ensures both style and comfort for long fishing sessions.
- Equipped with premium ceramic line guides, this rod ensures friction-free casting and precise line control. Perfect for spinning and casting techniques, these corrosion-resistant guides enhance performance for all freshwater species while maintaining a lightweight design for effortless handling.
- The ergonomic split-grip handle combines black and red triangle design for superior comfort, control, and anti-slip performance. Fish all day without fatigue and maintain perfect balance during powerful hook sets. Ideal for anglers seeking both functionality and striking aesthetics.
- Designed for outdoor enthusiasts, the rod includes a built-in compass and emergency whistle, making it perfect for lakes, rivers, and remote fishing spots. Easily stay oriented and signal for help if needed, giving you confidence and safety during any fishing adventure.
- KingKatch Ultralight Fishing Rods are ideal for holiday gifts or outdoor enthusiasts. The 2-piece portable design (5’6”, 6’0”, 6’6”) fits easily in backpacks or car trunks. Sleek black with red accents, ultralight carbon graphite blank, and ceramic guides make it a premium gift choice for any angler seeking performance and style.
Rank #3
- ALL-DAY COMFORT: Zebco’s Z-Cast spinning rod extends from 17-inches to 5-foot 6-inches for easy on-the-go storage and travel. The telescopic fishing pole features a balanced EVA rod handle that reduces grip-fatigue so you can fish comfortably for longer
- POWERFUL ROD: Constructed with Zebco’s Z-Glass - a durable and flexible fiberglass, and provides a medium power with the ability to cast longer distances while maintaining quality hook-setting power
- LIGHTWEIGHT PRECISION: The spinning fishing rod is engineered with a Twist-Lock reel seat and 3 + Tip durable shock-ring guides that will hold up against even the toughest fish
- VERSATILE USE: This versatile rod pairs well with 8-12 pound line weights and 1/4-3/8 ounce lure weights making it ideal for catching light species such as panfish and trout. You are ready to haul in your prized catch every time with your Z-Cast rod
- TRUSTED: Since 1949, Zebco has been inviting people to explore the outdoors. Zebco products are warranted for a period of (1) year from date of original retail purchase against defects in workmanship and/or materials
Rank #2
- 30 Ton Graphite Telescopic Fishing Rod: All graphite rod reduces by 20% physical weight to others made from a mix of carbon and fiberglass, which is not only more responsive, but also doesn't reduce firmness. The ceramic guide ring adopts weaving + resin technology, which can prevent the guide ring from falling off and prolong the service life
- Upgraded Carbon Fiber Drag Washers: Regarding the fishing reel, compared to most people using wool felt washers, we upgraded to 3 carbon washers, using one-way no-gap stainless steel bearings and all-metal rocker arms. The powerful drag system offers incredible stopping power up to 34.3 lbs/15.6kg without sacrificing smoothness. At the same time, we have thickened the throwing ring to enhance the stability of the fishing reel. Whether you are in freshwater or saltwater, you can use this reel
- Upgraded Fish Pliers: Side-mounted milling cutters can easily cut fishing line, sharp and precise cutters allow you to cut off labels easily without any hindrance. Ergonomic design of the handle, non-slip comfortable, reduce your hand fatigue when using
- Corrosion-Resistant Fish Lip Gripper: Fish lip gripper device can be used with one finger, easy to operate, the end of the rope to prevent falling. Corrosion-resistant materials are suitable for both saltwater and freshwater use
- Complete Fishing Kit with Portable Carrier Bag: This 2 pack fishing rod and reel combo includes rod, reel, line, and lures in a convenient carrier bag, providing you with one-stop equipment for your fishing trip and allowing you to set off for fishing at any time
Which should you choose?
- Choose ordinary salmon fly fishing if you want faster, straightforward Fishing XP before moving to later training options.
- Choose lobster fishing if catching lobsters is part of your goal; do not assume the higher XP per catch means higher XP per hour.
- Consider Barbarian leaping salmon if you meet its higher requirements and also value Strength and Agility XP, or are willing to use a more active method.
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
Quick wins for a faster PC:
Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problemsFix Now →Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitchesFind Drivers →Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errorsFree Scan →
