Are Swordfish or Bass Better for Fishing Osrs

Wondering whether swordfish or bass is the smarter choice for OSRS fishing? Swordfish give higher XP per catch and better profit, but bass are easier and faster for low‑level players. This guide breaks down the stats, costs, and best strategies so you can decide which fish fits your goals.

Key Takeaways

• XP per hour: Swordfish outpace bass at higher levels, delivering up to 80k+ XP/hr.
• Profitability: Swordfish sell for more on the Grand Exchange, but require higher gear and stamina.
• Access requirements: Bass can be caught from level 35, while swordfish need level 76 and a small fishing boat.
• Gear considerations: A harpoon and fishing rod are essential for swordfish; a small net works for bass.
• Training speed: Beginners should start with bass to build stamina before moving to swordfish.
• Location tips: Use the Karamja fishing spots for bass and the Port Khazard dock for swordfish.
• Alternative options: If you’re stuck, try tuna or shark for a middle ground.

Introduction: The OSRS Fishing Dilemma

Old School RuneScape (OSRS) offers a ton of ways to level up your fishing skill, but two fish keep popping up in player discussions: swordfish and bass. Both are popular, both are profitable, and both have their own quirks. If you’ve ever asked yourself “are swordfish or bass better for fishing OSRS?” you’re not alone. This article walks you through everything you need to know—XP rates, profit margins, gear, and the best spots—so you can pick the right fish for your playstyle.

We’ll keep the tone friendly, like we’re chatting over a virtual campfire. Short sentences, simple words, and plenty of examples make it easy to follow, even if you’re new to OSRS fishing.

1. Understanding the Basics: Levels, Gear, and Locations

1.1 Level Requirements

Bass can be caught starting at level 35 Fishing with a small fishing net. Swordfish, on the other hand, need a minimum of 76 Fishing and a harpoon. This difference alone can determine which fish is accessible to you right now.

Visual guide about Are Swordfish or Bass Better for Fishing Osrs

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1.2 Gear You’ll Need

• Bass: Small fishing net (or bait for improved rates).
• Swordfish: Harpoon, small fishing boat (or a canoe in the Karamja fishing guild).

Both fish benefit from the right fishing line—though in OSRS it’s more about having the correct tool than line type.

1.3 Where to Fish

For bass, head to the Karamja fishing spot near Musa Point or the fishing guild in Falador. Swordfish are best caught at the Port Khazard dock or the Fishing Guild’s small boat area. Knowing the exact tile coordinates can shave minutes off your travel time.

2. XP Rates: How Fast Do You Level?

2.1 Bass XP per Catch

A single bass gives you 100 XP. With a decent net and a 70% catch rate, you can expect around 40–45 catches per minute, translating to roughly 70k–80k XP per hour at level 35–50.

Visual guide about Are Swordfish or Bass Better for Fishing Osrs

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2.2 Swordfish XP per Catch

Swordfish award 210 XP** per catch**. The harpoon’s success rate is higher (around 80% at level 76+), and you can pull in 30–35 fish per minute. This means you’re looking at 90k–110k XP per hour** once you’re fully geared**.

2.3 Comparing the Numbers

If you’re purely after XP, swordfish win after you hit level 76. Below that, bass is faster because you can start earlier and you don’t need a boat. For many players, the sweet spot is to train bass until level 70, then switch to swordfish for the final push.

3. Profitability: Which Fish Pays More?

3.1 Market Prices

Current Grand Exchange (GE) prices (as of 2026) are:

Visual guide about Are Swordfish or Bass Better for Fishing Osrs

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• Bass: 120 GP each.
• Swordfish: 300 GP each.

These values fluctuate, but swordfish consistently fetch more than double the price of bass.

3.2 Cost of Supplies

Bass require only a small net (≈5k GP) and occasional bait (≈50 GP per 100). Swordfish need a harpoon (≈30k GP) and a boat ticket (≈5k GP). After the initial investment, the ongoing cost for swordfish is minimal.

3.3 Net Profit per Hour

Assuming you catch 30 swordfish per minute, that’s 1,800 swordfish per hour → 540k GP. Subtracting the tiny cost of occasional boat tickets, you’re still netting >500k GP/hr.

Bass, at 45 catches per minute, yields 2,700 bass per hour → 324k GP. After netting out bait cost, you’re around 300k GP/hr.

3.4 Bottom Line

For profit, swordfish dominate, but you need the level and gear to access them. Bass is still a solid early‑mid game money maker.

4. Training Strategies: From Beginner to Pro

4.1 Starting Out with Bass

1. Gear up with a small net (buy from the fishing shop in Port Sarim).
2. Head to Karamja’s Musa Point fishing spot.
3. Use a stamina potion to keep your run energy high—this reduces downtime.

4.2 Transitioning to Swordfish

When you hit level 70, start buying a harpoon and a small boat ticket. Practice at the Port Khazard dock during off‑peak hours to avoid player congestion.

4.3 Maximizing XP with Bonus XP Items

Use a Fishing cape or Angler’s outfit for a 2.5% XP boost. Combine this with a Stamina potion** (1+ hour)** to keep moving between spots without walking.

4.4 Multi‑Tasking: Skillcapes and Questing

If you’re working toward the Fishing skillcape, aim for 99 Fishing. Swordfish will get you there faster, but you can also mix in shark or tuna for variety and to keep your bank space tidy.

5. Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

5.1 Forgetting to Restock Gear

Running out of harpoons or nets mid‑run wastes time. Keep a small stash in your bank and withdraw a fresh set before each session.

5.2 Ignoring Stamina Management

Walking back to the dock without a stamina potion can cut your hourly XP in half. Keep a potion in your inventory or use the appropriate fishing line for faster movement.

5.3 Over‑Banking

Banking every 5 minutes slows you down. Use a bank chest near the fishing spot (like the one at the Port Khazard dock) to deposit in bulk every 20–30 minutes.

6. Which Should You Choose? A Quick Decision Guide

Answer the following questions to decide:

• What is your current Fishing level? If under 70, start with bass.
• Do you have a harpoon and boat ticket? If not, bass is the safe bet.
• Is profit or XP your main goal? Profit → swordfish; XP → swordfish after level 76, otherwise bass.
• Do you mind traveling to a dock? If you prefer close‑by spots, bass at Karamja is easier.

Most players end up using a hybrid approach: bass for early levels, then swordfish for the final push to 99. This way you get the best of both worlds—steady XP and solid profit.

Conclusion: The Verdict on “Are Swordfish or Bass Better for Fishing OSRS?”

In short, swordfish are better for high‑level players who want fast XP and higher profit, while bass are ideal for beginners and mid‑level fishers who need an easy, low‑cost training method. Your personal goals, current level, and available gear will dictate the best choice. Keep an eye on GE prices, stock up on the right tools, and you’ll be reeling in success either way.

Now grab your harpoon or net, head to the nearest dock, and enjoy the splash of progress!

Frequently Asked Questions

Are swordfish or bass more profitable in OSRS?

Swordfish generally sell for more on the Grand Exchange, making them more profitable once you have the required level and gear.

Can I catch swordfish without a boat?

No. Swordfish require a small fishing boat or canoe, which you can access at ports like Port Khazard.

Do I need a fishing cape to catch bass?

No, a fishing cape isn’t required for bass, but it does give a small XP boost if you have it.

How fast can I reach level 99 Fishing with swordfish?

At optimal XP rates (90k‑110k XP/hr), you can reach 99 Fishing in roughly 30‑35 hours of focused swordfish training.

Is stamina important for fishing bass?

Yes, using stamina potions reduces the time spent walking between spots and can increase your overall XP per hour.

What’s the best alternative if I can’t catch swordfish yet?

Consider training with tuna or shark—they offer higher XP than bass and require lower levels than swordfish.