How Long to Get Fish Barrel in OSRS?

For Old School RuneScape (OSRS) players, unlocking the Fish Barrel is a major step in enhancing the efficiency of your AFK fishing. This untradeable item, which is part of the Tempoross reward pool, allows you to store raw fish and cut down on the amount of bank trips necessary while training.

One of the most common questions I see asked by players is, “How long does it really take to get the Fish Barrel?” In this elaborate guide, I’ll explain the drop mechanics, probabilities, ways to optimize your chances as well as actual player data and the FAQ’s to paint an accurate picture of what you can expect.

What Is the Fish Barrel in OSRS?

The Fish Barrel is an untradeable storage item that lets you carry 28 additional raw fish. It functions much like a secondary inventory and is particularly useful for players engaged in high-volume fishing methods like Karambwan, Sharks, or Monkfish.
You can’t just buy it. The Fish Barrel is only obtainable as a random drop from the Tempoross reward pool, making it an item that requires time and dedication.

Where and How Do You Get It?

To get the Fish Barrel, you need to defeat Tempoross, the Fishing Skill Boss located on the Spirit Angler’s Dock. Tempoross is designed for both solo and group play and is accessible to anyone with level 35 Fishing.
Every time you defeat Tempoross, you earn reward permits based on your performance during the fight. These permits are used to fish at the reward pool, which gives you various loot including the Fish Barrel.

• Fish Barrel Drop Rate: 1 in 400 per reward roll
• Permits per run: Average players earn between 6–10 permits
• Kills per hour: Approximately 6–8 kills in solo play
• Avg. permits/hour: ~60–80, depending on efficiency

How Long Does It Actually Take?

Theoretical Average:

Since the Fish Barrel has a 1/400 chance per reward roll, most players should statistically get it within 400–500 permit uses.
• At 8 kills per hour and 10 permits per kill, that’s about 50 kills or 6–7 hours of gameplay.
• For average efficiency (6 permits per run), expect closer to 10+ hours.

Real Player Experiences (From Reddit & Forums):

1. “Got mine after 2,344 KC” this is an extreme outlier, but highlights RNG’s harsh reality.
2. “157 kills and 671 permits” close to the expected average.
3. “Took me 15 KC on Ironman, 900 on main” shows how variable it can be.
4. “Took around 1 hour with high permit efficiency” possible with optimized solo runs.
   These testimonials prove that while the drop rate is fixed, your experience will vary based on luck and efficiency.

Benefits of the Fish Barrel

AFK Fishing Efficiency: Less time banking, more time catching fish.

• Ideal for Ironman accounts where convenience and time saving is crucial.
• Stacks well with Fish Sack: Combine both to make it equipable in the cape slot.
• Training Consistency: Keeps your fishing sessions smoother and longer.
  Example Use Case: Karambwan Fishing
  Using the Fish Barrel, players can double their inventory size, meaning fewer trips to the bank and more XP gained per hour.

Tips to Get the Fish Barrel Faster

Maximize Permits Per Run

• Use efficient techniques like the “Firefighter” Tempoross method.
• Aim for 8–10 permits per game each permit equals one reward roll.

Go Solo When Possible
• Solo runs may be slower but often reward more permits due to individual performance.
• Avoid public worlds with many players if aiming for permit maximization.

Upgrade Your Equipment
• Use Dragon Harpoon or Crystal Harpoon for faster catches.
• Equip Angler’s Outfit for slight XP bonuses and cosmetic flex

Stay Consistent
• Even if RNG doesn’t favor you early, consistent grinding improves your odds.
• Set small session goals: e.g., “50 kills a week” rather than aiming for the barrel in one go.

Drop Mechanics Explained

The reward pool system is similar to Barrows or Wintertodt each permit acts as a chance roll. But unlike combat-based bosses, Tempoross rewards you for skill-based performance.
• Loot is dependent on your Fishing level, not Combat.
• The Fish Barrel is account bound can’t be sold or traded.
• Other possible rewards: Tackle Box, Soaked Pages, Spirit Flakes, Tome of Water.

Should You Grind for It?

Absolutely especially if you’re aiming for 99 Fishing or plan to fish for high-profit items like Karambwans or Raw Sharks.
Pros:
• Saves time in the long run
• Boosts XP/hr and GP/hr
• Great utility item for Ironmen
Cons:
• RNG dependent
• Time consuming if unlucky
• Not necessary for early-game fishing
If you’re focused on efficiency, AFK gains, or Ironman gameplay, it’s worth grinding.

Comparison: Fish Barrel vs. Tackle Box

Read also: General Skill Game Keywords: Ultimate Guide to Skill Games

Conclusion

The Fish Barrel is a game changing item for serious fishers in OSRS. While the drop rate of 1 in 400 can test your patience, the long term benefits in AFK efficiency, XP/hour, and inventory management are undeniable. Whether you’re a casual skiller or an Ironman grinding every resource, adding the Fish Barrel to your inventory is a worthy investment.

Stick to high efficiency methods, aim for more permits per Tempoross run, and with some persistence (and luck), you’ll eventually pull that barrel from the depths.

FAQs

What is the drop rate of Fish Barrel in OSRS?
The drop rate is 1 in 400 per reward permit used at the Tempoross reward pool.

How long does it take to get the Fish Barrel?
On average, it takes about 400–500 permits, translating to 6–10 hours of gameplay depending on efficiency.

Can you wear the Fish Barrel?
Not directly, but when combined with the Fish Sack, it becomes wearable in the cape slot.

What level do you need to fight Tempoross?
You need at least 35 Fishing to participate in Tempoross encounters.

Is the Fish Barrel worth it for Ironman?
Yes, it significantly improves inventory space during fishing and is especially valuable for AFK methods.