Training Hunter in Old School RuneScape has traditionally been one of the more click-intensive and attention-heavy skills. However, over time, players have discovered methods that significantly reduce the need for constant interaction. While Hunter will never be completely AFK, there are several techniques that allow you to train it with minimal effort while still gaining solid experience.

If you’re looking to level Hunter without burning out, here are the four best AFK-friendly methods currently available.

1. Maniacal Monkeys (Kruk’s Dungeon)

Maniacal Monkeys are widely considered the most AFK Hunter training method in the game. Unlocked after completing the Monkey Madness II questline, this method allows you to passively catch monkeys using banana traps.

The core mechanic is simple: you place a stack of bananas on the ground, and the monkeys will automatically come to investigate. When they do, they get caught without requiring constant trap resetting. This removes the repetitive clicking that defines most Hunter training.

What makes this method so appealing is how hands-off it feels. Once your setup is in place, you only need to occasionally check your traps and reset your inventory. Compared to traditional methods like chinchompas, the click intensity is dramatically reduced.

Experience rates are respectable, typically ranging between 40,000 to 70,000 XP per hour depending on efficiency. While it’s not the fastest method in the game, the low effort more than makes up for it.

This method is ideal for players who want to train Hunter while multitasking, such as watching videos or playing another account.

2. Herbiboar Tracking

Tracking Herbiboars on Fossil Island offers a relaxed and semi-AFK way to train Hunter while also gaining valuable Herblore materials. Unlike traditional Hunter methods, this one involves following a trail rather than managing traps.

You begin by searching for tracks and following them across the area. While this does involve clicking, the pace is slow and predictable, allowing for a much more laid-back experience.

The method becomes especially AFK-friendly once you get into a rhythm. You can click a trail, wait a few seconds, then move to the next one. There’s no need for rapid inputs or constant attention.

Experience rates typically fall between 80,000 and 120,000 XP per hour at higher levels, making it both efficient and relaxed. On top of that, the herbs you receive provide additional value, making this method profitable over time.

Herbiboar is perfect for players who want a balance between efficiency and low effort without needing to constantly reset traps.

3. Birdhouse Runs

Birdhouse runs are one of the most passive Hunter training methods in the game. While not traditionally considered “training” in the active sense, they provide excellent experience for very little time investment.

The idea is simple: you place birdhouses on Fossil Island, fill them with seeds, and then leave. After about 50 minutes, you return to collect the rewards and reset the birdhouses.

Each run takes only a couple of minutes, but the experience adds up quickly over time. At higher levels, a single run can grant a significant chunk of Hunter XP, making this one of the most efficient low-effort methods available.

What makes birdhouse runs truly AFK is that you don’t need to stay in one place or actively train. You can log out, do other activities, or focus on completely different content between runs.

Additionally, bird nests obtained from birdhouses can be quite valuable, providing a steady source of passive income.

This method is ideal for players who prefer long-term, low-effort progression rather than grinding in one session.

4. Drift Net Fishing (Hunter Hybrid Method)

Drift net fishing is a unique method that trains both Hunter and Fishing simultaneously. While it’s more interactive than the other options on this list, it still offers a relatively relaxed experience compared to traditional Hunter training.

In this activity, you set up drift nets underwater and then scare fish into them. Once the nets are full, you collect your catch and reset the nets.

The reason this method makes the list is because of its rhythm. Once you understand the loop, it becomes very predictable and less demanding. You’re not constantly reacting or resetting traps at high speed, which makes it feel more relaxed over time.

Experience rates can be quite high, often exceeding 100,000 Hunter XP per hour alongside strong Fishing experience. This makes it one of the best options for players who want efficient training without intense focus.

While not fully AFK, it strikes a good balance between engagement and comfort.

Final Thoughts

Hunter doesn’t have to be a stressful, click-heavy grind. With the right methods, you can train the skill in a much more relaxed and sustainable way.

Maniacal Monkeys stand out as the most AFK option, allowing you to train with minimal interaction. Herbiboar tracking offers a calm and rewarding alternative with solid experience and profit. Birdhouse runs provide unmatched passive training that fits into any playstyle. Finally, drift net fishing delivers strong experience in a more relaxed, rhythmic format.

Choosing the right method depends on your goals. If you want maximum AFK time, go with monkeys or birdhouses. If you prefer a mix of activity and reward, Herbiboar and drift nets are excellent choices.

No matter which method you pick, these approaches make Hunter far more enjoyable and manageable—especially for long sessions.