The Tool Trader is a new NPC introduced in 99 Nights in the Forest’s Modifier Flames update that changes how players obtain and upgrade fishing rods and taming flutes. Previously, these tools could only be found in specific cabin locations scattered around the map, and upgrades were handled at a separate Upgrade Station building. The Tool Trader consolidates both purchasing and upgrading into one convenient location, making tool progression more streamlined and accessible from the early game. Let us take a look at where to find the Tool Trader NPC in 99 Nights in the Forest.
Tool Trader Location in 99 Nights in the Forest
The Tool Trader NPC spawns close to your campfire, typically appearing after your map expands for the first or second time. His workshop is positioned near the campfire, making him relatively easy to locate once he appears. He appears on your mini-map with a distinctive hammer and screwdriver cross symbol. This icon helps you navigate directly to his location without wandering around searching. Since the Tool Trader appears fairly early in most runs, you can access his services starting from Day 1, giving you the option to purchase tools immediately if you have enough Mossy Coins.
What the Tool Trader Sells in 99 Nights in the Forest
The Tool Trader currently sells two items that are essential for specific survival activities in 99 Nights in the Forest. Both items are one-time purchases, meaning you can only buy each tool once per run from the Tool Trader.
| Item | Cost | Alternative Location |
|---|---|---|
| Old Fishing Rod | 20 Mossy Coins | Fishing Cabin (behind camp) |
| Old Taming Flute | 20 Mossy Coins | Domestication Cabin (near camp) or Zookeeper Class |
Both items cost 20 Mossy Coins each. Mossy Coins are scattered throughout the forest on buildings, structures, and various locations. You can also obtain Mossy Coins by killing cultists during encounters.
How to Upgrade Tools
The Tool Trader doesn’t just sell tools – he also allows you to upgrade your Fishing Rod and Taming Flute in the current version of 99 Nights in the Forest. The old Upgrade Station building has been completely removed from the game and replaced by the Tool Workbench located next to the Tool Trader NPC.
Upgrading tools requires Tool XP, which you earn by actively using the tools during your run. Using the Fishing Rod to catch fish generates Fishing Rod XP, while using the Taming Flute to tame animals generates Taming Flute XP. The more you use each tool, the more XP you accumulate toward upgrades.
Here’s the step-by-step process to upgrade your tools:
- Step 1: Equip a tool.
- Step 2: Walk up to the Tool Workbench located next to the Tool Trader NPC and interact with it.
- Step 3: Check if you have sufficient Tool XP for the upgrade. If you don’t have enough XP, continue using the tool to fish or tame animals until you reach the required amount.
- Step 4: Once you have enough XP, confirm the upgrade at the Tool Workbench.
Since the Tool Trader is now the only location where you can upgrade these tools, finding him early in each run becomes important if you plan to rely heavily on fishing or animal taming. Without access to the Tool Trader, your tools remain at their base level regardless of how much XP you’ve accumulated.
