What are the best locations for fishing to earn money quickly?

Fishing is one of the most profitable activities in Red Dead Redemption 2, especially if you know the best locations and techniques. To start fishing, you’ll need a fishing rod, which becomes available after completing the mission ''A Fisher of Men'' in Chapter 2. Once you have the rod, you can fish in any body of water, but some spots yield better catches than others. Focus on areas with high-value fish like salmon, trout, and sturgeon, as these sell for the most money at butchers or general stores.\n\nOne of the best fishing locations is the Dakota River, specifically near Cumberland Falls. This area is teeming with Sockeye Salmon, which sell for $4.25 each. To maximize your earnings, use the Special River Lure, which can be purchased from bait shops or crafted. The Special Lure increases your chances of catching high-value fish. Stand on the rocks near the waterfall and cast your line into the deeper parts of the river. Reel in slowly to attract salmon, and avoid reeling too fast, as this can scare the fish away.\n\nAnother excellent spot is O’Creagh’s Run, located in the Grizzlies East region. This lake is home to Lake Sturgeon, which sell for $7.00 each. Use the Special Lake Lure here and cast your line into the deeper sections of the lake. Sturgeon are larger and harder to catch, so be patient and use the reeling mechanics effectively. Hold the left stick down to keep the fish from escaping, and reel in when the tension on the line decreases. This spot is particularly lucrative because sturgeon are among the most valuable fish in the game.\n\nFor players in the early stages of the game, the Kamassa River near Rhodes is a great option. This area is rich in Smallmouth Bass, which sell for $2.00 each. While not as valuable as salmon or sturgeon, Smallmouth Bass are easier to catch and can be found in large quantities. Use the Special Swamp Lure here and focus on the slower-moving sections of the river. This is a good spot for beginners to practice their fishing skills while still earning decent money.\n\nTo make the most of your fishing trips, always carry a few lures and bait. Special Lures are ideal for high-value fish, but if you run out, regular bait like crayfish or worms can still yield good results. Additionally, consider upgrading your satchel to carry more fish at once. The Legend of the East Satchel, obtained by completing all satchel upgrades, allows you to carry up to 99 of each fish type, significantly increasing your earning potential.\n\nA common challenge players face is losing fish due to line breaks or the fish escaping. To avoid this, always keep an eye on the tension meter. If the meter turns red, stop reeling and let the fish tire itself out. Use the left stick to control the rod and keep the fish from swimming too far. Once the tension decreases, resume reeling. This technique is especially important for larger fish like sturgeon, which can easily break your line if you’re not careful.\n\nFinally, sell your fish as soon as possible to avoid spoilage. Fish stored in your satchel will eventually rot, reducing their value. Visit butchers in towns like Valentine, Saint Denis, or Rhodes to sell your catch. These towns are close to the best fishing spots, making them convenient for quick trips. By following these tips and focusing on high-value locations, you can earn a significant amount of money through fishing in Red Dead Redemption 2.