What are the best locations for finding high-value animal pelts?

Finding high-value animal pelts in Red Dead Redemption 2 is essential for earning money, crafting upgrades, and completing challenges. The quality of pelts depends on the animal species, the condition of the carcass, and the weapon used to hunt. To maximize your earnings, focus on hunting three-star (perfect) animals using the right tools and techniques.\n\nFirst, invest in the right equipment. The Varmint Rifle is ideal for small animals like rabbits and raccoons, while the Bow with Improved Arrows or a Rifle is best for larger animals like deer, elk, and bears. Always aim for headshots to preserve the pelt quality. Additionally, use Dead Eye to ensure precision, especially when targeting fast-moving animals.\n\nOne of the best locations for high-value pelts is Big Valley, located west of Strawberry. This area is teeming with elk, deer, and wolves, all of which yield valuable pelts. The open fields make it easier to spot and track animals. Another excellent spot is Roanoke Ridge, near Brandywine Drop, where you can find moose and black bears. These animals are rare but provide some of the most valuable pelts in the game.\n\nFor smaller, high-value animals, head to the swamps near Saint Denis. Here, you can hunt alligators, which drop large pelts, and exotic birds like herons and spoonbills. These birds are essential for crafting specific trinkets and talismans, making their pelts highly sought after. Use the Varmint Rifle for birds and a Rifle or Bow for alligators.\n\nAnother lucrative hunting ground is the Grizzlies East region, particularly around O''Creagh''s Run. This area is home to bighorn sheep and cougars, both of which yield high-quality pelts. Cougars are dangerous, so approach with caution and always have a powerful weapon ready. Bighorn sheep are easier to hunt and can be found grazing near the water.\n\nWhen hunting, always use scent cover lotion to mask your presence and crouch to reduce noise. This is especially important when stalking skittish animals like deer or predators like cougars. If you spook an animal, use your binoculars to track it and wait for it to calm down before attempting another shot.\n\nAfter securing a perfect pelt, store it on your horse and take it to a Trapper or Pearson at camp. The Trapper can craft unique clothing and gear, while Pearson uses pelts for camp upgrades. Selling pelts to the Trapper is more profitable, but camp upgrades provide long-term benefits like improved morale and supplies.\n\nFinally, consider the time of day and weather conditions. Some animals, like wolves and cougars, are more active at night, while others, like deer and elk, are easier to spot during the day. Rain and fog can make hunting more challenging, so plan your trips accordingly.\n\nIn summary, focus on hunting three-star animals with the right weapons, use stealth and precision, and target high-value locations like Big Valley, Roanoke Ridge, and the swamps near Saint Denis. With these strategies, you''ll maximize your earnings and unlock valuable crafting options.