How can I make money by selling rare animal pelts?

Making money by selling rare animal pelts in Red Dead Redemption 2 is one of the most profitable activities in the game. Rare pelts are highly valuable and can be sold to trappers, butchers, or general stores for a significant profit. To maximize your earnings, you need to hunt specific animals, ensure the pelts are in perfect condition, and know where to sell them. This guide will walk you through the process step-by-step, including tips for hunting, preserving pelts, and finding the best buyers.\n\nFirst, you need to identify which animals yield rare pelts. Legendary animals, such as the Legendary Bear or Legendary Buck, are the most valuable, but they are also the hardest to find and hunt. Other rare pelts come from animals like panthers, cougars, moose, and bison. These animals are typically found in specific regions of the map. For example, panthers are located in the forests south of Rhodes, while moose can be found near Lake Isabella or the northern parts of Ambarino.\n\nTo hunt these animals effectively, you need the right tools. A rifle or bow with improved arrows is ideal for larger animals like moose and bison, while a varmint rifle or small game arrows are better for smaller, more delicate creatures. Always aim for a clean kill by targeting the head or heart to ensure the pelt remains in perfect condition. Using the wrong weapon or damaging the pelt will reduce its value significantly. Additionally, use Dead Eye to improve your accuracy and increase your chances of a clean kill.\n\nOnce you’ve successfully hunted the animal, skin it immediately to collect the pelt. Store the pelt on your horse, but be cautious—pelts can be lost if your horse dies or if you fast travel. If you’re hunting multiple animals, consider using a hunting wagon or temporarily storing pelts at camp. Legendary pelts, however, are automatically sent to the trapper if you lose them, so they are less risky to carry.\n\nNext, you need to know where to sell your pelts. Trappers are the best buyers for rare pelts, as they offer higher prices and can craft unique items from them. Trappers are located in several spots across the map, including near Saint Denis, Riggs Station, and Strawberry. Butchers and general stores will also buy pelts, but they pay less. Always prioritize selling to a trapper if you want to maximize your profit.\n\nOne common challenge is finding the animals themselves. Rare animals like panthers and cougars are elusive and often require patience. Use bait, such as predator bait or herbivore bait, to lure them out. Additionally, study the animal’s behavior and habitat. For example, panthers are more active at night, while moose are often found near water sources. Using the right strategy will save you time and increase your chances of success.\n\nFinally, consider upgrading your satchel to carry more pelts and materials. The Legend of the East satchel, for example, allows you to carry 99 of each item, making it easier to stockpile pelts for sale. This upgrade requires hunting specific animals and crafting at Pearson’s camp, but it’s worth the effort for serious hunters.\n\nIn summary, making money from rare pelts involves hunting specific animals, using the right tools, preserving the pelt’s quality, and selling to the right buyer. Focus on legendary animals and other rare species, hunt strategically, and always aim for clean kills. With patience and practice, you can turn hunting into a lucrative source of income in Red Dead Redemption 2.