What’s the best bait for catching trout in the game?

Catching trout in Red Dead Redemption 2 is a rewarding activity that can provide food, crafting materials, and a steady income. The best bait for catching trout is the **Special River Lure**, which is highly effective for attracting larger and higher-quality fish, including trout. However, if you don’t have access to the Special River Lure, the **River Lure** or **Crickets** are also viable options, especially for smaller trout.\n\nTo obtain the Special River Lure, you’ll need to visit a bait shop or a general store that sells fishing equipment. The most accessible location is the bait shop in **Lagras**, located in the Bayou Nwa region near Saint Denis. Alternatively, you can purchase it from the general store in **Valentine** or **Rhodes**. The Special River Lure costs $20, but it’s a worthwhile investment for serious anglers. If you’re early in the game and short on funds, the River Lure or Crickets are cheaper alternatives.\n\nOnce you have the bait, head to a river or stream where trout are known to spawn. Some of the best locations for trout fishing include the **Dakota River** near Valentine, the **Kamassa River** in Lemoyne, and the **Upper Montana River** in West Elizabeth. These areas are teeming with trout, and you’ll often find them in deeper, slower-moving sections of the water. Look for ripples or splashes on the surface, as these indicate fish activity.\n\nTo start fishing, equip your fishing rod from the weapon wheel and select your bait. Approach the water’s edge and cast your line by holding the aim button and pressing the cast button. Aim for areas where you see fish or ripples, as this increases your chances of a bite. Once your bait is in the water, wait for a fish to take the bait. You’ll know a fish is biting when the controller vibrates and the line starts to move.\n\nWhen a fish bites, quickly press the hook button to set the hook. Then, begin reeling in the fish by rotating the right stick or holding the reel button. Be careful not to reel too quickly, as this can cause the line to break. Instead, alternate between reeling and letting the fish tire itself out by pulling against the line. Use the left stick to guide the fish away from obstacles like rocks or weeds, which can also snap the line.\n\nOne common challenge players face is losing fish due to line tension. To avoid this, pay attention to the tension meter on the screen. If the meter turns red, stop reeling and let the fish swim for a bit. This reduces tension and prevents the line from breaking. Additionally, upgrading your fishing rod at the bait shop can improve your chances of landing larger fish.\n\nFor players looking to maximize their fishing efficiency, consider using Eagle Eye to spot fish in the water. This ability highlights fish in a golden glow, making it easier to target specific species like trout. Also, keep in mind that weather and time of day can affect fish behavior. Trout are more active during overcast or rainy conditions, so plan your fishing trips accordingly.\n\nFinally, if you’re aiming to catch perfect trout for crafting or selling, use the Special River Lure and aim for three-star fish. These are the highest quality and can be sold for a higher price or used in crafting recipes like the Trout Cakes at camp. With practice and the right bait, you’ll become a master angler in no time.