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

Catching pickerel in Red Dead Redemption 2 requires the right bait, location, and technique. Pickerel are a medium-sized fish found in freshwater bodies across the game world. They are relatively common but can be tricky to catch if you don’t use the correct bait. The best bait for pickerel is the **Crayfish**, which can be found in shallow waters or purchased from bait shops. Alternatively, **Lake Lures** or **River Lures** can also be effective, especially if you’re aiming for higher-quality catches.\n\nTo start, 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, head to a suitable location. Pickerel are commonly found in rivers and lakes, such as the Dakota River near Valentine or the Kamassa River in Lemoyne. These areas are ideal because they have clear waters and plenty of fish spawn points.\n\nWhen you arrive at your chosen fishing spot, equip your fishing rod and select the appropriate bait. If you’re using Crayfish, make sure you have enough in your inventory. To use the bait, open your satchel, navigate to the bait section, and equip it. Cast your line into the water, aiming for areas where fish are visibly swimming or where ripples appear on the surface. This increases your chances of attracting a pickerel.\n\nOnce your line is in the water, wait for a bite. Pickerel are moderately aggressive, so you won’t have to wait long. When the fish bites, you’ll see a prompt to reel it in. Use the left stick to pull the fish in the opposite direction it’s swimming, and press the reel button (R2/RT) to bring it closer. Be careful not to reel too quickly, as this can cause the line to break. Patience and timing are key to successfully landing the fish.\n\nIf you’re having trouble catching pickerel, consider upgrading your fishing rod with a **Special Lake Lure** or **Special River Lure**. These lures are more effective at attracting higher-quality fish and can be purchased from bait shops or crafted using specific materials. Additionally, fishing during the early morning or late evening can improve your chances, as fish are more active during these times.\n\nOne common challenge players face is losing fish due to line breaks. To avoid this, make sure your fishing line is in good condition and avoid reeling too aggressively. If the fish starts to struggle, ease off the reeling and let it tire itself out. This strategy works well for pickerel, as they are not as strong as larger fish like muskies or sturgeons.\n\nFor players looking to maximize their fishing efficiency, consider using Eagle Eye to spot fish in the water. This ability highlights fish and other wildlife, making it easier to target specific species. Additionally, wearing the right outfit, such as the **Legendary Buck Vest**, can improve your hunting and fishing stats, giving you a slight edge.\n\nIn summary, the best bait for catching pickerel in Red Dead Redemption 2 is Crayfish, though Lake Lures and River Lures are also effective. Focus on freshwater locations like the Dakota River or Kamassa River, and use patience and proper technique to reel in your catch. Upgrading your gear and fishing during optimal times can further enhance your success. Happy fishing!