What’s the best way to earn money fast in the early game?

Earning money fast in the early game of Red Dead Redemption 2 requires a mix of exploration, resourcefulness, and understanding the game''s mechanics. One of the most effective ways to make money early is by hunting and selling animal pelts, meat, and other parts. Animals like deer, elk, and boars are abundant in the wilderness, and their pelts can fetch a decent price at butchers or general stores. Focus on hunting perfect pelts by using the right weapon for each animal (e.g., a rifle for deer) and aiming for headshots. This ensures the highest quality pelts, which sell for more.\n\nAnother reliable method is looting enemies and searching for valuables. After gunfights with bandits or rival gangs, always loot their bodies for cash, jewelry, and other items. These can be sold to fences, which become available after completing the Hosea mission ''Spines of America'' in Chapter 2. Fences are essential for selling stolen goods, and they offer better prices for items like pocket watches, rings, and gold bars. Keep an eye out for lockboxes and chests in enemy camps, as they often contain valuable loot.\n\nTreasure hunting is another lucrative option. Early in the game, you can find treasure maps that lead to hidden gold bars. One of the easiest maps to obtain is the ''Jack Hall Gang Treasure Map,'' which can be purchased from a treasure hunter near Flatneck Station. Follow the clues to locate the treasure, and you''ll earn multiple gold bars worth $500 each. These can be sold at a fence for a significant cash boost. Treasure hunting requires patience and exploration, but the rewards are well worth the effort.\n\nCompleting story missions and side activities also provides a steady income. Missions like ''Money Lending and Other Sins'' in Chapter 2 reward you with cash and valuable items. Additionally, participating in activities like fishing, horse breaking, and stagecoach robberies can yield quick money. For example, fishing near Valentine or Rhodes can provide high-value fish like salmon or trout, which sell well at general stores. Horse breaking, on the other hand, allows you to tame wild horses and sell them at stables for a profit.\n\nFinally, consider exploring abandoned structures and hidden locations for loot. Places like Limpany, a burned-down town south of Horseshoe Overlook, contain a gold bar in the sheriff''s office. Similarly, the train wreck near Cotorra Springs hides a gold bar in one of the train cars. These locations are easy to access early in the game and provide a quick cash injection. Always carry a lock breaker to open locked drawers and chests, as they often contain valuable items.\n\nTo maximize your earnings, prioritize hunting for perfect pelts, looting enemies, and completing treasure hunts. Use the money to upgrade your camp, purchase better weapons, and improve your horse. These investments will make future money-making activities easier and more profitable. Remember to save frequently, as some methods, like hunting or looting, can be risky and may result in losing your progress if you die or get caught by lawmen.\n\nIn summary, the best way to earn money fast in the early game is by combining hunting, looting, treasure hunting, and completing missions. Focus on high-value activities like selling perfect pelts and gold bars, and always explore the world for hidden loot. With these strategies, you''ll quickly build up your funds and gain a strong financial foundation for the rest of the game.