What’s the best way to hunt in the forests of Big Valley?

Hunting in the forests of Big Valley in Red Dead Redemption 2 is one of the most rewarding experiences due to the abundance of wildlife and scenic beauty. To maximize your success, you need to understand the game mechanics, use the right tools, and follow a strategic approach. Big Valley is home to a variety of animals, including deer, elk, bears, and smaller game like rabbits and squirrels. The key to effective hunting is patience, stealth, and proper preparation.\n\nFirst, ensure you have the right equipment. A bow with improved arrows or a rifle with a scope is ideal for hunting larger animals like elk and deer. For smaller game, such as rabbits or squirrels, a varmint rifle or small game arrows are necessary to preserve the quality of the pelts. Always carry a hunting knife for skinning and binoculars to scout animals from a distance. Additionally, stock up on scent cover lotion to mask your presence and reduce the chance of spooking animals.\n\nStart your hunt by entering Big Valley from the north, near Hanging Dog Ranch, or from the south near Strawberry. These areas are teeming with wildlife. Use your binoculars to scan the horizon and look for movement or animal tracks. The Eagle Eye ability is invaluable here, as it highlights animal trails and scents. Follow these trails carefully, crouching to reduce noise and moving slowly to avoid detection. Animals in Big Valley are sensitive to sound and movement, so stealth is crucial.\n\nWhen you spot an animal, assess its quality by focusing on it with your binoculars or weapon. A three-star rating indicates a perfect pelt, which is essential for crafting and selling at top prices. Aim for a clean kill by targeting the head or heart with a single shot. Using the wrong weapon or hitting the animal multiple times will degrade the pelt quality. For example, a rifle is perfect for deer, while a bow is better for silent kills on elk.\n\nOne common challenge in Big Valley is dealing with predators like wolves or grizzly bears. If you encounter a bear, stay calm and keep your distance. Bears are aggressive but can be avoided by climbing a rock or tree. Wolves, on the other hand, often attack in packs. Use a repeater or shotgun to fend them off quickly. Always carry health tonics and be prepared to defend yourself while hunting in these areas.\n\nAfter a successful hunt, skin the animal immediately to collect the pelt and other materials. Store the pelt on your horse, but be mindful of your inventory space. If you’re hunting for multiple animals, consider setting up camp nearby to store excess pelts or fast travel to a trapper or butcher to sell your goods. The trapper in Big Valley is located near Riggs Station, making it a convenient spot to offload your haul.\n\nFinally, take advantage of the time of day and weather conditions. Animals are most active during dawn and dusk, so plan your hunts accordingly. Rainy weather can make tracking easier, as it dampens your footsteps and reduces noise. However, storms may also reduce visibility, so adjust your strategy as needed.\n\nIn summary, hunting in Big Valley requires the right tools, stealth, and patience. Use binoculars and Eagle Eye to track animals, aim for clean kills to preserve pelt quality, and be prepared for predators. With these tips, you’ll master the forests of Big Valley and make the most of your hunting expeditions.