What are the best times of day to fish in Red Dead Redemption 2?

Fishing in Red Dead Redemption 2 is a rewarding activity that can provide food, income, and even rare items. The best times of day to fish are during the early morning (5:00 AM to 9:00 AM) and late afternoon to early evening (4:00 PM to 7:00 PM). These times align with the in-game mechanics where fish are most active, increasing your chances of catching larger or rarer species. Fishing outside these hours is still possible, but the bite rate may decrease, especially at night or during midday when fish are less active.\n\nTo maximize your fishing success, start by equipping the right gear. You’ll need a fishing rod, which can be obtained during the mission ''A Fisher of Fish'' in Chapter 2. Once you have the rod, visit a general store or camp to purchase bait. Different fish species require specific bait types: worms for smaller fish, crickets for medium-sized fish, and special lures for larger or legendary fish. For example, the Lake Lure is ideal for fishing in lakes, while the River Lure works best in rivers.\n\nLocation is another critical factor. Some of the best fishing spots include O’Creagh’s Run in the Grizzlies East for Lake Sturgeon, the Dakota River near Cumberland Falls for Steelhead Trout, and the Kamassa River in Bayou Nwa for Longnose Gar. Legendary fish, such as the Legendary Bluegill, can be found in specific locations like the southern shore of Flat Iron Lake. Always check your map for water bodies and use Eagle Eye to spot fish activity.\n\nWhen fishing, cast your line into deeper water where fish are more likely to gather. Use the left stick to aim your cast and the right stick to control the distance. Once your bait is in the water, wait for a fish to bite. You’ll feel a vibration or see the rod tip dip. Quickly press and hold the right trigger to hook the fish, then rotate the right stick to reel it in. Be patient and avoid reeling too fast, as this can cause the line to break.\n\nCommon challenges include losing fish due to line tension or using the wrong bait. To avoid breaking the line, keep an eye on the tension meter and release the reel button if it turns red. If you’re not getting bites, switch to a different bait type or move to a new spot. Additionally, weather conditions like rain can improve fishing success, so consider fishing during light rain or overcast skies.\n\nFor legendary fish, you’ll need the Special Lure, which can be purchased from the bait shop in Lagras. These fish are tougher to catch and require precise reeling techniques. Always save your game before attempting to catch a legendary fish, as they can be difficult to hook and reel in. Once caught, legendary fish can be mailed to Jeremy Gill for rewards.\n\nFinally, practical tips for fishing include carrying plenty of bait, using Eagle Eye to locate fish, and avoiding noisy areas where fish might be scared away. If you’re fishing for profit, focus on high-value species like Salmon and Trout, which can be sold to butchers or used in crafting. For new players, practice in calm waters like the Dakota River before tackling tougher spots. Experienced gamers can challenge themselves by targeting legendary fish or fishing in less accessible areas like the icy waters of the Grizzlies.\n\nBy following these tips and understanding the game mechanics, you’ll become a master angler in Red Dead Redemption 2, reaping the rewards of this relaxing and profitable activity.