What are the best strategies for donating pelts to Pearson?

Donating pelts to Pearson in Red Dead Redemption 2 is a key mechanic for upgrading your camp and unlocking valuable benefits. Pearson, the camp cook, uses pelts to craft satchels, improve camp aesthetics, and provide other upgrades. To maximize your donations, focus on hunting high-quality pelts and understanding the specific requirements for each upgrade.\n\nFirst, prioritize hunting three-star animals, as their pelts yield the best quality. Use the right weapon for each animal to avoid damaging the pelt. For example, use a bow with small game arrows for rabbits and squirrels, a varmint rifle for medium-sized animals like raccoons, and a rifle for larger animals like deer or bears. Always aim for headshots to ensure a clean kill and preserve the pelt''s quality.\n\nOnce you have a high-quality pelt, return to camp and donate it to Pearson at the butcher table. Open the donation menu and select the pelt from your inventory. Pearson will store it for crafting. Be aware that pelts stored on your horse will be lost if your horse dies or you fast travel, so prioritize delivering them to camp as soon as possible.\n\nTo unlock specific upgrades, check Pearson''s crafting menu. For example, the Legend of the East Satchel requires pelts from a variety of animals, including deer, elk, and bison. Plan your hunting trips accordingly, focusing on the animals needed for your desired upgrades. Use the in-game map to locate animal habitats, such as deer in Big Valley or bison in the Heartlands.\n\nA common challenge is managing inventory space. If your satchel is full, store excess pelts on your horse. However, remember that your horse can only carry one large pelt at a time, so prioritize the most valuable ones. For smaller pelts, you can carry multiple, but they still count toward your inventory limit.\n\nAnother tip is to hunt during optimal times. Many animals are more active at dawn or dusk, so plan your trips accordingly. Use cover scent lotion to avoid spooking animals and approach slowly to get a clean shot. If you''re struggling to find a specific animal, consult the compendium for hints on their behavior and preferred locations.\n\nFinally, consider the benefits of upgrading your camp. Improved satchels increase your carrying capacity, while camp upgrades like the medicine wagon or ammo stockpile provide valuable resources. These upgrades can significantly enhance your gameplay experience, making it easier to survive and thrive in the wild.\n\nIn summary, focus on hunting high-quality pelts, use the right weapons, and deliver pelts to Pearson promptly. Plan your hunts based on the upgrades you want, and manage your inventory carefully. With these strategies, you''ll efficiently upgrade your camp and enjoy the benefits of your hard work.