What’s the best way to hunt fish for crafting?

Hunting fish in Red Dead Redemption 2 is essential for crafting, as fish provide valuable materials like meat and fat, which are used in recipes and upgrades. To hunt fish effectively, you’ll need the right tools, knowledge of fishing mechanics, and an understanding of where to find specific fish species. This guide will walk you through the process step-by-step, including tips for beginners and advanced players.\n\nFirst, you’ll need a fishing rod, which becomes available during Chapter 2 of the game. To unlock it, complete the mission ''A Fisher of Fish'' given by Abigail Marston at Clemens Point. Once you have the rod, you’ll also need bait or lures. Bait can be purchased from general stores or crafted, while special lures are sold at bait shops or obtained through specific challenges. Different fish respond to different bait, so it’s important to match your bait to the fish you’re targeting.\n\nNext, locate a body of water where fish are present. Rivers, lakes, and ponds are ideal spots. For example, the Dakota River near Valentine is a great location for catching smaller fish like Bluegill and Rock Bass, while larger fish like Salmon and Trout can be found in the rivers near Strawberry. Use Eagle Eye (R3 on PlayStation, RS on Xbox) to spot fish in the water. This ability highlights fish and shows their size, helping you identify the best targets.\n\nOnce you’ve found a good spot, equip your fishing rod and select the appropriate bait or lure. Cast your line by holding L2/LT to aim and pressing R2/RT to throw. Aim for areas where fish are visible or near ripples in the water. When a fish bites, you’ll feel a vibration or see the rod tip dip. Quickly press R2/RT to hook the fish, then rotate the right stick (or mouse) to reel it in. Be careful not to reel too quickly, as this can break the line. Instead, alternate between reeling and letting the fish tire itself out.\n\nOne common challenge is catching larger fish, which require more skill and patience. For these, use special lures like the Lake Lure or River Lure, which are more effective for big catches. Additionally, make sure your line is strong enough by upgrading your fishing rod or using better-quality bait. If a fish is struggling too much, stop reeling and let it swim for a bit before trying again.\n\nAfter catching fish, you can either cook them at a campfire for food or use their materials for crafting. Fish meat is a great source of stamina, while fish fat is used to craft items like explosive ammunition. To maximize your efficiency, carry a satchel upgrade to store more fish and avoid frequent trips to sell or cook your catch.\n\nFinally, here are some practical tips: Always carry multiple types of bait to adapt to different fishing conditions. Use Eagle Eye frequently to locate fish and avoid wasting time. If you’re struggling with a specific fish, consult the in-game compendium for hints on its preferred habitat and bait. And remember, fishing is not just about crafting—it’s also a relaxing way to enjoy the game’s beautiful world.\n\nBy following these steps and tips, you’ll become a master angler in no time, ready to craft and upgrade with ease.