What’s the best way to hunt animals for Trader role materials?

Hunting animals for Trader role materials in Red Dead Online requires a strategic approach to maximize efficiency and yield. The Trader role revolves around gathering animal carcasses and pelts to supply Cripps at your camp, which he then processes into goods for sale. To excel in this role, you need to focus on hunting high-quality animals, managing your inventory, and optimizing your hunting routes.\n\nFirst, prioritize hunting three-star (perfect) animals, as they provide the most materials. Use the right weapon for each animal to preserve their quality. For example, use a rifle for large animals like deer, elk, and bears, and a varmint rifle for smaller animals like rabbits and raccoons. Always aim for headshots to ensure a clean kill and maintain the animal''s star rating. If you''re unsure which weapon to use, consult the Animal Field Guide in the game''s compendium.\n\nNext, focus on hunting in areas with high animal density. The Heartlands, Great Plains, and Big Valley are excellent locations for hunting deer, pronghorns, and elk. These areas are open and provide clear sightlines, making it easier to spot and track animals. For smaller game, head to forests or riverbanks where rabbits, raccoons, and birds are abundant. Use your Eagle Eye ability to highlight animals and track their movements.\n\nTo maximize efficiency, consider using a hunting wagon. This item, unlocked through the Trader role progression, allows you to store multiple large carcasses and pelts. Call your hunting wagon when you''ve gathered a few perfect carcasses, and store them for later use. This way, you can continue hunting without returning to camp immediately. If you don''t have a hunting wagon yet, use your horse to carry one large carcass and stow smaller pelts and carcasses on its sides.\n\nOne common challenge is dealing with predators like wolves and cougars. These animals can attack you while hunting, so always be prepared. Carry a shotgun or a powerful rifle to defend yourself. If you''re hunting in predator-heavy areas like Tall Trees or Roanoke Ridge, stay alert and listen for growls or rustling bushes. Killing predators can also yield valuable materials, so don''t shy away from hunting them if the opportunity arises.\n\nFinally, manage your camp''s supplies effectively. Cripps can only process a limited amount of materials at a time, so ensure your camp is stocked with enough carcasses and pelts to keep production running smoothly. If your materials are full, consider selling excess goods or donating them to other players in your posse. This ensures you''re always making progress in your Trader role.\n\nIn summary, the best way to hunt for Trader role materials involves targeting high-quality animals, using the right weapons, hunting in optimal locations, and managing your inventory efficiently. By following these steps, you''ll quickly amass the materials needed to grow your Trader business and earn substantial profits.