How do I complete the Survivalist challenges quickly?

Completing the Survivalist challenges in Red Dead Redemption 2 requires a mix of preparation, knowledge of game mechanics, and strategic planning. These challenges test your ability to hunt, fish, and survive in the wilderness, making them some of the most time-consuming tasks in the game. However, with the right approach, you can complete them efficiently.\n\nStart by understanding the requirements for each Survivalist challenge. There are 10 challenges in total, ranging from catching fish to crafting specific items. For example, Survivalist 1 requires you to catch 3 Bluegill fish, while Survivalist 10 demands you to craft 9 pieces of Special Miracle Tonic. Knowing what each challenge entails will help you plan your actions and gather the necessary resources ahead of time.\n\nFor fishing challenges, such as Survivalist 1 and 2, head to locations with abundant fish populations. The Dakota River near Cumberland Forest is an excellent spot for Bluegill, while the Kamassa River near Rhodes is ideal for catching Smallmouth Bass. Use the appropriate bait—corn for Bluegill and crayfish for Smallmouth Bass—to increase your chances of success. Equip your fishing rod and cast your line into the water, aiming for areas where fish are visibly swimming.\n\nHunting challenges, like Survivalist 3 and 4, require you to kill animals with specific weapons. For example, Survivalist 3 asks you to kill 5 animals with a bow. Use the Varmint Rifle or Bow for small animals like rabbits and squirrels, and the Improved Arrow for larger game like deer. The Heartlands and Big Valley are great hunting grounds due to their diverse wildlife. Always aim for headshots to ensure clean kills and preserve the quality of pelts.\n\nCrafting challenges, such as Survivalist 7 and 10, demand specific ingredients. For Survivalist 7, you need to craft 6 Poison Arrows, which require Flight Feathers, Arrowheads, and Oleander Sage. Oleander Sage can be found near the Kamassa River in Bayou Nwa. For Survivalist 10, gather Indian Tobacco, Sage, and Ginseng to craft Special Miracle Tonic. These herbs are scattered across the map, but areas like Roanoke Ridge and Cumberland Forest are particularly rich in these resources.\n\nOne common challenge players face is finding rare animals or fish. For Survivalist 6, which requires catching a fish weighing at least 19 lbs, head to Lake Isabella or Owanjila Lake. Use the Special Lake Lure to attract larger fish like Muskie or Lake Sturgeon. Patience is key, as these fish can take time to bite. Similarly, for Survivalist 8, which involves killing a cougar with a bow, visit the forests near Annesburg or the area west of Lake Owanjila. Use cover scent lotion to avoid detection and aim for a clean headshot.\n\nTo save time, multitask by combining challenges. For example, while hunting for Survivalist 3, gather herbs needed for Survivalist 10. This approach minimizes backtracking and maximizes efficiency. Additionally, use your campfire to craft items on the go, ensuring you always have the necessary tools and tonics.\n\nFinally, equip the right gear and abilities. The Legendary Buck Trinket increases the quality of animal pelts, making it easier to obtain perfect pelts for crafting. The Eagle Eye ability helps you track animals and locate herbs more efficiently. Always carry a variety of weapons and ammunition to handle different challenges without interruption.\n\nBy following these steps and leveraging the game’s mechanics, you can complete the Survivalist challenges quickly and efficiently. Focus on preparation, use strategic locations, and multitask to make the most of your time in the wild.