What’s the fastest way to earn money in the early game?

Earning money quickly in the early game of Red Dead Redemption 2 requires a mix of exploration, resourcefulness, and understanding the game''s mechanics. The early chapters, particularly Chapter 2, are ideal for building your wealth before progressing further. One of the most effective ways to earn money is by hunting and selling pelts, as well as looting enemies and finding hidden treasures.\n\nHunting is a reliable source of income, especially in the early game. Focus on hunting perfect pelts from animals like deer, elk, and boars. Use a rifle or bow with improved arrows to ensure clean kills and maintain the pelt''s quality. The Trapper and Pearson at camp will pay well for high-quality pelts. For example, a perfect deer pelt can fetch around $10, while a perfect elk pelt can sell for $12. Always skin the animal and carry the pelts to the nearest town or camp to sell them.\n\nAnother lucrative method is treasure hunting. Early in the game, you can acquire treasure maps that lead to substantial amounts of gold. For instance, the Jack Hall Gang treasure map, found near Flatneck Station, leads to a series of clues that eventually reward you with gold bars worth $500 each. Follow the map''s hints carefully, and use your binoculars to scout for landmarks. This method requires patience but pays off significantly.\n\nLooting enemies and searching abandoned structures can also yield valuable items. After gunfights, always search the bodies of fallen enemies for cash, jewelry, and other valuables. Items like pocket watches, rings, and belt buckles can be sold to fences, such as Seamus at Emerald Ranch. Additionally, explore abandoned cabins and shacks, as they often contain lockboxes with money or items like gold nuggets.\n\nCompleting side missions and challenges can also boost your earnings. For example, the ''Home Robbery'' side mission in Valentine, where you help a man rob a house, can net you around $50. Similarly, participating in bounty hunting missions or helping strangers in need can reward you with cash and items. Always check your map for mission markers and prioritize those that offer monetary rewards.\n\nFinally, consider selling stolen horses. Horses are valuable commodities, and you can steal them from NPCs or wild herds. Take the horse to a stable or a horse fence to sell it. A high-quality horse, such as a Thoroughbred or Arabian, can fetch a high price. However, be cautious, as stealing horses can increase your bounty and attract lawmen.\n\nTo maximize your earnings, always carry a horse with good stamina and storage capacity to transport pelts and loot. Upgrade your satchel at camp to carry more items, and visit towns like Valentine, Rhodes, or Saint Denis to sell your goods. By combining these methods, you can quickly build a substantial fortune in the early game.\n\nPractical tips: Always carry a rifle for hunting, keep an eye out for treasure maps, and loot every enemy and structure you encounter. Prioritize high-value targets like gold bars and perfect pelts, and avoid unnecessary bounties by being discreet in your actions. With these strategies, you''ll have plenty of money to upgrade your gear and camp in no time.