What’s the easiest way to cross rivers and lakes without a boat?

Crossing rivers and lakes in Red Dead Redemption 2 without a boat can be challenging, but there are several effective methods to navigate water bodies safely. The game mechanics around water are designed to be realistic, so swimming is limited by stamina, and your character can drown if stamina depletes. However, with the right strategies, you can traverse water bodies efficiently.\n\nOne of the easiest ways to cross rivers and lakes is by using your horse. Horses in RDR2 are excellent swimmers, and they can carry you across most water bodies without issue. To do this, simply ride your horse into the water and let it swim. Ensure your horse has high stamina by bonding with it (Level 4 bonding is ideal) and feeding it regularly. If your horse’s stamina is low, use horse stimulants or tonics to boost it temporarily. This method is particularly useful in areas like the Dakota River or Flat Iron Lake, where water is deep but manageable for a horse.\n\nIf you don’t have a horse or prefer to cross on foot, look for shallow areas or natural crossings. Many rivers in the game have shallow sections where you can wade across without swimming. For example, the Upper Montana River near Strawberry has several shallow spots where you can walk across. Use the in-game map to scout for narrow sections of rivers, as these are often the easiest to cross. Additionally, rocks or fallen trees can sometimes serve as makeshift bridges, allowing you to avoid swimming altogether.\n\nAnother practical solution is to use the environment to your advantage. Look for logs, debris, or ice formations that can help you cross. In colder regions like the Grizzlies, frozen lakes can be traversed on foot or horseback, but be cautious as ice can crack and break. Always test the ice by walking slowly and listening for cracking sounds. If you hear cracking, retreat immediately to avoid falling into the water.\n\nFor players who want to avoid water entirely, consider using fast travel or planning your route carefully. Fast travel is unlocked after upgrading your camp with Dutch’s lodgings, and it allows you to skip long journeys across water. Alternatively, use the in-game map to plot a route that avoids large water bodies. For example, instead of crossing Flat Iron Lake, you can ride around it via the shoreline.\n\nFinally, if you must swim, manage your stamina carefully. Remove heavy clothing or items that reduce stamina regeneration before entering the water. Use tonics like Potent Health Cure or Bitters to boost stamina temporarily. If you’re caught in a strong current, swim diagonally toward the shore rather than fighting the current head-on. This technique conserves stamina and increases your chances of reaching safety.\n\nIn summary, the easiest way to cross rivers and lakes without a boat is to use your horse, find shallow crossings, or utilize environmental features like logs and ice. Plan your route carefully, manage stamina, and use items to enhance your chances of success. With these strategies, you can navigate water bodies in RDR2 with confidence.