What’s the best way to fight from horseback in river or lake areas?

Fighting from horseback in river or lake areas in Red Dead Redemption 2 requires a mix of strategy, awareness, and mastery of game mechanics. Water adds an extra layer of complexity to combat, as it can slow movement, obscure vision, and limit your horse''s mobility. To excel in these situations, you need to adapt your approach and use the environment to your advantage.\n\nFirst, ensure your horse is well-trained and bonded. A high bond level (preferably level 4) ensures your horse remains calm during combat and responds quickly to your commands. Horses like the Arabian or Turkoman are excellent choices due to their speed and stamina, which are crucial for maneuvering in water. Always carry Horse Stimulant or Horse Reviver in case your horse gets injured during the fight.\n\nWhen engaging enemies near water, position your horse strategically. Avoid deep water, as it can slow your horse and make you an easy target. Instead, stay in shallow areas where your horse can move freely. Use the terrain to your advantage by positioning yourself behind rocks, trees, or other cover to break line of sight with enemies. This forces them to reposition, giving you time to aim and fire.\n\nUse weapons suited for horseback combat. The Lancaster Repeater or Bolt Action Rifle are excellent choices for mid-range engagements, while the Double-Action Revolver or Sawed-Off Shotgun works well for close-quarters combat. Equip the appropriate weapon based on the distance to your enemies. For example, if you''re fighting near the Dakota River, where enemies might be spread out, a rifle will give you the range and accuracy needed to take them down efficiently.\n\nAim for headshots to conserve ammo and eliminate threats quickly. Use Dead Eye to slow time and line up precise shots, especially when dealing with multiple enemies. Dead Eye is particularly useful in water-based combat, as it allows you to focus on accuracy despite the chaotic environment. Upgrade your Dead Eye abilities through the story or by completing challenges to maximize its effectiveness.\n\nBe mindful of your horse''s stamina. Constantly galloping in water drains stamina faster than on land. Use the calm button (L3 or LS) to soothe your horse and restore stamina during combat. If your horse becomes too tired, dismount and use it as cover while you fight on foot. However, avoid staying in one place for too long, as enemies can flank you.\n\nIn areas like the Kamassa River or Flat Iron Lake, where enemies may use boats or swim, prioritize taking out ranged threats first. Use dynamite or fire bottles to destroy boats or force enemies out of cover. If enemies are swimming, use a rifle to pick them off before they reach you. Swimming enemies are slower and less accurate, making them easier targets.\n\nFinally, always have an escape plan. If the fight becomes overwhelming, retreat to higher ground or a safer area where you can regroup. Use the environment to your advantage by luring enemies into choke points or ambush spots. For example, near the Elysian Pool, you can use the narrow pathways to funnel enemies into a kill zone.\n\nBy mastering these techniques, you can dominate horseback combat in river or lake areas. Practice in less dangerous locations like the Dakota River or Owanjila Lake to refine your skills before taking on tougher challenges.