How do I avoid bounty hunters while fishing in Flat Iron Lake?

Avoiding bounty hunters while fishing in Flat Iron Lake in Red Dead Redemption 2 requires a combination of strategic planning, understanding game mechanics, and utilizing the environment to your advantage. Flat Iron Lake is a large body of water located in the southern part of the map, near Rhodes and Blackwater. It’s a popular fishing spot, but its proximity to towns and roads makes it a hotspot for bounty hunters if you have a high bounty. Here’s how to stay safe while enjoying your fishing trip.\n\nFirst, ensure your bounty is as low as possible before heading to Flat Iron Lake. Bounty hunters are triggered when your bounty exceeds $20 in a region. If you have a high bounty, consider paying it off at a post office or surrendering to lawmen to clear it. If you can’t afford to pay, focus on reducing your bounty by completing missions or earning money through hunting or treasure maps. A lower bounty significantly reduces the chances of bounty hunters spawning.\n\nNext, choose a secluded fishing spot on Flat Iron Lake. The lake is vast, and some areas are less frequented by NPCs and bounty hunters. A good location is the western shore near the small islands, as it’s farther from roads and towns. Avoid fishing near Rhodes or Blackwater, as these areas are heavily patrolled. Use your map to scout for quiet spots and set up camp nearby to save your progress and restock supplies.\n\nWhen fishing, stay alert and use your Eagle Eye ability to scan the surroundings for approaching bounty hunters. Eagle Eye highlights enemies in red, giving you an early warning. If you spot bounty hunters, quickly reel in your line and prepare to defend yourself or flee. Keep your horse nearby for a quick escape, and ensure it’s equipped with a saddle that boosts stamina and speed.\n\nIf bounty hunters do catch up to you, use the terrain to your advantage. Flat Iron Lake’s shoreline has plenty of rocks, trees, and hills that can provide cover. Engage in combat only if necessary, as fighting can escalate your bounty. Use a bow or silenced weapons to minimize noise and avoid drawing more attention. Alternatively, swim to one of the small islands in the lake to create distance between you and the hunters.\n\nTo further reduce the risk of encounters, fish during the day when visibility is high, and avoid nighttime when bounty hunters are harder to spot. Additionally, wear clothing that blends with the environment, such as earthy tones, to make it harder for hunters to detect you. Avoid wearing flashy outfits or items that stand out.\n\nFinally, consider using the Fast Travel system to quickly leave the area if bounty hunters become overwhelming. Set up a camp near your fishing spot and use it to fast travel to a safer location. This is especially useful if you’re carrying valuable fish or supplies and don’t want to risk losing them in a fight.\n\nBy following these steps, you can enjoy a peaceful fishing experience at Flat Iron Lake while minimizing the risk of bounty hunter encounters. Stay vigilant, plan ahead, and use the environment to your advantage to ensure a successful outing.