What is the best way to fish in deep water in Red Dead Redemption 2?

Fishing in deep water in Red Dead Redemption 2 requires a combination of the right equipment, knowledge of game mechanics, and strategic use of bait or lures. To start, you need a fishing rod, which can be obtained during the mission A Fisher of Men in Chapter 2. This mission introduces you to fishing mechanics and provides the rod for free. Once you have the rod, you can fish in any body of water, but deep water locations like lakes and rivers are ideal for catching larger fish.\n\nTo fish effectively in deep water, you must first equip the correct bait or lure. The type of bait you use depends on the fish you are targeting. For example, Lake Lures are ideal for catching large fish like Muskie or Northern Pike, while Special River Lures work best for species like Steelhead Trout. You can purchase these lures from bait shops in towns like Lagras or Valentine. If you are unsure which bait to use, check the compendium in your journal for details on each fish species and their preferred bait.\n\nOnce you have the right equipment, find a deep water location. Some of the best spots include O''Creagh''s Run in the Grizzlies East region for Muskie, Lake Isabella for Salmon, and the Dakota River for Steelhead Trout. Stand near the water''s edge and equip your fishing rod from the weapon wheel. Cast your line by holding the aim button and releasing it when the power meter reaches the desired distance. In deep water, you want to cast as far as possible to reach the larger fish.\n\nAfter casting, wait for a fish to bite. You will see the line tighten and feel the controller vibrate (if using a controller). When this happens, quickly press the reel-in button to hook the fish. Once hooked, the real challenge begins. Larger fish in deep water are more aggressive and will fight harder to escape. To reel them in, use a combination of reeling and pulling the rod in the opposite direction of the fish''s movement. Be careful not to reel too quickly, as this can break the line.\n\nOne common challenge is managing the fish''s stamina. Larger fish will tire out over time, but so will your character. If you notice your stamina core depleting, stop reeling and let the fish swim for a bit. This gives you time to recover and prevents the line from breaking. Additionally, avoid reeling when the fish is thrashing, as this can also snap the line. Patience is key when fishing in deep water.\n\nFor players struggling with the mechanics, consider upgrading your fishing rod with better lures or using Eagle Eye to spot fish in the water. Eagle Eye highlights fish in the water, making it easier to target specific species. You can also use the Dead Eye ability to slow down time during the reeling process, giving you more control over the fish''s movements.\n\nFinally, always check the weather and time of day. Some fish are more active during specific conditions. For example, Salmon are easier to catch in the early morning or late evening. Experiment with different times and locations to maximize your success. With practice and the right strategy, you can master deep water fishing and catch some of the largest fish in the game.\n\nPractical tips: Always carry multiple types of bait and lures to adapt to different fishing spots. Use Eagle Eye to identify fish before casting. Upgrade your lures at bait shops for better results. And most importantly, be patient—deep water fishing is a test of skill and endurance.