What is the best way to catch fish in shallow water in RDR2?

Fishing in shallow water in Red Dead Redemption 2 (RDR2) is a rewarding activity that requires understanding the game mechanics and using the right tools. 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 the basics of fishing, including casting, reeling, and catching fish. Once you have the rod, you can fish in any body of water, but shallow areas like rivers, streams, and lakeshores are ideal for certain species.\n\nTo catch fish in shallow water, first, equip your fishing rod from the weapon wheel. Stand near the water''s edge and aim your rod toward the water. Use the left stick to adjust the casting distance and the right stick to aim. Press the cast button to throw your line. In shallow water, you don’t need to cast far; a short or medium cast is often enough. Watch for fish shadows in the water to identify where to aim.\n\nOnce your line is in the water, wait for a fish to bite. You’ll see the line tighten and feel the controller vibrate (if using a controller). When this happens, quickly press the hook button to set the hook. After hooking the fish, use the left stick to pull in the opposite direction of the fish’s movement while reeling in with the right stick. Be careful not to reel too fast, as this can break the line. In shallow water, fish tend to tire faster, making them easier to catch.\n\nSome of the best shallow water fishing spots include the Dakota River near Valentine, the Kamassa River in Lemoyne, and the shores of Flat Iron Lake. These locations are home to species like Bluegill, Rock Bass, and Chain Pickerel, which are common in shallow waters. Use the appropriate bait to increase your chances of success. For example, bread or cheese bait works well for smaller fish, while crickets or worms are better for larger species.\n\nOne common challenge is dealing with fish that swim away quickly. To counter this, use the ''stop and go'' technique: stop reeling when the fish struggles and resume when it calms down. This conserves stamina and prevents the line from breaking. Additionally, upgrading your fishing rod with better lures, such as the Special Spinner or Special River Lure, can make catching fish in shallow water much easier.\n\nFor new players, it’s important to practice patience and timing. Fishing in RDR2 is a relaxing activity, but it requires focus. Experienced players can experiment with different baits and lures to target specific fish or complete challenges. Remember to store your caught fish on your horse or in your satchel to sell them later at a general store or use them for crafting.\n\nIn summary, fishing in shallow water in RDR2 is straightforward once you master the mechanics. Use short casts, watch for fish shadows, and employ the right bait. Visit popular shallow water spots like the Dakota River or Flat Iron Lake for the best results. With practice and the right tools, you’ll be reeling in fish in no time.