How do I catch the Legendary Channel Catfish in Red Dead Redemption 2?

Catching the Legendary Channel Catfish in Red Dead Redemption 2 is one of the most challenging fishing tasks in the game. This fish is unique because it cannot be caught through normal means, and its encounter is tied to a specific mission. To begin, you must first complete the main story mission ''A Fisher of Fish'' in Chapter 4, where you meet Jeremy Gill, a fisherman who tasks you with catching all 13 Legendary Fish. The Legendary Channel Catfish is the final fish in this questline.\n\nTo start the process, you need to unlock the fishing rod. This is done during the mission ''A Fisher of Men'' in Chapter 2, where Hosea teaches Arthur how to fish. Once you have the fishing rod, you can begin catching Legendary Fish. However, the Legendary Channel Catfish is unique because it is only accessible during the mission ''A Fisher of Fish'' and cannot be caught outside of it. This mission becomes available after completing the main story and reaching the epilogue as John Marston.\n\nDuring the mission, Jeremy Gill will send you a letter directing you to the location of the Legendary Channel Catfish. The fish is found in the San Luis River, near the southern border of the map, close to the town of San Luis. To reach this area, you must travel to the southernmost part of the map, near the edge of the playable area. The exact spot is marked on your map with a fish icon once you receive the letter.\n\nWhen you arrive at the location, equip the Special River Lure, which is essential for catching Legendary Fish. This lure can be purchased from the bait shop in Lagras or crafted using the Legendary Bluegill and Legendary Smallmouth Bass. Once you have the lure, cast your line into the water near the marked area. The Legendary Channel Catfish is a massive fish, so be prepared for a long and challenging fight. Use the reeling mechanics carefully: hold the right stick down to pull the fish closer, then quickly release and reel in when the fish stops struggling.\n\nOne common challenge players face is the fish breaking the line. To avoid this, ensure your fishing line is in good condition and use the correct lure. Additionally, keep an eye on the tension meter; if it turns red, stop reeling and let the fish tire itself out. Patience is key, as the Legendary Channel Catfish will put up a strong fight. Once you successfully reel it in, return to Jeremy Gill to complete the mission.\n\nIt''s important to note that the Legendary Channel Catfish cannot be kept or cooked. Instead, it is part of the mission''s narrative, and catching it concludes Jeremy Gill''s questline. This fish is more of a symbolic achievement rather than a practical one, but it adds depth to the game''s world and story.\n\nFor players struggling with the fishing mechanics, practice catching smaller fish first to get a feel for the controls. The Legendary Fish are significantly harder to catch, so mastering the basics is crucial. Additionally, make sure to save your game before attempting to catch the Legendary Channel Catfish, as it can be frustrating to lose progress if something goes wrong.\n\nIn summary, catching the Legendary Channel Catfish requires completing the main story, unlocking the fishing rod, and progressing through Jeremy Gill''s questline. Use the Special River Lure, be patient during the fight, and remember that this fish is tied to a specific mission. While it may not provide tangible rewards, it is a memorable and rewarding experience for dedicated players.