What’s the best way to hunt fish for crafting materials?

Hunting fish for crafting materials in Red Dead Redemption 2 is a rewarding activity that requires preparation, patience, and knowledge of the game''s mechanics. Fish are essential for crafting items like potent predator bait, special health tonics, and other valuable resources. To maximize your efficiency, you’ll need the right tools, locations, and strategies.\n\nFirst, you’ll need a fishing rod, which becomes available after completing the mission ''A Fisher of Fish'' in Chapter 2. This mission is given by Abigail at Horseshoe Overlook. Once you have the rod, you’ll also need to purchase or craft bait. Different fish species require specific bait types. For example, crayfish and cheese work well for smaller fish like Bluegill, while special lures are needed for larger fish such as Muskie or Sturgeon. Special lures can be purchased from bait shops in Lagras or at the general store in Valentine.\n\nNext, choose the right location. Fish are abundant in rivers, lakes, and coastal areas. Some of the best fishing spots include the Dakota River near Valentine, O’Creagh’s Run in the Grizzlies East, and the Kamassa River in Lemoyne. Each location has unique fish species, so plan accordingly. For example, O’Creagh’s Run is ideal for catching Salmon, while the Kamassa River is great for Catfish.\n\nWhen fishing, pay attention to the game’s mechanics. Cast your line into the water and wait for a fish to bite. You’ll feel a vibration or see the rod tip dip when a fish is hooked. Reel in the fish by rotating the right stick (on consoles) or holding the appropriate key (on PC) while keeping tension on the line. Avoid reeling too quickly, as this can cause the line to break. Instead, alternate between reeling and letting the fish tire itself out.\n\nOne common challenge is catching larger fish, which require more skill and patience. For these, use special lures and ensure your line is strong enough. If the fish struggles too much, release the tension briefly to avoid breaking the line. Additionally, fishing at dawn or dusk can increase your chances of success, as fish are more active during these times.\n\nOnce you’ve caught your fish, you can use them for crafting. For example, Salmon and Trout are used to craft potent health tonics, while smaller fish like Bluegill can be used for bait. To maximize your yield, always aim for perfect carcasses. Use the right bait and ensure you don’t damage the fish during the catch. Perfect fish carcasses provide more materials and sell for higher prices.\n\nFinally, consider upgrading your satchel to carry more fish. The Legend of the East Satchel, crafted by Pearson at camp, allows you to carry up to 99 of each item, including fish. This is especially useful if you plan to stockpile materials for crafting or selling.\n\nIn summary, hunting fish for crafting materials in Red Dead Redemption 2 requires the right tools, locations, and techniques. Use the appropriate bait, fish in optimal locations, and master the reeling mechanics to catch high-quality fish. With patience and practice, you’ll have all the materials you need for crafting and more.