What’s the best bait to use for hunting cougars for crafting materials?

Hunting cougars in Red Dead Redemption 2 is essential for crafting high-quality items like the Legend of the East Satchel, which requires perfect cougar pelts. To maximize your chances of success, you need to use the right bait and understand the game mechanics involved in hunting these elusive predators.\n\nCougars are most commonly found in specific regions of the map, such as the forests west of Strawberry near the trapper’s location, and the area north of Annesburg in Roanoke Ridge. These locations are ideal for setting up your hunt. Cougars are aggressive and will attack if they detect you, so it’s crucial to approach with caution.\n\nThe best bait to use for hunting cougars is Predator Bait. This bait is specifically designed to attract carnivorous animals like cougars, wolves, and bears. You can craft Predator Bait using one piece of raw meat (such as venison or beef) and one piece of animal fat. Animal fat can be obtained by skinning animals like boars, bears, or ducks. Once crafted, place the bait in an area where cougars are known to roam.\n\nTo set up your hunt effectively, find a high vantage point near the bait location. Use your binoculars or a scoped rifle to survey the area from a safe distance. Cougars are stealthy and will often approach silently, so keep your ears open for their distinctive growl. Once the cougar is lured by the bait, aim for a clean headshot using a rifle like the Bolt Action Rifle or Springfield Rifle. These weapons are powerful enough to kill the cougar in one shot, ensuring the pelt remains in perfect condition.\n\nOne common challenge is the cougar’s aggressive behavior. If you’re too close, the cougar will charge and attack, potentially ruining the pelt or even killing you. To avoid this, always maintain a safe distance and use cover to stay hidden. If the cougar detects you, it’s better to retreat and reset the hunt rather than risk a messy encounter.\n\nAnother tip is to use Dead Eye mode to ensure a precise shot. Dead Eye allows you to slow down time and target specific areas, such as the head or heart, for a clean kill. This is especially useful when dealing with fast-moving predators like cougars. Additionally, make sure your weapon is clean and well-maintained, as a damaged weapon can reduce the quality of the pelt.\n\nFor players who struggle to find cougars, consider using the Potent Predator Bait, which has a stronger scent and can attract cougars from a greater distance. This bait requires one piece of raw meat, one animal fat, and one Oregano or Thyme. Potent Predator Bait is more effective but also more resource-intensive to craft, so use it sparingly.\n\nFinally, always skin the cougar immediately after the kill to obtain the pelt and other crafting materials. Store the pelt on your horse and take it to a trapper or Pearson at camp to craft valuable items. Remember that cougars are rare, so patience and preparation are key to a successful hunt.\n\nIn summary, use Predator Bait or Potent Predator Bait to lure cougars, maintain a safe distance, and aim for a clean headshot with a high-powered rifle. By following these steps, you’ll be able to hunt cougars efficiently and gather the materials needed for crafting.