How do you unlock the ability to craft special tonics using animal materials?

To unlock the ability to craft special tonics using animal materials in Red Dead Redemption 2, you must first progress through the game''s story and unlock the crafting system. This is tied to the camp upgrades and the Trapper, a key NPC who allows you to craft unique items using animal pelts and parts. The process involves hunting specific animals, gathering materials, and accessing crafting recipes.\n\nFirst, you need to unlock the crafting system by progressing through Chapter 2 of the story. During this chapter, you will gain access to the camp ledger, which allows you to upgrade Dutch''s camp. One of the first upgrades you should prioritize is the Leather Working Tools, purchased from the ledger for $225. This upgrade unlocks the ability to craft satchels, which are essential for carrying more items, including animal materials needed for tonics.\n\nNext, you must hunt animals to gather materials. Each animal provides specific parts, such as pelts, feathers, or claws, which are used in crafting. For example, to craft the Potent Predator Bait, you need a Perfect Deer Pelt and a Perfect Fish. To ensure you get high-quality materials, use the appropriate weapon for each animal. For deer, a rifle with a headshot will yield a perfect pelt. For fish, use a fishing rod with the correct bait.\n\nOnce you have the materials, visit the Trapper, who can be found in various locations such as Saint Denis, Riggs Station, or near Strawberry. The Trapper allows you to craft special tonics and other items using animal materials. For example, the Potent Health Cure requires a Perfect Buck Pelt and Yarrow. These tonics provide significant health restoration and are invaluable during tough missions or encounters.\n\nTo craft tonics, you also need to unlock the recipes. Some recipes are available by default, while others require you to purchase pamphlets from Fences, which are scattered across the map. For example, the Potent Miracle Tonic recipe can be bought from the Fence in Rhodes for $50. These pamphlets provide detailed instructions on how to craft advanced tonics using rare animal materials.\n\nA common challenge is finding specific animals or materials. For example, the Perfect Moose Pelt is rare and can be difficult to obtain. To increase your chances, use bait like Herbivore Bait in areas where moose are known to spawn, such as near Lake Isabella or the northern regions of the map. Patience and persistence are key, as some animals only appear under specific conditions or times of day.\n\nFinally, always ensure your satchel has enough space to carry materials. Upgrading your satchel through Pearson at camp is crucial. The Legend of the East Satchel, for example, allows you to carry 99 of each item, making it easier to gather and store materials for crafting. This is especially useful for players who want to craft multiple tonics or other items.\n\nIn summary, unlocking the ability to craft special tonics using animal materials requires progressing through the story, upgrading your camp, hunting specific animals, and visiting the Trapper or Fence. By following these steps and using the right tools and strategies, you can create powerful tonics to enhance your gameplay experience.