What’s the best strategy for hunting cougars without getting killed?
Hunting cougars in Red Dead Redemption 2 can be one of the most challenging tasks due to their speed, stealth, and lethality. To successfully hunt cougars without getting killed, you need to prepare thoroughly, understand their behavior, and use the right tools and strategies. Here’s a detailed guide to help you master cougar hunting.\n\nFirst, equip yourself with the right weapons. A rifle with high damage output, such as the Bolt Action Rifle or Springfield Rifle, is essential. These weapons can deliver a clean kill shot, which is crucial for preserving the quality of the cougar pelt. Always use Express or High-Velocity ammo for maximum damage. Additionally, carry a bow with Improved Arrows as a backup, as it’s silent and effective for stealthy kills.\n\nNext, choose the right location. Cougars are most commonly found in the forests and rocky areas of West Elizabeth, particularly around the area north of Owanjila Lake and south of the trapper’s location near the western edge of the map. Another hotspot is the area east of Annesburg in Roanoke Ridge. These locations are known for frequent cougar spawns, so scout them carefully.\n\nBefore engaging, use your Eagle Eye ability to track the cougar. Look for fresh tracks, droppings, or claw marks on trees. Cougars are ambush predators, so they often hide in dense foliage or behind rocks. Move slowly and keep your weapon ready. If you hear a low growl or see the red dot on your mini-map, the cougar is nearby and preparing to attack.\n\nWhen the cougar charges, stay calm. Use Dead Eye to target its head or heart for a clean kill. If you miss the shot, the cougar will pounce and deal massive damage. To avoid this, keep your horse nearby and be ready to mount and retreat if necessary. Horses can outrun cougars, giving you time to reposition and take another shot.\n\nOne common challenge is the cougar’s ability to sneak up on you. To counter this, always face the direction of the cougar’s last known location and use your camera to scan the area. If you’re on foot, crouch to reduce noise and make it harder for the cougar to detect you. If you’re on horseback, keep your horse calm by soothing it regularly, as a spooked horse can throw you off and leave you vulnerable.\n\nAfter successfully hunting a cougar, skin it immediately to collect the pelt and other materials. Store the pelt on your horse and take it to the trapper or camp to craft valuable items like the Cougar Range Gloves or the Legendary Cougar Vest. Remember, a perfect pelt requires a clean kill with the right weapon, so aim carefully.\n\nFinally, always be prepared for unexpected encounters. Carry health tonics, such as Potent Health Cure or Bitters, to recover quickly if you’re injured. Equip yourself with a reinforced lasso or a shotgun for close-range defense if things go wrong. With patience, preparation, and practice, you’ll master cougar hunting and avoid becoming prey.\n\nIn summary, the best strategy for hunting cougars involves using high-damage rifles, scouting the right locations, tracking carefully, and staying alert during encounters. Use Dead Eye for precision shots, keep your horse nearby for quick escapes, and always aim for clean kills to preserve pelt quality. With these tips, you’ll be able to hunt cougars effectively and safely.