What’s the best way to hunt cougars for perfect pelts?

Hunting cougars for perfect pelts in Red Dead Redemption 2 requires careful preparation, the right tools, and knowledge of their behavior. Cougars are one of the most dangerous predators in the game, so approaching them with a solid strategy is essential. To start, you’ll need a weapon that can deliver a clean kill without damaging the pelt. The best weapon for this is the Rolling Block Rifle or the Carcano Rifle, both of which are high-powered rifles that can kill a cougar with a single headshot. Alternatively, a Bow with Improved Arrows can also work if you prefer stealth.\n\nCougars are most commonly found in specific regions of the map. The best locations to hunt them are near Roanoke Ridge, north of Annesburg, and along the western edge of Big Valley, near the trapper’s location. These areas are known for frequent cougar spawns, especially during the early morning or late evening. Use your Eagle Eye ability to track their movements and look for fresh tracks or clues like scratches on trees or carcasses.\n\nWhen hunting cougars, always be on high alert. They are fast, aggressive, and will attack on sight if they detect you. To avoid being ambushed, stay on your horse and keep your weapon ready. If you’re on foot, use cover like rocks or trees to break their line of sight. If a cougar charges, aim for the head and fire quickly. A well-placed shot will drop it instantly, preserving the pelt’s quality.\n\nOne common challenge is dealing with the cougar’s unpredictable behavior. If you’re struggling to find one, try setting up bait. Predator Bait can be crafted using animal fat and herbs, and placing it in a cougar’s territory can lure them out. However, be prepared for a quick fight, as they will attack as soon as they spot you. Another tip is to use Dead Eye to slow down time and ensure a precise shot, especially if the cougar is moving quickly.\n\nAfter successfully killing a cougar, approach the carcass carefully. Use your knife to skin it, and make sure to store the pelt on your horse. Perfect cougar pelts are highly valuable and can be sold to the trapper or used for crafting high-tier items like the Cougar Saddle or the Legendary Cougar Garment Set. If you’re carrying other pelts, prioritize the cougar pelt, as it’s one of the rarest and most valuable in the game.\n\nFinally, remember that cougars are a limited resource. They don’t respawn immediately, so if you’re farming for multiple pelts, you may need to wait a few in-game days or travel to a different region. Patience and persistence are key to mastering cougar hunting. With the right approach, you’ll be able to consistently obtain perfect pelts and make the most of this challenging but rewarding activity in Red Dead Redemption 2.