How do I hunt fish for perfect carcasses and skins?

Hunting fish for perfect carcasses and skins in Red Dead Redemption 2 requires a combination of the right tools, techniques, and knowledge of the game''s mechanics. Fish are unique in that they are considered carcasses rather than pelts, but the principles of obtaining a perfect quality remain the same. To start, you''ll need the appropriate fishing equipment, which includes a fishing rod and the correct bait or lure for the type of fish you''re targeting. These items can be purchased from general stores or obtained through story progression.\n\nBefore heading out to fish, ensure you have the right bait or lure for the fish species you want to catch. Different fish are attracted to different types of bait. For example, Lake Lures work best for larger fish like salmon and trout, while worms or crickets are ideal for smaller fish like bluegill and perch. You can purchase bait from general stores or craft it using materials found in the world. Equip the bait or lure by opening your satchel, selecting it, and attaching it to your fishing rod.\n\nNext, locate a suitable fishing spot. Fish are found in various bodies of water, including rivers, lakes, and ponds. Some of the best fishing locations include O''Creagh''s Run for salmon, Dakota River for trout, and Flat Iron Lake for larger fish like sturgeon. Use your Eagle Eye ability to spot fish in the water. This will help you identify the species and determine if it''s worth your time to catch it. Remember, only certain fish species yield perfect carcasses, so focus on those.\n\nOnce you''ve found a good spot, cast your line into the water. Aim for areas where fish are visibly swimming or where ripples appear on the surface. When a fish bites, you''ll feel a vibration in your controller (if playing on console) or see a prompt on the screen. Reel in the fish by rotating the right stick or pressing the appropriate button, depending on your platform. Be patient and avoid reeling too quickly, as this can cause the line to break.\n\nAfter catching the fish, inspect it to determine its quality. Fish quality is determined by the method used to catch them, and using the correct bait or lure ensures a higher chance of obtaining a perfect carcass. If the fish is of poor or good quality, you can release it back into the water and try again. Perfect fish carcasses are valuable for crafting, cooking, or selling, so aim for these whenever possible.\n\nOne common challenge is dealing with larger fish, which can be more difficult to reel in. To overcome this, ensure your fishing line is in good condition and avoid applying too much tension. If the fish starts to struggle, release the tension slightly by letting go of the reel button or stick. This will prevent the line from breaking and give you a better chance of landing the fish.\n\nFinally, store your perfect fish carcasses on your horse or in your satchel. Larger fish, like sturgeon or muskie, must be stored on your horse, while smaller fish can be carried in your satchel. Selling fish to butchers or using them in recipes can provide valuable resources and income. For example, perfect salmon can be used to craft potent predator bait, while trout can be cooked into meals that restore health and stamina.\n\nIn summary, hunting fish for perfect carcasses in Red Dead Redemption 2 involves using the right bait or lure, locating ideal fishing spots, and mastering the reeling mechanics. Focus on high-value species like salmon, trout, and sturgeon, and always aim for perfect quality. With practice and patience, you''ll become a skilled angler and reap the rewards of your efforts.