What’s the best way to earn money early in the game?

Earning money early in Red Dead Redemption 2 is crucial for upgrading your gear, purchasing supplies, and progressing through the game. The best way to accumulate wealth in the early stages involves a mix of hunting, looting, and completing missions. Here’s a detailed guide to help you get started.\n\nFirst, focus on hunting and selling animal pelts. Hunting is one of the most reliable ways to earn money early on. Animals like deer, boars, and rabbits are abundant in the wilderness around Horseshoe Overlook, your first camp location. Use a bow or a rifle with regular ammo to ensure the pelts remain in perfect condition, as higher-quality pelts fetch better prices. Sell these pelts to the Trapper or at general stores in towns like Valentine or Strawberry. For example, a perfect deer pelt can sell for around $10, which is a significant amount early in the game.\n\nNext, loot everything you can. After gunfights or ambushes, search the bodies of enemies for valuables like jewelry, cash, and consumables. These items can be sold to fences, which are unlocked after completing the mission "The Spines of America" in Chapter 2. Fences pay well for stolen goods, and you can find them in locations like Emerald Ranch or Saint Denis. Additionally, explore abandoned cabins and homesteads for hidden treasures. For instance, the abandoned cabin near Valentine contains a lockbox with valuable items.\n\nCompleting story missions and side activities also provides a steady income. Early missions like "Money Lending and Other Sins" in Chapter 2 reward you with cash and gold bars. Gold bars are particularly valuable, as each one sells for $500 at a fence. Another lucrative activity is treasure hunting. Obtain treasure maps by looting enemies or purchasing them from strangers. Follow the clues to find hidden gold bars or cash. For example, the Jack Hall Gang treasure map, found near Flatneck Station, leads to a treasure worth over $1,000.\n\nFishing is another underrated way to earn money. Once you unlock the fishing rod during the mission "A Fisher of Men" in Chapter 2, head to rivers or lakes to catch fish like salmon or trout. These fish can be sold to general stores or butchers for a decent profit. For example, a sockeye salmon sells for $2.50, and you can carry multiple fish at once. This method is especially useful if you’re low on ammunition or prefer a more peaceful activity.\n\nFinally, consider robbing trains or stagecoaches for quick cash. While this method carries a higher risk of attracting law enforcement, it can be highly profitable if done correctly. To minimize risk, wear a mask and commit the robbery in a remote area. For example, robbing a train near Riggs Station can yield hundreds of dollars in cash and valuables. Just be prepared to escape quickly and avoid being identified.\n\nIn summary, the best way to earn money early in Red Dead Redemption 2 is to combine hunting, looting, treasure hunting, and completing missions. Focus on high-value activities like selling perfect pelts, finding treasure, and robbing trains while managing your risks. With these strategies, you’ll quickly build up your funds and be well-prepared for the challenges ahead.