How do you unlock the camp’s boat for fishing?

Unlocking the camp’s boat for fishing in Red Dead Redemption 2 is a valuable upgrade that enhances your ability to explore waterways and catch fish more efficiently. To unlock the boat, you must progress through the game’s story and upgrade your camp through the Ledger system. The boat becomes available after completing specific story missions and contributing to camp upgrades.\n\nFirst, you need to reach Chapter 2 of the game’s story. This is when the camp upgrades become accessible. At this point, you’ll gain access to the Ledger, a book located near Dutch’s tent in the camp. The Ledger allows you to purchase upgrades for the camp, including the boat. However, before you can buy the boat, you must first unlock the ability to use the Ledger by completing the mission ''Money Lending and Other Sins - I,'' which is given by Leopold Strauss.\n\nOnce the Ledger is unlocked, you’ll need to contribute funds to the camp’s coffers. The boat upgrade is part of the ''Leisure and Entertainment'' section of the Ledger. To purchase the boat, you must first buy the ''Scout Fire'' upgrade, which costs $225. After this, the boat becomes available for $450. Ensure you have enough money saved up, as these upgrades can be costly early in the game.\n\nTo earn money for these upgrades, consider hunting and selling pelts, completing side missions, or looting enemies. For example, hunting deer or elk in the Heartlands can yield valuable pelts that fetch a good price at the butcher in Valentine. Additionally, completing treasure hunts, such as the Jack Hall Gang treasure map, can provide a significant cash boost.\n\nOnce the boat is purchased, it will spawn at the camp’s water access point, typically near the shore of the lake or river where your camp is located. In Chapter 2, the camp is at Horseshoe Overlook, and the boat will appear near the water below the cliffs. You can use the boat to fish in deeper waters, which often contain larger and rarer fish like Muskie or Lake Sturgeon.\n\nA common challenge players face is finding the boat after purchasing it. If the boat doesn’t appear, try saving and reloading the game or leaving the camp and returning. The boat should respawn. Additionally, ensure you’re looking in the correct location near the water’s edge.\n\nUsing the boat for fishing is straightforward. Approach the boat and press the prompt to enter it. Once aboard, equip your fishing rod and cast your line into the water. The boat allows you to access areas that are otherwise unreachable on foot, increasing your chances of catching high-value fish. For example, rowing to the middle of Flat Iron Lake can yield legendary fish like the Legendary Bluegill.\n\nIn summary, unlocking the camp’s boat requires progressing to Chapter 2, completing the ''Money Lending and Other Sins - I'' mission, and purchasing the necessary upgrades through the Ledger. Save money by hunting and completing side activities, and use the boat to explore waterways and catch rare fish. This upgrade is a worthwhile investment for both new players and experienced gamers looking to enhance their fishing and exploration capabilities in Red Dead Redemption 2.