How do I unlock the "Survivalist" achievement by catching all fish species?

To unlock the ''Survivalist'' achievement in Red Dead Redemption 2, you must catch one of every fish species in the game. There are 13 unique fish species scattered across the map, and catching them all requires patience, the right equipment, and knowledge of their specific locations. This guide will walk you through the process step-by-step, including tips for overcoming common challenges.\n\nFirst, you need to acquire a fishing rod. This is unlocked during Chapter 2 of the story mission ''A Fisher of Men,'' where Arthur learns to fish with Jack Marston. Once you have the rod, you’ll also need to purchase or craft bait. Different fish species require specific bait types: crickets, bread, cheese, and worms are common, while special lures like the Lake, River, and Swamp Lures are needed for larger fish. These lures can be purchased from bait shops or crafted using the right materials.\n\nEach fish species has a preferred habitat. For example, the Bluegill is commonly found in shallow waters like Flat Iron Lake, while the Muskie prefers deeper areas like Lake Isabella. Use the in-game map to identify bodies of water and match them to the fish you’re targeting. Pay attention to the time of day and weather, as some fish are more active during specific conditions. For instance, the Channel Catfish is easier to catch at night.\n\nWhen fishing, cast your line into the water and wait for a bite. Once a fish takes the bait, press the appropriate button to hook it. Then, use the left stick to reel it in while keeping tension on the line. Avoid reeling too quickly, as this can cause the line to break. For larger fish like the Legendary Fish, this process can take several minutes, so be patient and steady.\n\nOne of the trickiest fish to catch is the Legendary Bluegill, found in Lake Owanjila. This fish requires the Special Lake Lure, which can be purchased from the bait shop in Lagras. Another challenging species is the Legendary Longnose Gar, found in the swampy waters of Lagras. Use the Special Swamp Lure and cast your line near the shore for the best results.\n\nTo maximize your efficiency, focus on completing the ''A Fisher of Fish'' side mission, which tasks you with catching all Legendary Fish. This mission not only helps you track your progress but also rewards you with unique items. Additionally, consider upgrading your fishing rod and lures to improve your chances of success.\n\nFinally, keep a checklist of the fish you’ve caught to avoid missing any species. The game does not provide an in-game tracker for this achievement, so manual tracking is essential. Once you’ve caught all 13 species, the ''Survivalist'' achievement will unlock, marking your mastery of fishing in Red Dead Redemption 2.