What are the best tips for completing the "Survivalist" challenge?

The Survivalist challenge in Red Dead Redemption 2 is one of the most rewarding yet demanding tasks in the game. It requires players to hunt, fish, and craft specific items while surviving in the wilderness. This challenge is divided into 10 ranks, each with unique objectives. To complete it efficiently, you need to understand the game mechanics, plan your approach, and utilize the right tools and locations.\n\nFor the first rank, you must catch a Bluegill fish. Bluegills are commonly found in freshwater areas like the Dakota River near Horseshoe Overlook or the Kamassa River in Lemoyne. Use a fishing rod with bread or corn as bait. Stand near the shore or on a dock, cast your line, and wait for the fish to bite. Reel it in slowly to avoid breaking the line. This is a great way to practice fishing mechanics early in the game.\n\nThe second rank requires you to craft a Herbivore Bait. To do this, gather materials like raspberries and oregano, which are abundant in the Heartlands and near Valentine. Open your crafting menu, select the bait, and combine the ingredients. Herbivore Bait is useful for attracting deer, elk, and other herbivores, making it a valuable tool for hunting challenges later on.\n\nRank three tasks you with killing five animals with a bow. The bow is a silent weapon, ideal for hunting without scaring other animals. Head to areas like Big Valley or Cumberland Forest, where deer and rabbits are plentiful. Use Dead Eye to target vital organs for clean kills, which yield higher-quality pelts. This step also helps you practice precision and stealth, which are essential for later challenges.\n\nFor rank four, you need to pluck three different types of small birds. Small birds like sparrows, robins, and blue jays can be found in wooded areas or near water sources. Use a Varmint Rifle or small game arrows to avoid damaging the carcasses. The Heartlands and Roanoke Ridge are excellent locations for this task. Be patient, as small birds can be tricky to spot and shoot.\n\nRank five involves crafting a Poison Arrow. To craft this, you need an arrow, a flight feather, and Oleander Sage. Oleander Sage grows near the Kamassa River in Bayou Nwa. Combine these items in your crafting menu. Poison Arrows are highly effective for hunting large predators like bears or cougars, as they deal damage over time.\n\nRank six requires you to catch a fish that weighs at least 5 lbs. Head to larger bodies of water like Flat Iron Lake or Owanjila Lake. Use a special lake lure or river lure, depending on the location. Cast your line into deeper waters and wait for a larger fish like a Muskie or Lake Sturgeon to bite. Reel it in carefully to avoid losing it.\n\nFor rank seven, you must kill eight small game animals with small game arrows. Small game arrows are crafted using arrows, flight feathers, and shotgun shells. Use these arrows to hunt squirrels, chipmunks, and small birds. Aim for headshots to ensure clean kills and preserve the quality of the carcasses.\n\nRank eight tasks you with crafting a Predator Bait. Gather materials like raw meat and berries, then craft the bait in your menu. Predator Bait is useful for attracting wolves, cougars, and bears. Place the bait in areas like Tall Trees or Grizzlies East, then hide and wait for predators to approach.\n\nRank nine requires you to catch three fish without using a fishing rod. This can be done by using dynamite or a bow with improved arrows. Head to a shallow river or lake, throw dynamite into the water, or shoot fish with your bow. Be cautious, as this method can alert nearby enemies or wildlife.\n\nFinally, rank ten tasks you with killing five flying birds with small game arrows. This is one of the most challenging tasks, as birds are fast and difficult to hit. Use Dead Eye to slow down time and aim carefully. The Dakota River and Roanoke Ridge are good locations for this task.\n\nTo complete the Survivalist challenge efficiently, always carry the necessary tools like a bow, fishing rod, and crafting materials. Plan your routes to maximize resource gathering and minimize travel time. Use Dead Eye to improve accuracy, especially for small or fast-moving targets. Finally, be patient and persistent, as some tasks may require multiple attempts.\n\nPractical tips: Always save your game before attempting challenging tasks like hunting predators or fishing for large fish. This way, if something goes wrong, you can reload and try again without losing progress. Additionally, upgrade your satchel to carry more materials, as this will save you time during the challenge.