What are the best hunting spots for beginners in Red Dead Online?

Hunting is one of the most profitable and beginner-friendly activities in Red Dead Online. It allows players to earn money and materials for crafting while exploring the vast open world. For beginners, choosing the right hunting spots is crucial to maximize efficiency and avoid unnecessary risks. Below, we’ll cover the best hunting locations, game mechanics, and tips to help you get started.\n\nOne of the best beginner-friendly hunting spots is the Heartlands, located in New Hanover. This area is teeming with deer, pronghorns, and rabbits, which are easy to hunt and provide valuable pelts and meat. The flat terrain makes it easy to spot animals from a distance, and the lack of dense forests reduces the risk of predators like wolves or cougars. To hunt here, equip a Varmint Rifle for small game like rabbits and a Bolt Action Rifle for larger animals like deer. Always aim for headshots to preserve the quality of the pelts.\n\nAnother excellent location is Big Valley, west of Strawberry in West Elizabeth. This area is known for its abundance of elk, deer, and even the occasional bear. The open fields and streams make it easy to track animals, and the nearby town of Strawberry provides a quick place to sell your pelts and meat. Use a Rolling Block Rifle or Carcano Rifle for larger animals like elk, as they require more firepower. Be cautious of bears in this area; they can be dangerous if you’re unprepared. Always carry a shotgun or repeater for self-defense.\n\nFor players looking to hunt birds, the Bayou Nwa region near Saint Denis is ideal. This area is home to herons, spoonbills, and egrets, which drop valuable feathers used for crafting. Use a Varmint Rifle to hunt these birds, as it’s the most effective weapon for small, fast-moving targets. Be mindful of alligators in the area; they can attack if you get too close. Stay on your horse and keep an eye on the minimap for red dots indicating nearby threats.\n\nWhen hunting, always pay attention to the quality of the animal. Animals are rated from one to three stars, with three-star animals providing the best pelts and materials. Use the right weapon for each animal to avoid damaging the pelt. For example, a Varmint Rifle is perfect for rabbits and birds, while a Bow with Improved Arrows is ideal for larger game like deer or elk. Additionally, use Eagle Eye to track animals more effectively. This ability highlights animal trails and makes it easier to locate your prey.\n\nOne common challenge for beginners is transporting multiple carcasses. To maximize your haul, carry one large carcass on your horse and lasso another to drag behind you. Small animals like rabbits and birds can be stored in your satchel, so prioritize hunting these if you’re low on storage space. If you’re hunting far from a town, consider setting up a camp to store pelts and carcasses temporarily.\n\nFinally, always be prepared for unexpected encounters. Other players may try to steal your haul, so avoid highly populated areas like Valentine or Blackwater when carrying valuable pelts. If you’re playing in a defensive mode, you’ll reduce the risk of being targeted by hostile players. Additionally, stock up on ammo and health items before heading out, as predators and rival hunters can pose a threat.\n\nIn summary, the Heartlands, Big Valley, and Bayou Nwa are the best hunting spots for beginners in Red Dead Online. Use the right weapons for each animal, aim for headshots, and always be aware of your surroundings. With these tips, you’ll quickly become a skilled hunter and earn a steady income in the game.