What’s the best way to hunt and sell pelts for profit in the early game?

Hunting and selling pelts is one of the most reliable ways to earn money in Red Dead Online, especially in the early game. To maximize your profits, you need to understand the game mechanics, know where to hunt, and how to prepare your kills for sale. Start by equipping a Varmint Rifle and a Bow with Small Game Arrows, as these are essential for hunting smaller animals like rabbits, raccoons, and birds without damaging their pelts. Larger animals like deer and elk require a Rifle or a Repeater for clean kills.\n\nBegin your hunting journey in areas with abundant wildlife, such as the Heartlands or Big Valley. These regions are teeming with deer, pronghorns, and other valuable animals. Use Eagle Eye (activated by pressing both thumbsticks) to track animals and identify their quality. Aim for three-star animals, as they yield perfect pelts, which sell for the highest prices. Always aim for headshots to ensure a clean kill and preserve the pelt''s quality.\n\nOnce you''ve hunted an animal, skin it immediately to collect the pelt and other materials like meat and feathers. Store the pelts on your horse, but be mindful of your inventory limit. You can carry one large pelt (like a bear or elk) and multiple medium pelts (like deer or wolves) on your horse. Smaller pelts and carcasses can be stowed on the sides of your horse. If you''re hunting birds or small game, store their carcasses whole, as they often sell for more than their individual parts.\n\nTo sell your pelts, head to a Trapper or a Butcher. The Butcher is more accessible in the early game and can be found in towns like Valentine, Strawberry, or Rhodes. Approach the Butcher and interact with them to sell your pelts, carcasses, and other animal parts. Keep in mind that pelts from legendary animals or rare species fetch higher prices, so prioritize hunting these if you encounter them.\n\nOne common challenge is managing your inventory and horse storage. If your horse is full, consider hunting smaller animals like birds or rabbits, as their pelts and carcasses take up less space. Additionally, always keep an eye out for predators like wolves or cougars, as they can attack you while you''re hunting. Carry a powerful weapon like a Repeater or Shotgun for self-defense.\n\nFor new players, focus on hunting in safe areas like the Heartlands or Great Plains, where predators are less common. Experienced players can venture into more dangerous territories like Roanoke Ridge or Grizzlies East for higher-value animals. Always carry a Horse Reviver in case your horse is injured during a hunt, as losing your horse can disrupt your hunting routine.\n\nFinally, consider investing in the Trader Role once you''ve earned enough money. This role allows you to turn pelts into goods and sell them in bulk for even greater profits. Until then, hunting and selling pelts to the Butcher is a steady and reliable way to build your wealth in Red Dead Online.