What are the best locations to hunt for valuable pelts in Red Dead Online?

Hunting for valuable pelts in Red Dead Online is one of the most reliable ways to earn money and gold. To maximize your profits, you need to focus on high-value animals, use the right tools, and hunt in the best locations. The quality of the pelt depends on the animal''s condition, which is determined by the weapon you use and how cleanly you kill the animal. Always aim for a clean headshot with the appropriate weapon to ensure a perfect pelt.\n\nOne of the best locations for hunting valuable pelts is Big Valley, located in West Elizabeth. This area is teeming with deer, elk, and pronghorns, all of which yield high-quality pelts. Use a rifle with a scope, such as the Rolling Block Rifle or Carcano Rifle, to take down these animals from a distance. For smaller animals like rabbits and raccoons, a Varmint Rifle is ideal. Always study the animal first to determine its quality and ensure you’re targeting a three-star animal for the best pelt.\n\nAnother excellent hunting spot is the Heartlands in New Hanover. This open grassland is home to herds of deer, pronghorns, and bison. Bison pelts are particularly valuable, but they require a powerful weapon like the Bolt-Action Rifle to take down cleanly. Be cautious when hunting bison, as they are tough and can charge if provoked. The Heartlands also has a high spawn rate for smaller animals like foxes and coyotes, which can be hunted with a Repeater or Bow for perfect pelts.\n\nFor players looking to hunt predators, the Grizzlies and Roanoke Ridge are ideal locations. These areas are home to cougars, wolves, and bears, all of which yield highly valuable pelts. Cougars are especially lucrative, but they are dangerous and require quick reflexes. Use a rifle or a Bow with Improved Arrows to take them down. Wolves often travel in packs, so be prepared to defend yourself. Bears are tough to kill, but a well-placed shot with a high-powered rifle will do the trick.\n\nTo improve your hunting efficiency, consider investing in the Trader Role, which unlocks the Hunting Wagon. This wagon allows you to store multiple large pelts and carcasses, making it easier to transport your haul back to camp or a butcher. Additionally, the Legendary Animal missions from the Naturalist Role can provide rare pelts that sell for a premium. However, these missions are more challenging and require advanced preparation.\n\nA common challenge in hunting is dealing with predators or other players interfering with your hunt. To avoid predators, stay alert and listen for growls or howls. Use Dead Eye to mark and take down multiple threats quickly. If other players are causing trouble, consider switching to a solo session or using defensive mode to minimize interruptions. Always carry plenty of ammo and healing items to stay prepared for unexpected encounters.\n\nFinally, remember to skin your kills immediately to avoid losing the pelt if the carcass despawns. Store pelts on your horse or in the Hunting Wagon, and sell them to a butcher or use them for crafting at your camp. By focusing on high-value animals, using the right tools, and hunting in the best locations, you can maximize your earnings and become a master hunter in Red Dead Online.\n\nPractical Tip: Always carry a variety of weapons to handle different animals. For example, keep a Varmint Rifle for small game, a Repeater for medium-sized animals, and a high-powered rifle for large or dangerous prey. This ensures you’re prepared for any hunting opportunity that arises.