What’s the most profitable way to hunt legendary animals?

Hunting legendary animals in Red Dead Redemption 2 is one of the most profitable activities in the game, but it requires preparation, strategy, and knowledge of game mechanics. Legendary animals yield unique pelts and parts that can be sold for high prices or used to craft valuable items. To maximize profits, you need to hunt efficiently and ensure you don’t damage the pelts.\n\nFirst, you must unlock the ability to hunt legendary animals. This becomes available after completing Chapter 1 and the mission ''Eastward Bound'' in Chapter 2. Once unlocked, legendary animals will appear on your map as question marks. These animals are scattered across specific regions, such as the Legendary Buck in West Elizabeth or the Legendary Bear in the Grizzlies. Each legendary animal has a unique spawn location, so consult your in-game map or online guides for precise locations.\n\nBefore heading out, prepare your gear. Use a rifle or bow with improved arrows to ensure a clean kill. The Rolling Block Rifle or Carcano Rifle are excellent choices for long-range shots. Avoid using explosives or shotguns, as they can damage the pelt and reduce its value. Additionally, stock up on health tonics, predator bait, and scent cover lotion to avoid detection by the animal or other predators in the area.\n\nWhen you arrive at the legendary animal’s location, use Eagle Eye to track its trail. Legendary animals often leave golden clues, such as fur, droppings, or scratches on trees. Follow these clues carefully, as they will lead you to the animal. Be cautious, as legendary animals are more aggressive and dangerous than regular wildlife. For example, the Legendary Bear can charge at you, while the Legendary Cougar is fast and stealthy.\n\nOnce you locate the animal, aim for a clean headshot to preserve the pelt’s quality. If you’re using a bow, aim for the heart or lungs for a quick kill. After the animal is down, skin it immediately to collect the pelt and other valuable parts, such as fangs, claws, or horns. These items are automatically stored in your satchel, so you don’t need to worry about losing them.\n\nNext, take the pelt to a trapper or a fence to sell or craft items. Trappers are located in specific spots, such as Saint Denis, Riggs Station, or near Strawberry. They offer unique outfits and gear crafted from legendary pelts, which can fetch high prices. Fences, on the other hand, buy animal parts like teeth and claws, which can be used to craft trinkets that provide permanent bonuses, such as increased health or stamina.\n\nOne common challenge is dealing with other predators or hostile NPCs while hunting. For example, the Legendary Panther is surrounded by regular panthers, which can attack you unexpectedly. To avoid this, use predator bait to distract them or climb onto a rock or tree to gain a safe vantage point. Additionally, always save your game before engaging a legendary animal to avoid losing progress if something goes wrong.\n\nFinally, consider the long-term value of legendary animal parts. While selling pelts and parts directly can earn you a quick profit, crafting trinkets or outfits can provide ongoing benefits. For example, the Legendary Buck Antler Trinket increases the quality of skinned animals, making it easier to obtain perfect pelts for other hunts. This creates a cycle of increased profitability over time.\n\nIn summary, the most profitable way to hunt legendary animals involves preparation, clean kills, and strategic use of the pelts and parts. By following these steps, you can maximize your earnings and enjoy the unique rewards that legendary animals offer.