What’s the best way to hunt from horseback in RDR2?

Hunting from horseback in Red Dead Redemption 2 is an efficient way to gather resources, earn money, and complete challenges. To start, you need a reliable horse with good stamina and handling. Horses like the Arabian or Missouri Fox Trotter are excellent choices due to their speed and responsiveness. Ensure your horse is well-bonded (at least level 2 or higher) to improve its calmness around predators and gunfire.\n\nBefore heading out, equip the right weapons. A bow or a rifle with a scope is ideal for hunting. The Varmint Rifle is perfect for small game like rabbits and raccoons, while the Rolling Block Rifle or Carcano Rifle is better for larger animals like deer or elk. Always carry enough ammo and consider using Dead Eye to improve accuracy. Dead Eye allows you to mark multiple targets or focus on critical areas for clean kills, which preserves the quality of pelts.\n\nWhen hunting, approach animals slowly to avoid spooking them. Use the ''Call'' feature to calm your horse and keep it steady. If you’re hunting predators like wolves or cougars, stay alert and keep your horse moving to avoid being attacked. For larger prey, aim for the head or heart to ensure a clean kill. A clean kill is crucial for obtaining perfect pelts, which are worth more money and required for crafting high-quality items.\n\nOne of the best locations for hunting is Big Valley, west of Strawberry. This area is rich in deer, elk, and bears. The Heartlands near Valentine is another great spot for bison and pronghorns. Use binoculars to scout animals from a distance and plan your approach. If you’re hunting birds, such as ducks or geese, aim for flocks near water bodies like Flat Iron Lake or the Dakota River.\n\nA common challenge is spooking animals while riding. To avoid this, crouch or slow your horse to a walk when nearing prey. If an animal runs, use Dead Eye to take a precise shot before it escapes. Another issue is managing your horse’s stamina during long hunts. Carry Horse Stimulants or feed your horse regularly to keep its stamina high. Additionally, store pelts and carcasses on your horse to maximize your haul, but be cautious of predators or hostile NPCs who may attack.\n\nFor new players, practice hunting smaller animals like rabbits or birds to get comfortable with the mechanics. Experienced players can tackle legendary animals, which require careful planning and powerful weapons. Always check the animal’s star rating before shooting to ensure you’re targeting a high-quality pelt.\n\nFinally, remember to skin your kills immediately to avoid losing the pelt. If you’re carrying too much, visit a trapper or camp to store your items. Hunting from horseback is a rewarding activity in RDR2, offering both practical benefits and immersive gameplay. With the right preparation and strategy, you can become a master hunter in no time.