How to Fish (and Where to Find Them) in "Red Dead Redemption 2"

Fishing is just as important (and fun) as hunting in Red Dead Redemption 2.

In case you haven't heard, Red Dead Redemption 2 (RDR 2) has expanded its hunting system to include the ~very relaxing~ hobby of fishing and it's quickly becoming everyone's favourite pastime.

I've had more fun fishing in Red Dead Redemption 2 than I've had in my entire real life.

— MrGreeneArrow (@MrGreeneArrow) October 29, 2018

"When do I get to start my illustrious career as a virtuoso of the fishing rod?" I hear you ask.

Well, it starts with a mission involving Jack Marston in Chapter Two where you'll finally be christened with your very own fishing rod. Later on, in Chapter Three, you'll get to steal a boat and be given the opportunity to venture further into the lake where the bigger fish lie just waiting to take your bait.

It's at precisely these points that RDR 2 makes the slow transformation into a (quality) fishing simulator.

To help you get on with the inevitable task of becoming the Wild West's best fisherperson, we've compiled all we know about fishing in this gargantuan game.

Give me the basics.

While the game gives you constant tips on how to fish, it definitely helps to get a refresher on that Red Dead reeling.

Once you get your rod, you'll need to bait up. Choose between a bobber (all-purpose) or a lure (good for specific areas; buy at the Bait Shop in Lagras) by pressing R1 for PS4 users or LB for Xbox. This will determine what sort of fish you'll attract. Thankfully, the game tells you what type each fish prefers so choose what's relevant and let's move on.

Next, you'll need to cast. Much like shooting in-game, you'll need to hold down L2/LT to aim and then R2/RT to cast. Depending on how long you hold the cast button for determines how far you'll cast the line. Pro-tip: Try to hook fish closer to the shore so it doesn't take forever to reel in. It'll help a lot when you start hooking those huge fish.

If you used a lure, you'll need to start slowly reeling it in to attract nearby fish. Used a bait? You can just let it sit until you feel something bite. Press R2/RT every now and then to jerk the line and attract nearby fish.

Once you finally do get that bite, it's time to lock it on. Hit R2/RT to jerk the rod while the fish is biting and you'll hook it. Just like real life, you'll need to make sure you cool it on the reeling while the fish is swimming away from you. Simply pull the left analogue stick down to pull your rod up. Once the fish rests, start reeling in as quickly as you can. Voilà.

Okay, cool, but where do I find all the fish?

Well, this is certainly a big question because we're playing a big game here. The world of Red Dead Redemption 2 can be divided into different zones based on climate and environment. While we're not totally sure where the "north" and "south" border is, we're going to draw a partly-arbitrary, partly-educated line in the sand to help make things a bit more clear.

Blue = what we think is technically north. Red = the south.

Where on the map you fish will actually affect what fish are lurking under the glimmering lakes or murky, alligator-infested swamps, so here's what you'll find in each of those locations.

Lakes

Lakes in the northern parts of the map (Lake Isabella, Cairn Lake) will be hot spots (or cold spots?) for Muskie.

In the southern regions like Flat Iron Lake, you'll find Steelhead Trout, Largemouth Bass and the huge Lake Sturgeon.

Rivers

As the Northern Pike's name suggests, these fishy predators can be found in the map's northern rivers (northern sections of the Kamassa and Dakota Rivers) alongside Smallmouth Bass, and Sockeye Salmon.

You'll have to move to rivers further down south, however, to catch some Redfin Pickerells.

Swamps

You'll see your usual suspects in swamps (around the Lemoyne region) such as the Longnose Gar, Bullhead Catfish and the Channel Catfish. Lake Sturgeon also seem to appear in swamps at times. You might need to use the Special Swamp Lure to capture any of these murky beasts.

Fish that can be found pretty much anywhere.

Bluegill, Chain Pickerell, Perch, Rock Bass can be found in most rivers and lakes all over the country. They're basically the Magikarp of RDR 2.

You can purchase Red Dead Redemption 2 now on PS4 and Xbox in stores all around Australia.

Read More:

How to Hunt Like a Pro in "Red Dead Redemption 2"

Header Image: Rockstar Games