In the early stages of Red Dead Redemption 2, Arthur Morgan expresses his modest hunting skills to Charles Smith, yet there’s always potential for improvement. For gamers aiming to tackle the Master Hunter Challenges, preparation is key. This journey promises to transform them into top-tier hunters.
Mastering each Master Hunter Challenge is crucial for achieving 100% completion in the game, ultimately leading to acquiring the coveted Legend of the East set. Not only do these challenges provide a thrilling way to engage with the beautiful, expansive world, but they also present a formidable test that few will conquer.
1. Master Hunter Challenge #1 – Skin Three Deer
- Rewards: Master Hunter Off-Hand Holster
This introductory challenge is straightforward as deer are plentiful in the game’s vast world. Notably, players are likely to spot deer in West Elizabeth and the south-western areas of Lemoyne. The task requires killing and skinning three deer, and the quality of the pelts is inconsequential. Utilize your horse for swift mobility and hunt these graceful animals with a rifle for effective kills.
2. Master Hunter Challenge #2 – Collect Three Perfect Quality Rabbit Pelts
- Rewards: 25 Health XP, $5
Players should equip the Varmint Rifle, easily obtainable for around $0 from any Gunsmith, to complete this challenge. Perfect-quality pelts can be collected from rabbits denoted by three stars when observed. Common locations for rabbits include Bolger Blade and Caliban’s Seat, situated in New Hanover and Lemoyne.
3. Master Hunter Challenge #3 – Track 10 Different Animal Species Using Your Binoculars
- Rewards: Master Hunter Bandolier
This challenge involves tracking 10 distinct animal species using binoculars, without needing to kill them. Start by studying an animal, which can be done by holding R1. Then, track it from a distance with R1 again.
An excellent route for this challenge is from Valentine to Saint Denis, where a plethora of animals can be spotted. Examples include:
- Whitetail Deer
- Black-Tailed Jackrabbit
- California Valley Coyote
- American Red Fox
- North American Raccoon
- Black Squirrel
- American Pronghorn Doe
- Eastern Wild Turkey
- Wild Boar
- American Alligator
4. Master Hunter Challenge #4 – Get a Clean Kill After Calling to an Animal Five Times
- Rewards: 50 Health XP, $10
To complete this challenge, use the Square/X button to call animals while aiming. This method will stop the animal from moving and allow for a clean kill, but timing is critical as they will quickly flee. Stand at a reasonable distance to avoid startling the animal.
A prime location for this challenge is Emerald Ranch, where Whitetail Deer and American Pronghorn Doe frequently appear. Successfully calling and shooting five times will satisfy the challenge criteria.
5. Master Hunter Challenge #5 – Skin Three Black Bears or Grizzly Bears
- Rewards: 50 Health XP, $10
For this challenge, players will want to locate Black Bears near Wallace Station for easier kills. Although Black Bears are somewhat rare, players can increase spawn rates by saving and reloading in specific areas. Alternatively, Grizzly Bears, larger and more dangerous, can be found in these locations:
- Grizzly Bears: Big Valley, south of Strawberry – notably at Vetter’s Echo
- Black Bears: Roanoke Valley, Little Creek River, Bayou Nwa
6. Master Hunter Challenge #6 – Kill Five Cougars With Your Bow, Then Skin Them
- Rewards: 100 Health XP, $15
Finding Cougars can be challenging early in the game. Players can maximize their chances by reloading a save in areas known for Cougar spawns:
- West of Big Valley
- South of Blackwater
- Cholla Springs
Utilize Dead Eye when spotting a Cougar to ensure a successful hunt while keeping your horse calm to prevent alarming the animal.
7. Master Hunter Challenge #7 – Use Bait to Lure and Kill Both a Herbivore and Predator
- Rewards: Master Hunter Gun Belt
This challenge involves placing Herbivore Bait, which can be obtained at General Stores or crafted, in an outdoor area. A good location is Big Valley in West Elizabeth. After luring a herbivore, kill it, then place Predator Bait to attract a predator to the carcass. This sequential process unlocks the challenge, and patience may be required for success. Note that Wild Boars can be classified as predators for this challenge.
8. Master Hunter Challenge #8 – Catch Three Small Fish Without Using a Fishing Rod
- Rewards: 100 Health XP, $15
Players can easily accomplish this challenge via two methods, focusing on small fish:
- Method 1: Visit the area behind the Granite Pass waterfall (Southwest of Fort Wallace) to find fish that can be picked up directly.
- Method 2: At Gill Landing, shoot any visible fish with your gun to wash them ashore for collection.
9. Master Hunter Challenge #9 – Catch an Opossum Playing Possum
- Rewards: 150 Health XP, $20
For this challenge, players must locate and startle an opossum until it plays dead. Look for opossums, as they typically spawn at night in areas like:
- Riggs Station
- Northwest of Strawberry
- Heartlands, near the Oil Rig
- Emerald Ranch
10. Master Hunter Challenge #10 – Find and Kill the Legendary Panther “Giaguaro”
- Rewards: Master Hunter Holster
For players, the final challenge is straightforward if they know the right location. Head to the southeastern area of Bolger Glade, located just west of Shady Belle in Scarlett Meadows, Lemoyne. Here lies the Legendary Panther, Giaguaro.
Activate Eagle Eye to track this elusive beast using clues from its victims and droppings. Players should be cautious; if spotted, the Panther can kill you almost instantly. Thus, be armed with a high-impact weapon, such as a Bolt-Action Rifle, to increase your chances of success.
Once all challenges are completed, players can visit the Trapper in Saint Denis to purchase the exclusive Master Hunter Equipment Set, enhancing the Health attribute.
Leave a Reply ▼