TL;DR
- Five key trapper locations exist: Saint Denis (primary) plus four wilderness outposts
- Pelt quality directly impacts sale value – perfect pelts earn 3x more than poor quality
- Weapon choice is critical – use bows or rifles with specific ammunition types
- Plan hunting routes around trapper accessibility and story chapter restrictions
- Proper animal transportation prevents pelt degradation during travel
Hunting represents one of the most fundamental survival mechanics in Red Dead Redemption 2, serving dual purposes of sustaining your character’s core attributes while generating consistent income streams. Mastering this system requires understanding the intricate relationship between animal quality, pelt preservation, and strategic selling locations.
The economic potential of hunting hinges on pelt condition grading, where perfect specimens command premium prices compared to damaged counterparts. Many players underestimate how weapon selection impacts pelt quality – using explosives or improper firearms can devastate potential earnings.
Early-game hunters frequently struggle with locating reliable buyers beyond general stores, which offer significantly reduced rates compared to specialized trappers. This knowledge gap often costs players hundreds of dollars during critical early chapters when funds are most limited.
Saint Denis functions as the central urban trading post, positioned in the southern region of the game world. This metropolitan location becomes accessible immediately after completing the initial story missions that introduce free exploration.
The trapper operates within the vibrant market district, identifiable by the prominent crimson brick wall featuring biscuit advertisement artwork. This establishment represents the sole civilized trading post, with remaining vendors situated in remote wilderness areas.
Roanoke Ridge Woods, New Hanover
Concealed within dense forestation in the northeastern map quadrant, this secluded trading post offers discreet operations away from civilized areas.
Big Valley (East), West Elizabeth
Positioned northeast of Riggs Station, this clearing-based operation provides convenient access for hunters exploring the western territories.
Big Valley (North), West Elizabeth
The northwestern map positioning offers exceptional convenience given the abundant hunting opportunities in surrounding territories, making it ideal for extended expeditions.
Seasoned hunters maximize profits through systematic approaches to animal tracking, harvesting, and transportation. Perfect pelts require specific conditions: studying animals before engagement, using appropriate weapons like the bow with improved arrows or rolling block rifle, and executing clean kill shots to vital organs.
Common mistakes include using shotguns for medium game, which destroys pelt quality, or attempting to transport multiple large carcasses simultaneously, increasing vulnerability to predators and environmental damage.
Advanced players should prioritize hunting legendary animals when available, as these provide unique crafting materials unavailable elsewhere. Always carry multiple horse reviver tonics to protect your transportation investment during dangerous wilderness excursions.
Strategic planning must account for narrative progression locks affecting certain trading locations. The northwestern trapper establishment remains inaccessible until completing final chapter objectives, requiring alternative selling points during mid-game segments.
Efficient route planning involves mapping hunting expeditions between accessible trappers based on your current chapter progression, minimizing travel time with valuable cargo.
Action Checklist
- Study animals before shooting to identify 3-star quality targets
- Use appropriate weapons: bow for medium game, rifle for large animals
- Aim for head or heart shots to preserve pelt condition
- Visit Saint Denis trapper first for best prices and accessibility
- Check story chapter before traveling to northwestern trapper location
- Carry horse reviver and plan routes avoiding dangerous territories
No reproduction without permission：SeeYouSoon Game Club » Red Dead 2 Trapper Guide: Locations And Where To Sell Animal Pelts For Cash Master Red Dead Redemption 2's hunting economy with essential trapper locations and advanced pelt-selling strategies