Updated November 4, 2023, by Christopher Norman Worcester: Red Dead Redemption 2 remains an incredibly popular game, with players around the world still setting out with Arthur Morgan to take on the game's incredible journey. With hunting at the core of the game's mechanics, it is important that we ensure that players have the best information on collecting perfect pelts. With that in mind, this update will add a video guide for players to access.

Hunting in Red Dead Redemption 2 is a bit more complicated than it is in similar games, especially when it comes to getting perfect pelts that can be used in crafting upgrades for Arthur Morgan's equipment. Considering this, some players may need help getting perfect pelts in Red Dead Redemption 2, so here is how to do it.

How to Get a Perfect Pelt in Red Dead Redemption 2

First off, players will want to confirm that the animal they're hunting has a perfect pelt. This can be done by studying the animal through Arthur's binoculars or, if players can get close enough, just focusing on it. Animal pelts will be rated on a scale of 1 to 3 stars, with players able to skin 3 star animals for perfect pelts. After identifying a high quality animal, it's time to hunt it.

Players can track the animal by clicking in both the left and right sticks simultaneously, but they'll need to take some other things into account. Arthur's scent is carried by the wind, so players will want to move in a way that the animal doesn't smell him and run away. Players can use items to mask Arthur's scent, as well as lay bait to attract animals to a specific area. Noise can also startle animals, so players should move slowly while they're hunting.

Once the animal has been found, players will want to attack its weak points with the proper weapon. While it's possible to shoot animals with a gun and still get a perfect pelt, the best bet is to shoot animals with the bow and arrow. Players may want to craft poison arrows or improved arrows before tackling bigger game, though. For smaller animals, players will want to craft small game arrows.

After successfully hunting a 3 star animal, players can approach its carcass and skin it for the perfect pelt. Keep in mind that pelts will degrade over time, so the first priority after getting a perfect pelt should be to deliver it to Pearson at camp or take it to the trapper at one of his locations. Alternatively, players can also sell the pelt outright, though that short term gain of cash isn't as appealing as the long-term benefit of upgrading Arthur's equipment.

It will take some practice, but with enough patience, Red Dead Redemption 2 players should be able to improve their hunting skills and grow their collection of perfect pelts.

Red Dead Redemption 2 is out now for PS4 and Xbox One.