So, you want to be a legendary angler in Red Dead Redemption 2, huh? Well, grab your fishing rod, partner, because we're about to dive deep into the world of legendary fish. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know to reel in those elusive, record-breaking catches. From finding the right bait to mastering the art of the cast, we've got you covered. Get ready to explore the waterways of RDR2 and become the ultimate fishing legend!

Getting Started: Preparing for the Hunt

Before you even think about wrestling a legendary fish, you need to get your gear in order. First and foremost, you'll need the special spinner lures. These aren't your run-of-the-mill worms and bobbers. You can't catch legendary fish without them! You can buy these lures from the bait shop in Lagras, located in the swamps of Bayou Nwa, northeast of Saint Denis. Make sure to stock up on all the different types – you’ll need them for different fish and locations.

Next, you'll need to progress far enough in the main story to unlock fishing. This happens during the Chapter 2 mission, "A Fisher of Men," where you'll learn the basics of fishing with Jack Marston. It’s a pretty chill mission, and it’ll give you the foundation you need for the more challenging catches ahead.

Lastly, make sure you have a decent horse and some provisions. You'll be traveling to various corners of the map, and a trusty steed and a full belly will make the journey much smoother. Pack some snacks, tonics, and maybe a warm coat if you're heading to the colder regions. Being prepared is half the battle, especially when dealing with the unpredictable elements of the Wild West.

The Legendary Fish Locations and How to Catch Them

Alright, let's get down to the nitty-gritty. Here's a breakdown of each legendary fish, where to find them, and what bait to use. Remember, patience is key. These fish didn't get legendary by being easy to catch!

1. Legendary Salmon

• Location: Lake Isabella, high up in the Grizzlies West region.
• Bait: Special Spinner

Lake Isabella is a beautiful but chilly spot. The Legendary Salmon can be found on the west side of the lake. This is probably one of the first legendary fish many players attempt to catch due to its relatively early accessibility. Be prepared for cold weather; dress warmly or use a tonic to prevent health drain.

Cast your line far into the lake and be ready for a fight. Salmon are strong swimmers, so you'll need to manage your line carefully. Don't reel too quickly or you risk snapping the line. Instead, gently pull back on the rod and reel in short bursts. With a bit of patience, you'll have this beauty flopping on the shore in no time.

2. Legendary Steelhead Trout

• Location: Near the Brandywine Drop in Roanoke Ridge.
• Bait: Special River Lure

The Brandywine Drop is a scenic waterfall area, and it's here you'll find the Legendary Steelhead Trout. This fish prefers the fast-moving waters near the falls, so position yourself accordingly.

Use the Special River Lure and cast upstream, allowing the current to carry your lure naturally. Steelhead Trout are known for their agility, so be ready for a quick and aggressive fight. Keep your rod tip up and reel steadily, adjusting your angle to keep the line taut. Landing this fish will require both skill and a bit of luck.

3. Legendary Lake Sturgeon

• Location: The southern Railroad Bridge leading into Saint Denis.
• Bait: Special River Lure

The Legendary Lake Sturgeon is a true monster, and it can be found lurking near the railroad bridge south of Saint Denis. This is a bustling area, so watch out for trains and other hazards.

Cast your line as far as you can towards the open water. The Sturgeon is a brute, and it will test your fishing skills to the limit. Be prepared for a long and strenuous fight. Use a combination of reeling and pulling back on the rod to wear the fish down. Don't be afraid to give it some slack when it makes a strong run. Eventually, you'll tire it out and be able to haul it in.

4. Legendary Smallmouth Bass

• Location: West of Strawberry in Owanjila.
• Bait: Special Lake Lure

Owanjila is a picturesque lake nestled in the mountains west of Strawberry, and it's home to the Legendary Smallmouth Bass. This fish prefers the clear, calm waters of the lake.

Use the Special Lake Lure and cast near the rocky shorelines or submerged structures. Smallmouth Bass are known for their jumping ability, so be ready for some acrobatic displays. Keep your line tight and reel steadily, anticipating any sudden movements. With a bit of finesse, you'll have this feisty fish in your grasp.

5. Legendary Largemouth Bass

• Location: San Luis River, south of Lake Don Julio.
• Bait: Special River Lure

The Legendary Largemouth Bass can be found in the San Luis River, south of Lake Don Julio. This area is known for its dense vegetation and murky waters, providing the perfect habitat for this elusive fish.

Use the Special River Lure and cast near the lily pads and submerged logs. Largemouth Bass are ambush predators, so be ready for a sudden and powerful strike. Set the hook quickly and hold on tight! These fish are strong and determined, so you'll need to use all your skills to bring them in.

6. Legendary Perch

• Location: Elysian Pool.
• Bait: Special Lake Lure

The Legendary Perch is located in the mysterious Elysian Pool. This secluded spot is shrouded in mist and legends, adding to the allure of the catch.

Use the Special Lake Lure and cast near the fallen trees and rocky outcrops. Perch are schooling fish, so if you find one, there are likely others nearby. Be patient and persistent, and you'll eventually hook into the legendary specimen. The unique atmosphere of Elysian Pool makes this a memorable fishing experience.

7. Legendary Bluegill

• Location: Along the shore of Flat Iron Lake, north of Rhodes.
• Bait: Special Lake Lure

The Legendary Bluegill can be found along the shores of Flat Iron Lake, north of Rhodes. This is a popular fishing spot, so you might encounter other anglers.

Use the Special Lake Lure and cast near the docks and reeds. Bluegill are known for their vibrant colors and delicate flavor. The legendary specimen is no exception. Be gentle when reeling it in, as it's not as strong as some of the other legendary fish. Enjoy the peaceful surroundings of Flat Iron Lake as you wait for a bite.

8. Legendary Catfish

• Location: Along the shore of Flat Iron Lake, west of Catfish Jackson’s.
• Bait: Special Lake Lure

The Legendary Catfish can be found along the shores of Flat Iron Lake, west of Catfish Jackson’s. This is a fitting location, given the notoriety of the local character.

Use the Special Lake Lure and cast near the muddy bottom and submerged debris. Catfish are bottom feeders, so let your lure sink before retrieving it. Be prepared for a slow and steady fight. Catfish are not known for their speed, but they are incredibly strong. Use a combination of reeling and pulling to wear it down. Landing this fish will be a true test of your angling endurance.

9. Legendary Chain Pickerel

• Location: Dakota River, just West of Cumberland Falls.
• Bait: Special River Lure

The Legendary Chain Pickerel lurks in the Dakota River, just west of Cumberland Falls. This is a beautiful and rugged area, perfect for a fishing adventure.

Use the Special River Lure and cast near the rocky banks and submerged logs. Chain Pickerel are aggressive predators, so be ready for a quick and violent strike. Set the hook firmly and hold on tight! These fish are known for their sharp teeth, so be careful when handling them. Enjoy the stunning scenery of Cumberland Falls as you battle this feisty fish.

10. Legendary Longnose Gar

• Location: In the Bayou Nwa, north of Saint Denis.
• Bait: Special River Lure

The Legendary Longnose Gar can be found in the murky waters of Bayou Nwa, north of Saint Denis. This area is known for its swamps, alligators, and other dangers, so be careful!

Use the Special River Lure and cast near the cypress trees and lily pads. Longnose Gar are ambush predators, so be ready for a sudden and powerful strike. These fish are long and slender, with a distinctive snout. Be prepared for a long and challenging fight. The eerie atmosphere of the bayou adds to the thrill of the catch.

11. Legendary Muskie

• Location: In the Kamassa River, just south of Annesburg.
• Bait: Special River Lure

The Legendary Muskie can be found in the Kamassa River, just south of Annesburg. This is a scenic and relatively peaceful area, perfect for a relaxing fishing trip.

Use the Special River Lure and cast near the deep pools and submerged rocks. Muskie are known for their large size and aggressive behavior. Be prepared for a tough and exciting fight. These fish are strong and determined, so you'll need to use all your skills to bring them in. Enjoy the tranquility of the Kamassa River as you pursue this prized catch.

12. Legendary Redfin Pickerel

• Location: In Stillwater Creek, south of Thieves’ Landing.
• Bait: Special River Lure

The Legendary Redfin Pickerel inhabits Stillwater Creek, south of Thieves’ Landing. This area is known for its lawless inhabitants, so be cautious.

Use the Special River Lure and cast near the overhanging vegetation and submerged timber. Redfin Pickerel are ambush predators, so be alert for a swift and forceful strike. These fish are smaller than some of the other legendary catches, but they are still a challenge to reel in. The rugged and unpredictable environment of Stillwater Creek adds to the excitement of the hunt.

13. The Sizzling Catfish (Only with the Special Mission)

• Location: The mission can be started by a Stranger north of Flatneck Station.
• Bait: Special Lake Lure

Mailing the Fish and Rewards

Once you've wrestled one of these beasts onto the shore, you can't just cook it up for dinner (though that would be quite a meal!). You need to mail them to Jeremy Gill, the legendary fish enthusiast. His location will be marked on your map once you start the questline. Head to the nearest post office and send those scaly trophies off.

Jeremy will send you rewards for your efforts, including cash and new lures. Each fish you send triggers a letter from Jeremy, providing a bit of backstory and appreciation for your angling prowess. Catching all the legendary fish also unlocks a special invitation to visit Jeremy, which leads to a unique and memorable mission.

Tips and Tricks for Legendary Fishing

• Check the Weather: Fish are more active in certain weather conditions. Overcast days and light rain can improve your chances of a bite.
• Use Eagle Eye: Activate Eagle Eye to spot fish in the water and identify potential hotspots.
• Be Patient: Legendary fishing requires patience and persistence. Don't get discouraged if you don't catch one right away. Keep casting and experimenting with different techniques.
• Manage Your Stamina: Reeling in a large fish can drain your stamina quickly. Use tonics to replenish your stamina and avoid exhaustion.
• Upgrade Your Gear: While the special lures are essential, a high-quality fishing rod can also improve your chances of success.

Conclusion

Catching the legendary fish in Red Dead Redemption 2 is a challenging but rewarding endeavor. It requires skill, patience, and a bit of luck. But with the right gear and techniques, you can conquer these aquatic giants and become a true fishing legend. So grab your rod, pack your provisions, and get ready for an unforgettable adventure on the waterways of the Wild West. Happy fishing, partners!