Bounty hunting is a reliable money maker in Red Dead Redemption 2. There are 6 bounties per region, each with a unique target and reward. This guide covers tracking, capture tactics, and how to maximize your reward.
How Bounty Hunting Works
Bounty missions are available from bounty boards in every major town. The board shows:
- Target name
- Bounty amount
- Last known location
- Reward value
To start a bounty:
- Read the bounty board
- Accept the mission
- Travel to the target's location
- Capture the target (alive or dead)
- Return to the bounty board for reward
The Reward System
Alive vs Dead
Capturing a target alive pays 1.5x the bounty amount. Killing the target pays the base bounty.
For example, a $50 bounty pays $75 if captured alive, $50 if killed.
Bonus Rewards
Some bounties have bonus rewards:
- Bounty with 3+ targets: bonus $50
- Bounty with 5+ targets: bonus $100
- Bounty in remote location: bonus $50
Tracking Tactics
Use Eagle Eye
Eagle Eye highlights tracks, scents, and enemy locations. Use it to:
- Find tracks on the ground
- Locate the target
- Avoid ambushes
Follow the Tracks
Tracks appear as glowing paw prints or footprints. Follow them to:
- Track the target's path
- Predict where they are going
- Set up an ambush
Use the Compass
The compass shows the direction of the target when you are close. Use it to:
- Close the distance
- Avoid circling
- Catch up to a fleeing target
Capture Tactics
Lasso from Distance
The lasso works at up to 30 meters. Aim for the body and release. The target will be immobilized.
Lure to a Cliff
Some targets are on cliffs. Lure them to the edge and use Dead Eye to shoot near them, knocking them off.
Hogtie After Capture
Once lassoed, ride up and hogtie the target. Hogtied targets cannot escape.
Use the Wagon
Bring a bounty wagon to the capture site. Place the hogtied target in the wagon. The wagon can hold up to 4 targets.
Deliver Alive
Bring the wagon to the bounty board location. The targets are automatically delivered and you receive the reward.
Best Weapons for Bounty Hunting
Primary Weapons
- Lasso: required for capture
- Bow with small game arrows: silent takedowns
- Bolt-Action Rifle: long-range precision
Secondary Weapons
- Schofield Revolver: reliable sidearm
- Pump-Action Shotgun: close-quarters
- Knife: silent melee
Best Bounties for Beginners
Big Valley
- Location: Big Valley
- Targets: 3
- Reward: $100 + $50 bonus
- Difficulty: easy
This bounty is the easiest and a good first one to attempt.
Heartland Overflow
- Location: Heartland
- Targets: 4
- Reward: $150 + $50 bonus
- Difficulty: medium
This bounty is a good second mission. It introduces larger groups.
Gaptooth Breach
- Location: Gaptooth Ridge
- Targets: 3
- Reward: $100 + $50 bonus
- Difficulty: medium
This bounty is good for players who want to practice lasso techniques.
Common Mistakes
- Don't kill the targets. You lose 50% of the reward.
- Don't bring a horse without a wagon. You cannot capture multiple targets without one.
- Don't ignore the tracks. They lead you to the target.
- Don't fight in enclosed spaces. Open areas give you room to maneuver.
FAQ: Bounty Hunting
Q: Can bounties be replayed?
A: Yes. They reset after a few in-game days.
Q: Are bounties required for the story?
A: No. They are optional missions.
Q: Can I do bounties in co-op?
A: No. They are solo-only missions.
Q: What happens if I die during a bounty?
A: You respawn and the bounty is lost.
Q: Are there legendary bounties?
A: Yes. There are 3 legendary bounties in the epilogue.
With this guide, you will be a master bounty hunter. Use the lasso, follow the tracks, and always capture targets alive for maximum reward.
Bounty Hunter Equipment
Best Bounty Hunter Outfits
The best outfits for bounty hunting:
- The Bounty Hunter Hat: increases tracking range by 50%
- The Bounty Hunter Vest: increases capture success by 25%
- The Bounty Hunter Boots: increases movement speed by 10%
These outfits are unlocked by completing 10 bounties.
Best Bounty Hunter Weapons
Beyond the lasso, the best weapons are:
- Bow with small game arrows: silent takedowns
- Knife: silent melee
- Schofield Revolver: reliable sidearm
- Repeater: medium-range
Best Bounty Hunter Horse
The best horse for bounty hunting is the Thoroughbred. It has:
- Top speed: 9/10
- Acceleration: 8/10
- Stamina: 7/10
The Thoroughbred is fast enough to catch fleeing targets and has enough stamina for long chases.
Legendary Bounties
There are 3 legendary bounties in the epilogue:
The Sheriff of Sisika
Location: Sisika Penitentiary. Targets: 6 escaped convicts. Reward: $250 + bonus.
The Sisters of Saint Denis
Location: Saint Denis. Targets: 4 criminal sisters. Reward: $200 + bonus.
The Bounty Hunter King
Location: Blackwater. Targets: 1 master criminal. Reward: $500 + bonus.
These bounties are the toughest in the game and require the best gear.
Bounty Hunter Tips and Tricks
Save Before Each Bounty
Always save your game before starting a bounty. If the target escapes, reload and try again.
Use Eagle Eye Frequently
Eagle Eye is essential for tracking targets. Use it every 30 seconds during the chase.
Bring Tonics
Bring Health Tonics and Dead Eye Tonics for tough bounties. They can save your life.
Use Dead Eye for Headshots
Use Dead Eye to land headshots on tough targets. A headshot kills instantly.
Common Mistakes
- Don't forget the lasso. It is required for capture.
- Don't ignore the tracks. They lead you to the target.
- Don't fight in enclosed spaces. Open areas give you room to maneuver.
- Don't use heavy weapons. Fast weapons are better for capture.
FAQ: Bounty Hunting Extended
Q: What's the highest-paying bounty?
A: The legendary bounty in Blackwater pays $500.
Q: Can I capture legendary bounties alive?
A: Yes, but it is harder than capturing regular bounties.
Q: Are there bounty hunter-only items?
A: Yes. The Bounty Hunter outfit is unique to the role.
Q: What's the best weapon for legendary bounties?
A: The Bolt-Action Rifle with explosive ammo.
Q: Are there bounty hunting challenges?
A: Yes. Capture 100 bounties alive to unlock the Master Bounty Hunter trophy.