Hunting Cougars in Red Dead Redemption 2: Locations, Loot, and Tips

The cougar hunt and the associated ‘6th Master Hunter Challenge’ are some of the most challenging and rewarding hunts in Red Dead Redemption 2. These majestic animals can kill players quickly due to their speed and high damage, requiring special tactics and equipment to take them down. In this guide, we will show you the best ways to hunt cougars, where to find them, and what rewards you'll get from doing so.

Best Weapons for Hunting Cougars

When it comes to taking down cougars, you'll need a reliable and powerful weapon. A rifle or a bow with poison arrows is recommended as they offer high damage output and a good chance to obtain the Perfect Cougar Pelt. Cougars are at the top of their food chain, making them less likely to engage in altercations with other predators, so be prepared for a tough fight.

Where to Find Cougars in Red Dead Redemption 2

Cougars are commonly found in the southwestern region of New Austin, with smaller populations in Big Valley and north of Roanoke Ridge. Here are all the cougar locations in Red Dead Redemption 2:

Looking for more specific locations? Check out these hotspots:

• Big Valley
  • Black Bone Forest, before the road northwest from Owanjila
  • The fields of lavender north of Vetter’s Echo
• Cholla Springs
• Gaptooth Ridge
  • South of Rathskeller Fork
  • West of Tumbleweed
• Lemoyne
  • Old Harry Fen and Catfish Jackson’s
• Rio Bravo
  • Between Benedict Point and Plainview
• Roanoke Ridge
  • Beaver Hollow
  • Roanoke Valley
  • Brandywine Drop, in the upriver forest on both sides
  • Manito Glade
  • East of Black Balsam Rise
  • Kamassa River Falls, near the state border on both sides of the pond
• The Heartlands (random only)
• Tall Trees
  • Cochinay

Cougar Loot

When cougars are skinned, they produce the following items:

• Cougar fur
• Big Game Meat
• Cougar Fang
• Cougar Carcass
• Perfect Cougar Pelt (small chance)

Using the Perfect Cougar Pelt in Red Dead Redemption 2

The Perfect Cougar Pelt is a valuable asset in the game, allowing players to craft items like the Legend of the East Satchel, which increases the player's carrying capacity. To get your hands on one of these pelts, refer to the locations mentioned above and good luck.