The Curious Case of the Released Legend: What Happens When You Throw Back Legendary Fish?
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The burning question for any Red Dead Redemption 2 (RDR2) angler who manages to haul in a legendary fish is: What happens if I throw it back? The short answer is: you can catch it again. However, the mechanics and consequences of releasing a legendary fish back into the wild aren’t as straightforward as they appear, especially when factoring in player expectations, in-game mechanics, and the overall narrative experience. Understanding these nuances can significantly impact your gameplay and completionist goals. Let’s dive deep into the murky waters of legendary fish release in RDR2.
The Myth of Infinite Legendary Fish?
Initially, many players speculated that releasing a legendary fish allowed for infinite catches, creating a farming opportunity. While you can technically catch the same legendary fish again, it’s only necessary if you lose it. The game mechanics are designed to ensure you obtain each unique legendary fish at least once within your playthrough. Therefore, throwing it back doesn’t create an endless supply; it simply resets the encounter, allowing you another shot if something goes wrong.
This mechanic is vital because various mishaps can occur after landing your prize. A rival gang ambush, a rogue bear attack, or even a simple tumble off your horse can lead to the fish being lost. Rockstar Games implemented the respawn mechanic to prevent players from being permanently locked out of completing the “A Fisher of Fish” Stranger mission or acquiring all the necessary items crafted from legendary catches.
The Intended Outcome: Mailing it to Jeremy Gill
The primary intended outcome for catching a legendary fish is to mail it to Jeremy Gill as part of the “A Fisher of Fish” Stranger mission. Once you catch a legendary fish, you should immediately store it on your horse and head to the nearest post office. Mailing the fish to Jeremy Gill triggers a reward and progresses the questline. Failing to mail it and subsequently losing the fish is where the respawn mechanic comes into play, allowing you to try again.
It’s critical to protect your legendary fish during transport. The journey to the post office can be perilous, and losing the fish before mailing it means you’ll have to return to the fishing spot and try your luck again.
The Consequences of Throwing Back
While the fish will eventually respawn, there’s no benefit to intentionally throwing it back. Here’s a breakdown of the ramifications:
- No immediate reward: You won’t receive any payment or progress in the “A Fisher of Fish” questline if you release the fish.
- Time wasted: You’ll have to return to the same location, potentially after a short in-game time (24-48 hours).
- Potential for loss: Each attempt carries the risk of losing the fish to random events.
In essence, throwing back a legendary fish is a wasted opportunity. The game is designed to reward you for successfully catching and mailing the fish, not for repeatedly catching and releasing it.
A Word on the Cut Content and Catfish Mysteries
There are rumors about a legendary catfish, that never made the final cut of the game. These rumors fueled speculation that throwing back legendary fish might unlock hidden content or trigger special events. However, no evidence supports this theory. While Red Dead Redemption 2 is known for its intricate details and hidden secrets, the fate of legendary fish is quite straightforward: catch, mail, reward.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Legendary Fish
Here are 15 frequently asked questions about legendary fish in Red Dead Redemption 2, to enhance your understanding and ensure a successful fishing expedition.
1. Can I catch legendary fish again in RDR2?
Yes, but only if you lose them after catching them the first time. They’ll respawn after a short in-game period.
2. Should I keep the legendary fish rdr2?
Yes! Once you’ve caught a Legendary Fish, store it on your horse and immediately head to the nearest post office to mail it to Jeremy Gill.
3. What do I do with legendary fish once caught?
Mail them to Jeremy Gill. This progresses the “A Fisher of Fish” Stranger mission and earns you rewards.
4. Is there any reason to keep legendary fish?
No, not really after mailing them to Jeremy Gill. There’s no option to display them in your camp or house.
5. Can I put legendary fish in the Fish Pond?
No, unfortunately, legendary fish cannot be placed in fish ponds. That feature is reserved for regular fish species.
6. What is the easiest Legendary Fish to get to in rdr2?
The Legendary Smallmouth Bass, located in Lake Owanjila near Strawberry, is generally considered the easiest to access.
7. Can you catch the final legendary catfish rdr2?
There is no “final” legendary catfish to catch. The Legendary Bullhead Catfish is the only one available.
8. How many Legendary Animals can you get as Arthur?
Arthur Morgan can hunt all 16 legendary animals in Red Dead Redemption 2.
9. Is it worth hunting the Legendary Animals in RDR2?
Yes! Hunting legendary animals provides unique crafting materials, unlocks items from the trapper and is part of the game’s completion goals.
10. What to do if you lose a legendary fish in RDR2?
Wait a couple of in-game days. The fish will respawn at its original location.
11. How many times can you catch the legend fish?
Each legendary fish can only be caught once per playthrough (unless you lose it and it respawns).
12. Is legendary fish rare?
Yes, legendary fish are unique and challenging to catch, requiring specific lures and strategies.
13. What is the hardest fish to catch in RDR2?
The Legendary Bullhead Catfish, located near Sisika Penitentiary, is considered the most challenging due to its remote location and aggressive nature.
14. What is the best bait for legendary fish rdr2?
You need special lures, available at Lagras: the Special River Lure, Special Lake Lure, and Special Swamp Lure, depending on the fish’s habitat.
15. Can you wild bait for legendary fish?
No, Wild Bait has no effect on catching Legendary Fish. You must use the special lures.
Conclusion
While the idea of releasing a legendary fish back into the wild might seem like a noble gesture, in Red Dead Redemption 2, it serves no practical purpose beyond resetting the encounter if you’ve lost your catch. Focus on protecting your prize and delivering it to Jeremy Gill to reap the rewards of your fishing prowess. Happy fishing, and may your line always be strong!
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