Can You Catch the Legendary Channel Catfish in RDR2?: Separating Fact from Fisherman’s Tale
The question on every Red Dead Redemption 2 angler’s mind: Can you actually reel in the fabled Legendary Channel Catfish mentioned by Jeremy Gill? Unfortunately, the answer is no. While the game hints at its existence, the Legendary Channel Catfish remains uncatchable and ultimately a narrative tease, driving the intriguing but ultimately unresolved storyline of the “A Fisher of Fish” stranger mission.
The Alluring Tale of the Giant Catfish
Red Dead Redemption 2 is renowned for its intricate details, captivating story, and, of course, its fishing mechanics. Among the various fish species to catch, from the humble bluegill to the mighty Legendary Sturgeon, the whisper of a Legendary Channel Catfish resonates strongly. Jeremy Gill, the eccentric fishing aficionado, speaks of this monstrous creature, setting players on a quest that ultimately leads to disappointment, but not before significant exploration and speculation.
The “A Fisher of Fish” Stranger Mission
The allure of the Legendary Channel Catfish is deeply intertwined with the “A Fisher of Fish” stranger mission. Players are tasked by Jeremy Gill, found at Flatneck Station, to mail him photographs of thirteen Legendary Fish across the map. This mission not only serves as a guided tour of RDR2’s diverse fishing locations but also builds anticipation for a final encounter with the mythical catfish.
The Disappointment and the Theories
Despite the extensive search and dedication required to complete Jeremy Gill’s requests, the game’s story ends without providing the opportunity to actually catch the Legendary Channel Catfish. This absence has spurred numerous theories within the RDR2 community. Some believe it was planned but cut during development, while others speculate it’s a deliberate narrative device to emphasize the unattainable nature of certain legends and the allure of the unknown.
The Evidence Against Its Existence
Several pieces of evidence suggest the Legendary Channel Catfish is not catchable:
- Game Files: Data miners have meticulously examined RDR2’s game files and found no concrete evidence of a catchable Legendary Channel Catfish.
- Game Guides: Official game guides and resources list all catchable Legendary Fish, and the Channel Catfish is conspicuously absent.
- Community Consensus: Years of searching and experimentation by countless players have yielded zero verifiable catches.
What You Can Catch in RDR2
While the Legendary Channel Catfish remains elusive, RDR2 offers a wide array of fish to catch:
Regular Fish: Bluegill, Bullhead Catfish, Chain Pickerel, Creek Chub, Largemouth Bass, Perch, Rock Bass, Smallmouth Bass, Steelhead Trout, Redfin Pickerel.
Legendary Fish:
Legendary Fish Location Legendary Sturgeon Saint Denis Docks Legendary Bluegill Flat Iron Lake Legendary Largemouth Bass San Luis River (near Lake Don Julio) Legendary Smallmouth Bass Owanjila Legendary Redfin Pickerel Stillwater Creek Legendary Rock Bass Aurora Basin Legendary Perch Elysian Pool Legendary Chain Pickerel Dakota River (between Flatneck Station & Bard’s Crossing) Legendary Bullhead Catfish Sisika Penitentiary Legendary Muskie Van Horn Trading Post Legendary Lake Sturgeon Lannahechee River (north of Saint Denis) Legendary Steelhead Trout Willard’s Rest Legendary Longnose Gar Lagras
Embracing the Mystery
Instead of focusing on catching the uncatchable, players can enjoy the rich experience of fishing in RDR2. Explore diverse locations, experiment with different lures, and appreciate the beauty of the game’s environment. The legend of the Channel Catfish, while unresolved, adds another layer to the game’s captivating world.
The Value of a Good Story
The story of the Legendary Channel Catfish serves as a reminder that not every mystery needs a solution. Sometimes, the pursuit and the stories surrounding the uncatchable are more valuable than the catch itself. It fuels the game’s lore and encourages community engagement, demonstrating the power of an unfinished narrative thread.
Frequently Asked Questions About the RDR2 Legendary Channel Catfish
Is there a specific location to catch the Legendary Channel Catfish?
No, there isn’t. Despite extensive searching, the Legendary Channel Catfish cannot be caught at any location in the game. Jeremy Gill mentions its existence, but it’s never actually available to catch.
What bait or lure is best for catching the Legendary Channel Catfish?
Since the Legendary Channel Catfish is uncatchable, no specific bait or lure will work. Players have tried every available lure in the game with no success.
Does completing the “A Fisher of Fish” mission guarantee I can catch it?
Unfortunately, completing the “A Fisher of Fish” mission does not unlock the ability to catch the Legendary Channel Catfish. The mission’s ending is purposefully ambiguous, leaving the catfish a mystery.
Can I glitch or mod the game to catch the Legendary Channel Catfish?
While modding the game might theoretically allow you to spawn or create a catchable Legendary Channel Catfish, this is outside the normal gameplay experience and potentially violates the game’s terms of service. There’s no known glitch to legitimately catch it.
Is the Legendary Channel Catfish just a myth within the game’s lore?
Yes, it seems the Legendary Channel Catfish is primarily a narrative element. It fuels the story and adds to the game’s mystique, rather than being a tangible, catchable fish.
Why does Jeremy Gill talk about it if it’s not in the game?
Jeremy Gill’s tales of the Legendary Channel Catfish serve to enhance his character and the world around him. It adds to the game’s sense of realism, implying that not all legends are verifiable.
Has Rockstar Games ever commented on the Legendary Channel Catfish?
To date, Rockstar Games has not officially commented on the Legendary Channel Catfish’s absence. This silence has further fueled speculation and discussion within the RDR2 community.
Are there any similar unresolved mysteries in Red Dead Redemption 2?
Yes, RDR2 is filled with other mysteries and unanswered questions. These include the strange man in the mountains, Gavin’s friend, and other enigmatic encounters that contribute to the game’s atmosphere.
What should I do if I’ve caught all the other Legendary Fish?
If you’ve caught all the other Legendary Fish, you can proudly consider yourself an accomplished angler in Red Dead Redemption 2. Focus on completing other challenges and exploring the vast open world.
Is there any chance it will be added in a future update or DLC?
While theoretically possible, it’s highly unlikely that Rockstar Games will add the Legendary Channel Catfish in a future update. The game has been out for several years, and no new content is currently planned.
Should I give up on trying to catch the Legendary Channel Catfish?
Yes, it’s best to accept that the Legendary Channel Catfish is uncatchable. Focus your energy on other rewarding activities within the game.
What’s the biggest fish I can catch in RDR2?
The Legendary Lake Sturgeon is among the largest and most challenging fish to catch. It can be found in the Lannahechee River, north of Saint Denis. Be sure to use a Special Lake Lure and a sturdy fishing rod!