While most of the NPCs in Red Dead Redemption 2 are helpful toward Arthur and the other members of the Van der Linde Gan (granted they don’t behave badly toward them) there are a few that are way more helpful, assisting the members of the gang to get rid of stolen items in exchange for cash: Fences.
Fences are introduced in Chapter 2 during the Pouring Forth Oil mission, where Arthur is introduced to Seamus, a man living in Emerald Ranch who specializes in buying items that come from unspecified, and not exactly legit, sources. There are also three other fences in the world of Red Dead Redemption 2, each providing the same services and slightly different inventory.
Fences are best used when you want to sell items that have been obtained through robberies and looted from dead enemies and NPCs. While these items can be sold to regular shops as well, selling them to Fences is better since they pay more. Fences are also the only ones that will buy Gold Bars from you, so always make sure to pinpoint the location of the closest one when you have to sell those precious bars.
Fences provide other services as well. They have a selection of rare items on sale, including different ammo types, Hunting related items and even crafting recipes. Prices are high, however, so don’t expect to be able to purchase all available recipes without spending a good amount of money.
Among the items available by Fences, the one we recommend purchasing as soon as possible is the Lock Breaker. This incredibly useful item allows Arthur to break any lock found in the game, including those found on the back of stagecoaches. Without the item, there’s no way to open the lock. Note that the Lock Breaker cannot be used to open safes, for that you need dynamite which can be purchased at any Gun Store or at your camp (provided it’s been upgraded sufficiently).
The Lock Breaker is also useful in select Chance Encounters, so purchase it as soon as you are able, you will be happy you did. The item is also obtained automatically during a Story Mission in Chapter 3, but you would be missing several opportunities if you wait so long to get it.
If you enjoy Hunting, and you are looking to take down the game’s Legendary Animals, Fences provide an additional incentive for doing so. The parts harvested from these animals can be used to craft Trinkets and Talismans, which permanently unlock a variety of perks that make Arthur’s life easier during his journey.
In this guide, we will cover the locations of the four fences so you will know exactly where to go to get rid of your stolen items and in return, get some money.
Emerald Ranch Fence
The Fence in Emerald Ranch is the first one you will meet during the game. This Fence is unlocked automatically after completing the “Pouring Forth Oil” mission in Chapter 2, but you can access it even before being able to play the mission. Just head to the east of Valentine to reach Emerald Ranch and as soon as you do an icon will appear on the map highlighting this vendor, who’s located precisely to the south of the “Emerald Ranch” on the map.
Rhodes Fence
The Fence in Rhodes is likely the second one you will meet if you follow the story without branching off and explore the rest of the map. This vendor is located to the north of the town of Rhodes, slightly outside it. Once you are close to his location, the Fence will be highlighted on the map.
Saint Denis Fence
The Saint Denise Fence is the third one you will encounter if you haven’t gotten to the Van Horn Trading Post yet. This vendor is very easy to locate, just go to the city’s market area. The Fence is located close to the Trapper.
Van Horn Trading Post Fence
A trading post houses all types of business, so it’s not surprising to see a Fence located in the Van Horn Trading Post. He can be found to the east of the post office.
