How to Buy a Moonshine Shack in Red Dead Online

The Moonshiner update for Red Dead Online introduces a new Frontier Pursuit that lets you step into the world of bootlegging and illicit alcohol sales. To start your Moonshining business, you’ll need a Moonshine Shack. However, it’s not as simple as just buying one; there are a few steps to complete first. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know to purchase and maximize your Moonshine Shack, as well as the unique features you’ll find inside.

Prerequisites: Trader Role Requirements

Before you can unlock the Moonshiner role, you must first meet one of the following Trader role requirements:

• Reach Trader Level 5.
• Complete at least one Trader Sell Mission.

If you’re new to the Trader role, this may take some time, but completing these tasks is essential to unlock the Moonshiner Frontier Pursuit. There’s no way to bypass this requirement, so focus on progressing through the Trader role to get started.

Meeting Cripps and Maggie at Emerald Ranch

Once you meet the Trader requirement, you’ll receive a Business Opportunities Letter from Cripps in your satchel. This letter introduces Maggie Fike, an experienced bootlegger who wants to restart her Moonshining operation.

After reading the letter, a mission marker labeled A Life of ‘Shine will appear at Emerald Ranch. Head there to meet Maggie and Cripps at the old saloon.

Alternatively, if you’ve already met the requirements, you can select the Moonshiner option from the Red Dead Online menu, similar to other Frontier Pursuits.

When you arrive at Emerald Ranch, you’ll trigger a cutscene where Maggie outlines the Moonshining business. She’ll hand you a map marking five potential locations for your Moonshine Shack.

How to Buy a Moonshine Shack

After the cutscene, you’ll be able to purchase your very own Moonshine Shack. Follow these steps:

1. Open the Player Menu.
2. Select Camp & Properties.
3. Choose Moonshine Shack.
4. Select one of the five available locations:
   • Bayou Nwa (swampy and secluded).
   • Grizzlies (rugged and snowy).
   • Hennigan’s Stead (open desert).
   • Heartlands (rolling plains).
   • Tall Trees (forested area).

Each shack costs 25 Gold Bars, which is equivalent to approximately $10 USD. Upon purchase, you’ll receive 2,000 Moonshiner XP and access to various decor options for your shack.

Don’t stress too much about where you place your Moonshine Shack at first. If you’re not satisfied with the location, you can move it to a different spot later.

Inside the Moonshine Shack

The Moonshine Shack is more than just a place to run your operation. It comes with several unique features and upgrades that make it a lively and engaging property:

• The Distillery: This is where you’ll craft different flavors of moonshine. Upgrade your equipment to increase profits and unlock new recipes.
• The Bar: Purchase a bar expansion to serve moonshine to NPC patrons and friends.
• The Band: Add live music to your bar to create a fun, festive atmosphere. Interact with the band to start playing instruments like the banjo or violin.
• The Dance Floor: Dance to the music while your friends enjoy drinks at the bar.
• Basement Access: This is where you’ll manage your Moonshine production and upgrades.

Tips for Running Your Moonshine Business

1. Upgrade Your Equipment: Upgrading your distillery will unlock stronger moonshine recipes, which sell for higher profits.
2. Complete Story Missions: Maggie offers story missions that further develop the Moonshiner narrative while rewarding you with XP and money.
3. Deliver Moonshine Carefully: Be cautious during deliveries, as you can lose profits if the product is damaged.
4. Decorate Your Shack: Spend some of your earnings on decor upgrades to personalize your bar.

Why Invest in the Moonshine Shack?

The Moonshine Shack is more than just a money-making operation. It provides a unique and social gameplay experience, combining business management with roleplaying opportunities. Whether you’re dancing, playing instruments, or crafting premium moonshine, this property adds variety and fun to Red Dead Online.

Thoughts on our how to buy a Moonshine Shack guide? Drop them in the comments below.