Stalking zones are a key stealth mechanic in Assassin’s Creed Black Flag Resynced, but the game doesn’t clearly explain how they work. Several assassin contracts require players to eliminate a target from one of these locations to complete an optional objective and earn additional rewards.

If you’re unsure what counts as a stalking zone, here’s how the mechanic works and which contracts require it.

What Counts as a Stalking Zone?

A stalking zone is any patch of vegetation where Edward can remain hidden while surrounded by a white outline.

Examples include:

  • Tall grass
  • Flower patches
  • Reeds

The white outline is the easiest way to confirm you’re inside a valid stalking zone. If it isn’t visible, the game won’t recognize the assassination as meeting the contract requirement.

How to Perform a Stalking Zone Assassination

To complete the optional objective:

  1. Enter a stalking zone until Edward gains the white outline.
  2. Stay hidden inside the vegetation.
  3. Lure the target closer by whistling or otherwise attracting their attention.
  4. Wait for the target to move within range.
  5. Press the Assassinate button while remaining inside the stalking zone.
  • PlayStation: Triangle
  • Xbox: Y

If performed correctly, the optional objective will complete immediately, rewarding you with the contract’s bonus payout.

Keep the White Outline Visible

The most important part of the challenge is staying inside the stalking zone throughout the assassination.

It’s possible to crouch just outside the vegetation while still appearing hidden, but once Edward’s white outline disappears, the kill will no longer count toward the objective—even if the target is eliminated stealthily.

Fortunately, assassin contract areas typically include nearby patches of tall grass or similar cover designed for these optional objectives.

Do Haystacks Count?

No. Although haystacks have long been a signature hiding place throughout the Assassin’s Creed series, they do not count as stalking zones in Black Flag Resynced.

While hiding in a haystack, Edward does not receive the white outline that identifies a valid stalking zone.

That doesn’t make haystacks useless, however. They remain an effective way to eliminate enemies without being detected.

Hiding Spots vs. Stalking Zones

Some assassin contracts ask you to eliminate a target from a hiding spot instead of a stalking zone.

These objectives are more flexible and can be completed from locations such as:

  • Haystacks
  • Underwater hiding spots
  • Elevated ledges for aerial assassinations
  • Standard stealth approaches from behind
  • Grass and vegetation used for concealment

Only contracts that specifically mention stalking zones require the white outline and designated vegetation.

Assassin Contracts That Require Stalking Zones

The following assassin contracts include the stalking zone objective:

Assassin Contract Shady Business A Slaver’s Business The Pirate Captain Renegade The Slave Master

Completing the optional objective in these missions grants the additional contract reward.

Why Stalking Zones Matter

Assassin contracts are one of the main side activities available after progressing through Assassin’s Creed Black Flag Resynced. Understanding the difference between a standard hiding spot and a true stalking zone makes it much easier to complete bonus objectives and maximize your rewards. Whenever a contract specifically mentions a stalking zone, remember to look for vegetation that gives Edward the white outline before making your move.