About 25 years ago, Roy Withers of Louisiana learned the hard way that a wounded animal is never done until it’s truly done. According to an article from Outdoor Life, after hitting a 180-pound, 8-point (4×4 for us) buck during primitive firearms season, Roy tracked the deer after dark with a dog…only to discover it was still very much alive and not in the mood to surrender.
With no firearm allowed at night, he made a gutsy call to finish the job with a pocketknife. The buck charged, antlers flying, catching Roy in the face and head and turning a routine recovery into a full-blown wrestling match that could have ended badly. Thankfully, Roy walked away, got patched up by his wife, and the buck was later recovered.
It is one heck of a reminder—and a serious close call—that critters can have unbelievable strength and adrenaline, even when they look down for the count. Take your time, watch for movement, and never assume an animal is dead–make sure you know for sure. A little patience and distance can save a lot of pain. Great story, big lesson: no trophy is worth risking your life!
On that note, being that ice depths are all over the place in many parts of Montana, who is ready for 2026’s big game season here in Montana?
Photo credit: Roy Withers
