Man versus beast. It is an age-old struggle, and one that has ensued within the rugged terrain of the Great Smoky Mountains since humans first encountered the region centuries ago. Author and local hunting connoisseur Bob Plott takes readers on a quest back through time for a glimpse into the minds and the rifles of the region s most intrepid hunters. From the primitive weaponry and prevailing tactics of the Cherokee to the audacious rifle-toting ridge runners, and even a gruesome gang of cannibalistic rogues, these stories are truly a gripping tribute to mountain life and the adventure of the game. Robert "Bob" Plott is a great-great-great-grandson of Johannes Plott. He has spent most of his professional career working either as a manufacturing manager or as a martial arts instructor. He is an avid outdoorsman and an accomplished woodcarver and sketch artist. Bob is a member of the American Plott Association, the National Plott Hound Association and the North Carolina Bear Hunters Association. This is his first book. He lives with his wife, son and their Plott hounds outside of Statesville, North Carolina.