For Deron Santiny, hunting is more than a hobby—it’s a lifeline. The Iraq War veteran turned to hunting whitetail deer in 2007 as a therapeutic escape. Over the years, his pursuits have taken him across diverse terrains, tracking elk, mule deer, and antelope. But in December 2024, Santiny achieved a milestone that left even seasoned hunters in awe: he harvested a colossal 696-pound black bear in Louisiana.
This historic hunt was made possible by a landmark decision in 2024, when Louisiana reopened black bear hunting after a 35-year hiatus. The Louisiana black bear, once teetering on the brink of extinction, was listed as threatened under the Endangered Species Act in 1992. Decades of conservation efforts, tho, have paid off. By 2016, the species had rebounded sufficiently to be removed from the endangered list, a testament to the tireless work of wildlife advocates and habitat restoration initiatives.
The Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries (LDWF) will now allow highly regulated hunting to manage the population of black bears.
(Getty Images)
This year, the state issued just 11 hunting permits, prioritizing private landowners who played a pivotal role in the bears’ recovery. These permits are part of a carefully managed strategy to ensure the species’ long-term survival while addressing concerns about overpopulation in certain areas.
For Santiny, the hunt was more than a personal triumph—it was a moment of connection with nature and a reminder of the resilience of both wildlife and the human spirit. “It’s not just about the hunt,” he reflects.“it’s about understanding the balance of nature and our role in preserving it.”
as Louisiana continues to navigate the complexities of wildlife management, stories like Santiny’s underscore the importance of lasting practices and the enduring bond between humans and the natural world.
louisiana Army veteran Hunts Record-Breaking Black Bear
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For the first time in over three decades, Louisiana reopened its black bear hunting season, and one lucky hunter made history.Deron Santiny, a Purple Heart recipient and Army veteran, bagged a massive 696-pound black bear, potentially setting a new state record. The hunt,part of a special three-week season,marked a significant milestone in the state’s conservation efforts.
A Rare Possibility for Veterans
The hunt was made possible through a lottery system, with one tag allocated to the Healing road Foundation, an organization dedicated to helping veterans heal through outdoor experiences.Santiny, a 54-year-old veteran, was thrilled to receive the call. “It was an incredible opportunity,” he said.”I couldn’t wait to get started.”
Before heading into the field, Santiny completed the state’s mandatory bear-hunting course. The training covered everything from bear anatomy and food safety to ethical hunting practices. “It was about understanding the bear’s habitat, behavior, and how to hunt them responsibly,” Santiny explained. “It’s not like hunting deer or elk. You have to know exactly where to aim.”
The Hunt of a Lifetime
on the morning of December 17, Santiny set out with his.375 Winchester rifle, determined to make the most of his chance. after a long day of spotting only deer, he decided to switch locations for the evening. Perched on an 18-foot ladder stand, he waited patiently.Just before 5 p.m., his patience paid off.
“He came out of the woods like a Volkswagen Beetle—huge and unmistakable,” Santiny recalled. ”I stayed calm, waited for the right moment, and when he lowered his head, I took the shot. The rest is history.”
At 696 pounds, Santiny’s bear is a remarkable specimen. According to the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries (LDWF), the average louisiana black bear weighs between 450 and 500 pounds. This makes Santiny’s catch a true standout.
Conservation Success Story
The Louisiana black bear was once on the brink of extinction, but thanks to decades of conservation efforts, the species has made a remarkable recovery. “We began working to restore the Louisiana black bear population over 30 years ago,” said LDWF Secretary Madison Sheahan. “This year’s hunt is a testament to the success of those efforts and the importance of collaborative conservation.”
During the three-week season, a total of 10 bears—eight males and two females—where harvested. Santiny’s bear, however, stands out as the largest. After a mandatory 60-day waiting period, the bear will be officially scored by the Boone and Crockett Club, which ranks records based on skull size rather than weight.
Investing in the Future
Proceeds from the bear hunting lottery and license fees will be reinvested into the Louisiana Black Bear Program. These funds will support critical conservation efforts, including habitat restoration, population monitoring, and public education. “It’s about ensuring future generations can enjoy this incredible species,” Sheahan added.
For Santiny, the hunt was more than just a personal achievement. “It’s a reminder of how far we’ve come in protecting these animals,” he said. “I’m honored to be part of this historic moment.”
How has Deron Santiny’s experience as a veteran informed his approach to hunting and conservation?
Interview with Deron Santiny: Army Veteran and Record-Breaking Black Bear Hunter
Archyde News: Deron, thank you for joining us today. Your recent achievement of harvesting a 696-pound black bear in Louisiana has captured the attention of hunters and conservationists alike. can you tell us about the moment you realized the magnitude of your catch?
Deron Santiny: Thank you for having me. It’s hard to put into words, honestly. When I first saw the bear, I knew it was big, but I didn’t fully grasp just how massive it was until we got it back to camp. the scale read 696 pounds,and it hit me—this wasn’t just a hunt; it was a historic moment. I felt a mix of pride, gratitude, and humility. It’s not every day you get to be part of something like this.
Archyde News: This hunt was part of Louisiana’s first black bear hunting season in over 35 years. What does it mean to you to have been part of such a meaningful event?
Deron Santiny: It’s an remarkable honor. The fact that Louisiana reopened the season after decades of conservation efforts shows how far we’ve come in protecting this species. I’ve always believed in the importance of responsible hunting, and this hunt was a perfect example of how we can balance conservation with enduring practices. It’s a testament to the hard work of wildlife advocates, landowners, and the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries.
Archyde News: You’ve described hunting as more than just a hobby—it’s a lifeline for you. Can you elaborate on how hunting has impacted your life, especially as a veteran?
Deron Santiny: Absolutely. Hunting has been a form of therapy for me. After my time in Iraq, I struggled with the transition back to civilian life. Hunting gave me a sense of purpose and peace. Being out in nature, tracking animals, and immersing myself in the wilderness helped me reconnect with myself and the world around me. It’s not just about the hunt; it’s about the journey, the connection to the land, and the respect for the animals we pursue.
Archyde News: This hunt was made possible by a special permit system that prioritized private landowners. How did you secure your permit, and what role did the landowners play in your success?
deron Santiny: I was fortunate to have a strong relationship with a landowner who has been instrumental in the recovery of the black bear population. These landowners have worked tirelessly to restore habitats and create safe spaces for the bears to thrive. Without their efforts, this hunt wouldn’t have been possible. Securing the permit was a combination of luck, timing, and the trust I’ve built with the hunting community over the years.
Archyde News: You’ve mentioned that this hunt was about more than just the trophy. Can you share what this experience taught you about the balance of nature and humanity’s role in preserving it?
Deron Santiny: Definitely. This hunt reinforced the idea that we’re part of a larger ecosystem. As hunters, we have a responsibility to respect and protect the natural world. The black bear’s recovery is a perfect example of what can happen when humans and nature work together.It’s not about dominating the environment; it’s about understanding our place within it and ensuring that future generations can enjoy the same experiences we do.
Archyde News: What message would you like to share with other veterans who might be struggling or looking for a way to reconnect with life after service?
Deron Santiny: I’d tell them to find something that grounds them. For me, it was hunting, but it could be anything—fishing, hiking, gardening, or even volunteering.The key is to find an activity that brings you peace and helps you feel connected to something greater than yourself. And don’t be afraid to reach out for support. There are so many organizations and communities out there ready to help veterans like us.
Archyde News: what’s next for you? Do you have any other hunting goals or conservation projects on the horizon?
Deron Santiny: I’m always looking for new challenges, but my focus right now is on giving back.I want to use my platform to advocate for conservation and support programs that help veterans through outdoor activities. I’m also working on a project to document my hunting experiences and share the lessons I’ve learned along the way.It’s my way of paying it forward and ensuring that the legacy of responsible hunting continues.
archyde News: Deron, thank you for sharing your story with us. Your journey is truly inspiring, and we wish you all the best in your future endeavors.
Deron Santiny: thank you. it’s been a pleasure.
